Pet Import Requirements – UK

If you are planning to bring your cat or dog into the UK, careful preparation is essential to ensure a smooth, compliant, and stress-free arrival. SkyPaws UK provides guidance and full support for customs clearance, documentation, and onward transport within mainland Great Britain.

 
🐾 Flight Booking & Export Agent
To arrange travel to the UK, you must contact a pet shipping agent in your country of origin.
A list of IPATA-approved agents can be found here: IPATA Pet Shippers
These agents will assist with booking the flight and completing the necessary paperwork for UK entry.
 
🧾 Customs Clearance on Arrival
Cats and dogs arriving at London Heathrow or London Gatwick must undergo customs clearance.
SkyPaws UK can manage customs clearance and onward road transport within mainland GB if required.
We also offer a complimentary documentation pre-checking service to verify your pet’s compliance with UK non-quarantine entry requirements.

Documents must be submitted at least 72 working hours prior to arrival.
While we advise on any errors found, it remains the legal responsibility of the owner and export agent to ensure all paperwork is correct.
 
✅ SkyPaws UK Services Include
Advisory document pre-checking service
Collection from aircraft
Customs clearance processing
Associated airport/cargo handling fees
Delivery to your residence in mainland GB (optional)
 
💷 Import VAT & Relief
Import VAT is payable on pets arriving in the UK.
In some cases, Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief may apply:

Apply via GOV.UK 
Applications typically take 10–14 days, so start well in advance of your shipment.
If ToR relief is refused, VAT will be due on your pet’s declared value and freight costs.
For pets originally exported from the UK within the last 3 years, Returned Goods Relief may apply:

Proof required: original export AWB (air waybill), health certificate, or UK clinical history, along with proof of UK residency.
 
🌏 Ready to Plan Your Pet’s Return to the UK?
SkyPaws UK ensures your pet’s arrival into the UK is smooth, compliant, and stress-free. From pre-flight documentation checks to customs clearance and delivery to your doorstep, our expert team manages every detail.

📅 Contact us today for a quote and personalised advice:

📧 [email protected]
📞 +44 1202 980200
💬 WhatsApp: +44 7798 772441