What You'll Need
Bulgaria follows EU pet travel rules. Here's what's required for your dog or cat to enter smoothly.
If your pet already holds an EU-issued pet passport, it remains valid for entry into Bulgaria. Otherwise, your UK vet can issue an Animal Health Certificate within 10 days of travel, signed off after a microchip and rabies check.
Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before arrival in Bulgaria. Keep the vaccination record with your passport or AHC.
A compliant ISO-standard microchip is required and must be implanted before (or on the same day as) the rabies vaccination for the vaccination to count toward travel.
Tapeworm treatment is not required for entry into Bulgaria from the UK or Ireland, but it is required for the return journey — administered by a vet 24–120 hours before you cross back into the UK or Ireland.
Rules can change at short notice. Always confirm with your vet and the official portals (gov.uk, gov.ie) before you travel. This guide is a general overview, not a substitute for professional advice.
Getting There
Choose the option that suits your pet's temperament and your travel style.
Direct or connecting flights from the UK & Ireland to Sofia (SOF) or Burgas (BOJ) via airlines that accept pets in cabin or cargo. The fastest option, ideal for pets comfortable with flying.
Take the ferry from the UK or Ireland to France, then drive through Europe to Bulgaria. A popular choice for nervous flyers and owners with multiple pets or lots of gear.