Official Import Rules
Cyprus follows EU pet regulations. From EU countries: EU Pet Passport with ISO microchip and current rabies vaccination. From listed third countries: health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination. From non-listed third countries: FAVN titer test with 3-month wait. Note: Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has separate entry rules and is not covered by EU regulations. Entry through Larnaca (LCA) or Paphos (PFO) airports.
Regulatory Update — April 2026
The EU's legacy pet movement regulation (No 576/2013) transitions to the new Animal Health Law framework on 21 April 2026. Core requirements remain unchanged — microchip, rabies vaccination, EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate — but border authorities are now enforcing stricter document checking. In particular, the microchip-before-vaccination sequencing rule is being scrutinised more carefully: if your cat's rabies vaccination was administered before the microchip was implanted, that vaccination is invalid for EU entry. Ensure all documents are complete, correctly sequenced, and that microchip numbers match across every certificate before travelling.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination (21-day wait)
EU Pet Passport or third-country veterinary certificate
Tapeworm treatment NOT required for cats
Arrive at Larnaca (LCA) or Paphos (PFO) airport
Preparation Checklist
4 weeks before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
None for EU/listed countries
City & Housing Tips
Limassol, Paphos, Nicosia, and Larnaca are popular with expats, especially British retirees. Cyprus has a massive cat population — some estimates suggest more cats than people. The island is extremely cat-friendly with active rescue organizations.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care across the island. Many vets speak English due to the large British community. Costs are moderate. Tick-borne diseases are prevalent — year-round prevention essential. Several cat rescue charities operate island-wide.
Find Vets in CyprusExit Rules — Leaving Cyprus
EU Pet Passport for EU travel. Health certificate from an Official Veterinarian for non-EU destinations. The Veterinary Services of the Ministry of Agriculture endorse export documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Possibly. Some estimates suggest 1.5 million cats on an island of 1.2 million people. Cats are everywhere and are generally well-tolerated and fed by locals.
Yes, especially in Limassol and Paphos where the British expat community is large. Most vets speak English fluently.
Yes. Cyprus has significant tick populations. Year-round flea and tick prevention is essential. Discuss preventive treatments with your vet upon arrival.
Community Tips
Start the paperwork at least 4–6 months before your travel date. Airline pet policies change frequently — always confirm directly with your carrier close to departure.
Have you moved to Cyprus with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.