Moving to Italy with Pets: Rules, Tips and Hidden Costs

Relocating to Italy is a dream for many high-net-worth individuals and expats. But what happens when you're not moving alone—when your pet is part of the journey? Bringing a cat, dog, or even a more exotic companion into Italy can be seamless, but only if you understand the legal requirements, logistics, and hidden costs involved. This article explores everything you need to know if you're planning a move to Italy with your furry (or feathered) friend.

1. Legal Requirements for Pet Entry into Italy

Italy follows the European Union’s regulations on pet movement. If you're arriving from another EU country, the process is relatively simple. However, if you're coming from a non-EU nation—including the US, UK, or Switzerland—additional requirements apply.

Your pet must:

• Be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip

• Be vaccinated against rabies (at least 21 days prior to travel)

• Have a valid veterinary certificate or EU Pet Passport

For pets from high-risk rabies countries, a rabies antibody titre test (blood test) is mandatory and must be done at least three months before travel.

2. Logistics: Flights, Quarantine and Customs

Pets arriving from most countries do not require quarantine if all paperwork is in order. Still, Italy has strict customs checks upon arrival.

You’ll need to enter the country via a Border Inspection Post (BIP) that is designated to handle pet arrivals. Major airports like Milan Malpensa, Rome Fiumicino, and Venice Marco Polo are BIP-approved.

Booking a direct flight is highly recommended. Layovers in countries with different regulations can complicate the entry process or invalidate your documentation. Always check with your airline for specific transport rules—especially regarding in-cabin vs. cargo options for your pet.

3. Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodation

While urban areas like Milan, Rome, and Florence are increasingly pet-friendly, it's not a given. Some landlords still hesitate to rent to pet owners, especially when it comes to larger dogs or multiple animals.

Your best bet is to:

• Work with relocation agents who understand pet-related needs

• Prioritize villas, ground-floor apartments, or homes with private gardens

• Look for listings that explicitly mention “pet-friendly” or “animali ammessi”

In more rural or high-end areas like Lake Como or Tuscany, landlords are often more accommodating—especially if you’re renting long-term or buying property.

4. Everyday Life with Pets in Italy

Italian cities are gradually becoming more welcoming to animals, but cultural differences remain. Dogs are generally allowed in outdoor restaurants, parks, and many public transport systems (if leashed and muzzled), but cats and exotic animals might raise eyebrows.

Veterinary care in Italy is of high quality, but availability varies by region. Urban centers boast 24-hour clinics and English-speaking vets, while rural areas may have fewer options.

Don’t forget to register your dog with the local Anagrafe Canina (dog registry) within 15 days of arrival. This is mandatory and ensures your pet is recognized under Italian law.

5. Unexpected Costs You Might Not Expect

Bringing your pet to Italy isn’t cheap—and not just because of flights and documentation. Here are a few costs that often catch expats by surprise:

• Translation of vet certificates (official translation might be required)

• Pet shipping services for non-cabin animals (can exceed €1,000)

• Import taxes if your pet’s documents are incomplete

• Higher deposits or fees for pet-friendly rentals

• Travel insurance or health coverage for your pet

In addition, if you’re relocating via private jet or yacht—as many HNWIs do—specific rules apply. Private aviation requires advanced notification to Italian authorities, and luxury marinas may have biosecurity checks that include pets.

6. Relocating with Exotic Animals or Multiple Pets

Italy allows exotic pets (birds, reptiles, ferrets), but you'll need to verify that your animal isn’t on the restricted species list. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) permits may be required.

Bringing more than five pets usually shifts your case from “non-commercial movement” to commercial transport, even if all animals are your own. This changes the requirements dramatically, often requiring an import license and longer processing times.

Conclusion: Planning Ahead Is Key

Relocating to Italy with your pet can be a smooth experience—provided you plan ahead and anticipate the nuances of Italian bureaucracy and culture. The earlier you start, the better. Some processes, like the rabies titre test, require a 3-4 month lead time. Don't wait until the last minute.

Whether you're bringing a teacup poodle to Milan or moving with your Great Dane to the Tuscan hills, having the right advisors—relocation experts, specialized vets, and legal consultants—can make all the difference.

Thinking of Moving to Italy with Your Pet?

We’ve helped dozens of families relocate to Italy—pets included. At Knotted, we combine legal expertise, real estate support, and personalized planning to ensure your transition is smooth, luxurious, and stress-free.

📧 Contact us at: info@knotted.ch

📱 WhatsApp us: +41 76 771 30 22

Let us handle the paperwork, so you can focus on living la dolce vita—with your best friend by your side.