Latest for 2026! EU and South Korea Pet Travel Rules and Key Points for Safe Transport

Introduction.

Did you know that country-specific rules and procedures for traveling abroad with pets are changing year by year: new pet travel rules will be enforced in the EU from April 2026, and problems related to South Korea's import requirements are increasing. This article details the latest international pet travel rules and key points for transporting pets safely. We also introduce PetAir JPN's services that support comfortable overseas travel for pets, so please take a look.

Key points of the new EU Pet Travel Regulation (effective April 22, 2026)

The EU has revamped its pet migration system since 2013, with new regulations coming into effect on April 22, 2026. The major features are as follows.

• Stricter health certifications: The importance of a health certificate issued by a veterinarian is greatly increased and must certify that no rabies has occurred within 30 days prior to travel.
• Promotion of digitizationThe EU will establish an EU-wide traceability system and a digital management system for pet information.
• Tighter control of immigration from outside the EUPreparation is essential, especially as strict checks are made on pets entering the country from outside the EU.

These changes will enhance the health management and transportation safety of pets, and PetAir JPN will provide support for document preparation and quarantine compliance based on the latest regulations to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Issues and Measures for Korean Pet Imports

Over the past year, more than 70 pets have failed to meet Korea's import requirements, resulting in extended quarantine, unexpected cost incursions, and an increasing number of cases of repatriation measures to the United States. The main problems are as follows

• Incomplete documentation submitted: Many of the documents and health certificates required for importation are incomplete.
• Strict housing policy: Housing conditions in South Korea are affecting pet imports.
• Limited quarantine facilitiesIn some cases: lack of quarantine space forces long stays.

PetAir JPN's staff, who are well versed in Korean regulations, will assist you with everything from document preparation to quarantine procedures, so you can rest assured that you are in good hands.

Trends in International Pet Travel and the Importance of Secure Transportation

According to Starwood Pet Travel's 2026 Global Pet Travel Data, international pet shipments amount to more than 40,000 per year, with popular destinations being the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, and Germany. This is due to the fact that pets have become an integral part of the migration process as members of the family.

Under these circumstances, safe and comfortable transportation of pets is becoming increasingly important. In addition to stress reduction and proper health care during transportation, it is essential to accurately understand the regulations of the destination country and be fully prepared.

PetAir JPN proposes transportation plans tailored to the characteristics of pets based on our extensive experience. We also collaborate with veterinarians and comply with the latest regulations to ensure the safety of pets and the peace of mind of pet owners as our first priority.

Summary: Ensuring Successful Pet Overseas Travel in 2026 and Beyond

New EU regulations and Korea's strict import requirements, which will take effect in April 2026, will have a significant impact on pets traveling abroad. It is important to keep up to date with the latest information, prepare health certificates and check the required documents.

PetAir JPN, as a professional international pet shipping company, ensures safe and comfortable transportation of your pets in compliance with all regulations. We will do our utmost to support your precious family member's overseas travel.

If you are considering overseas travel for your pet, we recommend that you consult with us as soon as possible.