Traveling internationally with an emotional support animal in 2025 is no longer as simple as booking a flight and showing a letter. The world has changed since emotional support animals were widely accepted on flights, and today, every journey begins with a new kind of preparation. This isn’t just about paperwork or policies; it’s about understanding a shared responsibility between you, your animal, and the places you’re about to explore together.
Beneath all the forms and rules lies something deeper: the chance to travel confidently and compassionately, while respecting how countries and airlines are redefining animal travel for the modern age.
Key Takeaways
- ESA international travel now follows stricter airline and country rules, requiring travelers to prepare documentation early and verify policies for every segment of the trip.
- Most airlines classify an emotional support animal as a pet, which means cabin eligibility depends on size, carrier requirements, and route-specific restrictions.
- Destination-specific ESA regulations vary widely, so checking import laws, quarantine rules, and breed limitations helps prevent surprises at customs.
- Proper ESA paperwork remains essential, including health certificates, vaccination records, microchips, and any required airline or country forms.
- Careful planning supports safer ESA travel, from training and acclimating the animal to selecting the right carrier and understanding airport procedures.
Understanding ESA Travel in 2025
An emotional support animal (ESA) provides therapeutic comfort through companionship. Unlike service animals, ESAs aren’t trained to perform specific tasks; they support emotional and psychological well-being. However, since the U.S. Department of Transportation’s 2021 ruling, ESAs are no longer recognized as service animals under federal law. That shift reshaped how airlines and countries view them today. In 2025, most major airlines now treat ESAs as pets rather than special assistance animals, especially for international travel. Still, their importance to travelers hasn’t diminished; it just means the way we prepare for the journey has evolved.
Key Differences Between ESAs and Service Animals
The distinction between Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) and Service Animals shapes how air travel rules apply.
- Service Animals: Typically, they are trained to perform specific tasks that assist individuals with disabilities. These animals enjoy legal protections under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).
- Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Offer comfort and companionship but are not trained to carry out specialized tasks. Airlines often set their own travel limitations for ESAs.
Common Misconception: Many travelers assume a psychiatric service dog and an ESA serve the same role. In reality, only a trained service dog qualifies as a medical assistance animal. Understanding this difference lays the groundwork for smoother, compliant international travel.
Why International ESA Travel Became More Complicated
The combination of post-COVID restrictions, updated U.S. DOT classifications, and varied international regulations has created a complex web of travel requirements. Airlines tightened their documentation standards after years of misuse and false ESA claims, while many countries aligned with stricter biosecurity measures. For travelers, this means more preparation, but also more predictable travel experiences for those who comply. The good news? Once you understand the system, you can still travel globally with your ESA; it just requires strategy and awareness.
Before You Book: The Research & Planning Stage
Step 1: Verify Your Destination’s ESA Laws
Start with your destination country’s stance on emotional support animals. Some countries, like Canada and Mexico, may allow entry with proper documentation, while others, including the UK, Australia, and Singapore, have strict quarantine or outright bans. Always contact the destination’s embassy or consulate directly for up-to-date information. Their animal import offices provide detailed instructions about required vaccinations, permits, or quarantine durations. Think of it as your first checkpoint to avoid heartbreak at customs.
Step 2: Confirm Your Airline’s ESA Policy
Airline rules can be more restrictive than country laws. Carriers like Delta, United, and Lufthansa no longer accept ESAs as distinct from pets, meaning your companion must meet pet travel criteria, carrier size, cabin weight limit, and health certification. Some international airlines, like Volaris or select EU-based carriers, may still accommodate ESAs under specific routes. Always check for submission deadlines: many require behavioral forms or veterinary documents 48–96 hours before departure. Knowing this in advance protects you from last-minute denials at the gate.
Step 3: Understand Connecting Flights & Transit Country Rules
Even a short layover can complicate your journey. Some transit countries prohibit animal entry altogether, even if your ESA never leaves the aircraft. Switching airlines mid-route may also reset your compliance requirements, forcing you to present new documentation. Review each segment of your trip carefully, and when in doubt, contact both airlines’ animal travel departments. Transit planning is not just logistics, it’s peace of mind.
Step 4: Factor in Breed and Species Restrictions
Certain dog breeds, like Pit Bulls or Staffordshire Terriers, face restrictions in countries such as the UK or France, while others ban specific species outright. Airlines may also have safety-based embargoes for snub-nosed breeds like pugs and bulldogs due to respiratory risks. Always cross-check with both airline and destination lists before booking. This step may feel tedious, but it prevents potential heartbreak at the airport.
