Learn · updated 2026-10-23
Why the microchip must go in before the rabies vaccine
For the UK, the EU, the USA and New Zealand, a rabies vaccine given before the microchip does not count for travel. If that happened, your dog needs to be vaccinated again after chipping, and the waiting periods restart.
What the rules say
| Destination | Rule |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Pets must be microchipped before their rabies vaccination |
| European Union | The vaccine date must not be earlier than the microchip date |
| United States | Microchip implanted before the rabies vaccine, or the vaccine is invalid |
| New Zealand | Microchip number verified and recorded at each vaccination and test |
How to check your dog
- Find the microchip implant date and the rabies vaccination date on your vet records.
- Check the microchip number on the vaccine record matches the chip.
- If the vaccine came first, ask your vet to revaccinate now and count the waiting periods from the new date.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Bringing your pet to Great Britain
- European Commission: Bringing a pet into the EU from a non-EU country
- CDC: Foreign-vaccinated dogs from high-risk countries
- MPI: Import Health Standard Cats and Dogs 2026
Rules change. Confirm your plan with your vet and the destination authority before booking.