Moving abroad with a pet

What happens to your US pet insurance

Many US pet insurance policies only cover care received in the US, sometimes with short trips to Canada. Once you've moved abroad, your policy may stop paying claims. Read the policy's territory section and ask the insurer what happens when you move.

A policy in your new country will usually be new underwriting, so any condition your pet already has is likely to be excluded as pre-existing. Keep complete vet records to share with a new insurer.

Before you go

• Check your destination's entry rules: vaccines, microchip standard, health certificates, blood tests and waiting periods.
• Book vet appointments early. Some requirements take weeks or months.
• Get copies of all medical records and vaccination certificates.
• Ask your US insurer about coverage during travel and after the move.

Bringing a dog back to the US

Under current CDC rules, every dog entering or returning to the US needs a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Dogs from dog-rabies-free or low-risk countries must also appear healthy, have a microchip and be at least 6 months old. Dogs that have been in high-risk countries need extra rabies vaccination documentation. Check the CDC's site before you travel; the rules have changed in recent years.