Documentation & Health Requirements
Essential ESA Documents You’ll Need
Preparation begins with paperwork, but the goal is more than checking boxes. It is about building a clear record that shows your animal is healthy, identified, and approved for international travel.
Here are the core documents you need:
- ESA Letter: Issued by a licensed mental health professional, this establishes your need for an emotional support animal.
- Veterinary Health Certificate: Confirms your ESA is healthy, fit for travel, and free of contagious diseases.
- Vaccination Records: Most countries require proof of rabies and distemper vaccines.
- ISO‑Compliant Microchip: Used for identification during customs and health inspections.
- Import or Export Permits: Some countries require additional authorization before your ESA can enter.
Each of these documents serves a purpose, creating a foundation of trust between you, your companion, and the authorities who will review your entry.
Airline-Specific Forms and Deadlines
Airlines often request their own documentation, separate from general travel papers. These may include ESA acknowledgment forms, proof of behavior, or veterinarian attestations. Many deadlines close within 72 hours before departure, so schedule vet visits accordingly. Even though the U.S. DOT’s Service Animal Air Transportation Form primarily applies to service dogs, it serves as a useful comparison point for ensuring your paperwork meets international expectations.
Country-Specific Entry Documents
Each country manages pet import differently. The UK uses the DEFRA pet travel form, the EU requires an Animal Health Certificate, and Japan, Australia, and parts of the EU mandate rabies antibody titer testing. Some nations, like New Zealand, have quarantine exemptions for animals meeting specific health standards. Knowing your destination’s system early saves you both time and stress later.
Tips for Smooth Paperwork Processing
Print two copies of every document so you always have a backup on hand. Keep a system that is both organized and easy to access. Here are smart ways to manage your paperwork:
- Bring two physical copies of every form, keeping one for airport staff and the other for customs.
- Store digital backups on your phone and in cloud storage so nothing gets lost in transit.
- Save your veterinarian’s and mental health professional’s contact details in case any authority requests verification.
- Check that all forms match the language and formatting rules of the destination country before submission.
A few extra hours spent preparing these small details can prevent weeks of delays, unexpected quarantine, or confusion during inspection.
Preparing Your ESA for International Travel
Visit the Vet Before Departure
Your veterinarian is your best ally. Schedule a pre-travel checkup to confirm your animal’s health, discuss stress management strategies, and ensure preventive treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworm are up to date. If your ESA experiences anxiety, your vet can recommend safe calming aids or prescription solutions. Healthy animals handle long journeys far better than those traveling under stress or discomfort.
Get an Airline-Approved Carrier or Crate
Each airline adheres to IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards for animal travel. Cabin carriers must fit beneath your seat while offering adequate ventilation and space for movement. If your ESA must travel in cargo, choose a sturdy, ventilated crate that exceeds minimal size guidelines for comfort. Introduce the carrier weeks in advance so your ESA associates it with safety, not confinement.
Train and Desensitize Your ESA
Travel exposes animals to new stimuli, loud sounds, security lines, strangers, and long waits. Gradually desensitize your ESA by visiting busy environments or simulating airport conditions at home. Reward calm behavior and teach them to remain settled in small spaces. This training not only ensures compliance but protects your animal’s well-being during the flight.
Consider Travel Insurance & Health Coverage
Look into specialized pet travel insurance that covers international medical emergencies, quarantine fees, or airline delays. Confirm your policy includes overseas veterinary access. Emergencies abroad can be expensive and emotionally draining, and insurance offers both financial protection and reassurance.
At the Airport & During the Flight
Check-In Procedures
Arrive early and go directly to the service or special-assistance desk. Present your documents neatly organized in a folder. Airline staff may verify health forms, vaccination records, and carrier size. If staff members appear uncertain, remain calm; policy confusion happens often. Politely request a supervisor or printed policy reference if needed. Patience is key; your composure sets the tone for your ESA’s behavior too.
Passing Through Security
Security screenings can unsettle animals. You’ll likely carry your ESA through the metal detector while their carrier passes through the X-ray machine separately. Remove any harness or accessories only when instructed. In foreign airports, customs agents may scan microchips or inspect documents again; this is normal protocol, not a problem. Speak softly to your ESA throughout the process to reinforce calm.
Onboard the Aircraft
Your ESA should stay beneath the seat or on your lap if the airline allows and the animal fits comfortably. Avoid blocking aisles or exits. During takeoff and landing, remain still, as sudden noises can cause anxiety. For long flights, carry a collapsible water bowl, small absorbent pads, and calming treats. Many animals sense your emotions; if you stay relaxed, they will too.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common travel issues happen when travelers rush through the process. Rushed preparation can lead to small but serious mistakes, such as:
- Missing important forms or deadlines that airlines strictly enforce.
