If you’re planning a move to Portugal and wondering how your furry friend fits into the picture, you’re not alone. Many expats relocate with pets, and while Portugal is generally pet-friendly, there are important rules and cultural norms to be aware of. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bringing and living with pets in Portugal—from travel requirements to housing logistics.
Portugal Is a Pet-Friendly Country
The good news is that Portugal is a very pet-friendly country. You’ll often see locals walking dogs—and occasionally even cats—on the street. Pets are common, loved, and rarely seen as a nuisance. But like any country, there are practical rules and limitations, especially when it comes to renting with pets and bringing them through customs.
Moving With Pets: Requirements and Restrictions
Before your pet can join you in Portugal, you’ll need to ensure they meet the country’s entry and health regulations.
Here’s what you should know:
- You can bring up to five pets per person, though airlines often limit it to two per passenger.
- Pets must be at least 12 weeks old and not pregnant.
- You must arrive within 5 days of your pet’s arrival, unless you’re a visa holder with a 6-month customs waiver.
- Your pet must have:
- A valid rabies vaccination (with a 21-day wait period if it’s a booster).
- A microchip that complies with ISO standards.
- A health certificate from a licensed vet in your home country, valid for only 10 days before travel.
- If arriving from an unlisted country, a blood test may also be required.
Small pets are generally easier to transport by air. Larger pets can be more challenging due to airline restrictions, so you might consider specialized pet relocation services. Savvy Cat Realty is currently partnering with a provider for these cases and has had successful results so far.
Don’t Bring Pets Immediately: Settle First
One major tip: don’t bring your pet during your initial move or scouting trip.
Moving is stressful enough without worrying about your pet’s well-being in an unfinished home. It’s common for rental homes to be missing key items on move-in day, like furniture or appliances, which makes it harder for your pet to feel comfortable.
Instead, we recommend:
- Arriving alone first to secure housing.
- Ordering any pet supplies in advance—there are plenty of online and physical pet stores across Portugal.
- Bringing your pet once your new home is fully set up and livable.
This approach minimizes stress for both you and your animal companion.
Renting With Pets in Portugal
Here’s where things get tricky.
While it’s technically not legal to ban pets in rental properties, many landlords still prefer to avoid them—especially larger breeds. Pets are seen as a potential risk for damage to flooring or furniture.
If you’re renting with pets:
- Be upfront with landlords from the start.
- Look for pet-friendly listings or landlords open to negotiation.
- Consider offering a pet damage deposit to ease the landlord’s concerns.
In Portugal, most rentals require three months’ worth of payments upfront:
- First month’s rent
- Security deposit
- Last month’s rent
But in cases involving pets, it’s not uncommon for landlords to ask for 6 to 12 months upfront, despite this being discouraged legally. While not ideal, some pet owners agree to these terms for peace of mind and stability.
Buying With Pets? No Restrictions
If you’re planning to buy a home, you’re in luck.
There are no legal restrictions on keeping pets in owned properties. Unlike in countries with strict homeowners’ associations, Portugal allows homeowners to keep as many pets as they want, provided they’re cared for properly and not causing disturbances.
You won’t have to worry about condo boards, pet size limits, or approval letters. Once the home is yours, it’s your space—pets included.
Exotic Pets: Special Considerations
If your pet is something more exotic—like a reptile or bird—you’ll need to check both import regulations and housing requirements in advance. Transporting exotic animals can involve stricter rules and longer preparation times, so plan accordingly.
Always prioritize your pet’s well-being and understand that relocation is a lifelong commitment. If you prepare well, your pet can thrive in Portugal just like you.
Final Thoughts
Portugal is a fantastic country for pet lovers, but moving with animals takes careful planning. From travel documentation to housing challenges, being proactive makes all the difference.
At Savvy Cat Realty, we offer expert relocation services that support every step of your move—including guidance on pet relocation, renting, or buying.
Got questions? Contact us directly at contact@savvycatrealty.com
And if this article helped you, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for weekly tips on moving to Portugal, lifestyle guides, and town spotlights.
