Equestrian Passport Rules After Brexit: 2025 Update

Did you know that horse passport rules UK underwent a complete overhaul since Brexit came into effect? As of January 2021, every single horse movement between the UK and European Union requires extensive customs formalities and documentation.

This significant change has created challenges for the equestrian industry, which generates over €50 billion annually and employs more than 500,000 people across Europe. Additionally, all horses leaving the UK to enter the EU now require an Export Health Certificate that lasts only 10 days and must be signed by an Official Veterinarian. Furthermore, these certificates must be accompanied by veterinary checks at the first point of entry into EU territory.

If you’re a horse owner planning to travel with your equine companion in 2025, understanding these post-Brexit regulations is crucial. This guide will walk you through the updated horse passport requirements, health compliance standards, and new travel rules you need to know to ensure smooth passage for your horse across European borders.

Post-Brexit Passport Updates and Ownership Changes

After Brexit, updating your horse’s passport and recording ownership changes require strict adherence to new regulations. The key change involves how and when you must update these vital documents.

When purchasing a horse, you must notify the Passport Issuing Organisation (PIO) within 30 days of the transfer. This is a legal requirement in England with penalties for non-compliance. You’ll need to provide your name, address and contact number – even if you’re only possessing the equine for a short period, such as dealers.

Understanding Legal Duties, PIO Processes, and Irish Passport Implications

• Contact the original PIO that issued the passport whenever possible. However, under current regulations, you may approach any UK-approved PIO if they’re willing to handle the change.
• The physical passport must typically be sent to the PIO for updating, as most cannot process changes online. The cost varies between organisations.
• The British Horse Society charges £17.50 per passport (£14.50 for registered charities), while some PIOs offer online services that streamline the process.
• Conversely, Irish passport complications have emerged following Brexit. Previously, owners of Irish-bred horses in the UK could send passports to Irish PIOs, but this changed when European Breeding Regulation ceased applying to the UK.
• Although Republic of Ireland PIOs can still process certain updates (ownership, microchip details, name changes), only those with UK-approved EU extended breeding programmes can issue new or duplicate passports – currently limited to the Kerry Bog Pony Cooperative Society.
• For lost or damaged passports, you must apply for a duplicate from the original issuing PIO. This application requires verification by a vet who must complete a silhouette drawing. Importantly, if the original passport reappears after a duplicate is issued, both must be returned to the PIO.
• Remember that all horses in England, Wales and Scotland must be microchipped by law. If your passport was issued before microchipping became mandatory, you must update your PIO with this information so they can register it on the Central Equine Database.

Health and Safety Compliance for EU Travel

Health documentation represents the cornerstone of equine movement between the UK and EU post-Brexit. All horses entering European Union territory undergo mandatory veterinary checks at the first point of entry, with no exceptions — regardless of whether your horse is travelling for a brief competition or permanent relocation.

Before travel, your horse must be tested for equine infectious anaemia within 90 days if registered with an international sporting body or EU-recognised UK Studbook and staying less than 90 days. Otherwise, testing must occur within 30 days of travel. Uncastrated male equines older than 180 days additionally require equine viral arteritis testing unless they meet specific vaccination requirements.

Strict residency requirements must also be met. Registered horses need 40 days on a holding in Great Britain, the EU, Northern Ireland, or a country with similar health status before export. Moreover, your horse must remain under veterinary supervision for 30 days prior to travel.

The Export Health Certificate (EHC) forms the most essential document, replacing previous Intra-Trade Animal Health Certificates. This must be completed via the EHCO system and signed by an Official Veterinarian. As of July 31, 2024, attestations previously referring to “veterinary supervision” now specifically require “official veterinary supervision”.

Your horse must enter through an approved Border Control Post where it will undergo documentary, identity and physical checks. Pre-notification is mandatory through TRACES (TRAde Control and Expert System), which generates a Common Health Entry Document (CHED).

Regarding welfare during transport, remember that horses must receive liquid and, if necessary, feed every eight hours during journeys. Current EU regulations allow domestic equines to travel for a maximum of 24 hours, though welfare organisations recommend limiting journeys to 9-12 hours based on scientific evidence.

Always carry the original passport during transport — photocopies are not accepted. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant delays, fines, or your horse being refused entry altogether.

Adapting to New Travel and Trade Rules

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