- Using an oversized carrier that won’t fit beneath the seat.
- Assuming your ESA will be automatically accepted on connecting or international routes.
Always double-check your destination’s entry policy before departure. Never sedate your animal unless specifically instructed by your veterinarian, and avoid feeding them heavily right before the flight. Every thoughtful step, from documentation to comfort, helps create a smoother and safer journey for both you and your ESA.
Arrival, Customs, and Entry Procedures
Clearing Customs with an ESA
Upon landing, head directly to the designated animal inspection area. Officers may scan your ESA’s microchip and review vaccination documents. Some countries perform a brief health exam to verify compliance. Stay calm and courteous; customs agents often appreciate well-prepared travelers. If issues arise, your documentation will speak for itself.
Quarantine & Post-Arrival Rules
In destinations like Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, animals often undergo mandatory quarantine. The experience can be emotional, but it’s temporary and designed to protect native wildlife. Research quarantine facilities ahead of time to select those with comfortable, reputable conditions. Some even allow owner visitation or virtual check-ins.
Local Laws and Restrictions Abroad
Once you clear customs, research local laws about leashes, muzzles, and animal-free zones. Cities like Paris or Tokyo may have different pet transport rules for trains or taxis. Finding a veterinarian nearby provides peace of mind, and identifying parks or animal-friendly areas ensures your ESA continues to thrive while abroad.
Country-Specific Highlights for 2025
ESA Entry Rules by Region
North America: Canada and Mexico have more complex ESA rules that vary by airline. Some carriers may still allow ESAs, while others require them to travel as regular pets in-cabin, checked, or in cargo. Many North American airlines now officially ban ESAs from traveling in the cabin, recognizing only trained service animals and pets.
Europe: The UK and Ireland enforce strict entry controls and often quarantine ESAs. Within the EU, pets can travel under the Pet Travel Scheme, but ESAs are generally treated as pets unless otherwise stated by the airline or the destination country. Travelers must confirm both airline and national import policies before departure.
Asia-Pacific: Japan and South Korea impose detailed import procedures including rabies testing and long waiting periods. Australia and Singapore maintain mandatory quarantine for all non-service animals, with limited exceptions for certified service dogs. Thailand remains comparatively lenient, though vaccination proof is still mandatory.
Middle East: The UAE and Qatar allow ESAs only as pets in cargo. Regulations may differ across airlines, and travelers should check for any additional airline-imposed restrictions before booking.
South America: Brazil and Argentina are generally ESA-friendly, allowing travel with standard health and vaccination documents. However, some regional airlines or countries may impose additional import requirements, so it’s essential to verify these details in advance.
Airline ESA Policies for 2025
Airlines That Still Accommodate ESAs
Some Latin American and select Asian airlines continue to honor ESA-specific policies. Carriers like Volaris and select regional operators within Europe may permit ESAs in-cabin on limited routes. Be ready to provide documentation and confirm breed and size allowances. Policies change frequently, so reconfirm 30 days before travel.
Airlines That No Longer Recognize ESAs
Most U.S. and European airlines now classify ESAs as pets. This means cabin travel depends on carrier size, weight limits, and fees. Delta, United, and Air France are among those that have fully transitioned to this policy. However, they still provide excellent pet travel services, just under different terms. For travelers who rely deeply on emotional support animals, transparency and early preparation make all the difference.
Comparison Table: ESA Rules by Major Airline (2025)
| Airline | ESA Accepted? | Cabin Eligibility | Required Documents | Advance Notice |
| Volaris | Yes (Limited) | Total weight of 26 lbs | ESA Letter, Health Certificate | 48 Hours |
| Lufthansa | No (Assistance dogs only) | Up to 17.6 lbs (pet and carrier) | Health Certificate, Vaccines | 72 Hours |
| Delta | No (Service dogs only) | Pet in Cabin (fee applies) | Vet Certificate, Carrier Size | 48 Hours (for pet booking) |
| Air Canada | No (Service dogs only) | Cargo or Pet in Cabin | ESA Forms, Vet Health Form, Vaccines, Carrier | 96 Hours |
| LATAM | Yes (Certain Routes) | Under 12 kg (approx. 26.5 lbs) | ESA Form, Health Certificate, Behavior Form | 48 hours |
Traveling with a Service Animal Instead
Understanding Service Animal Rights Under the ACAA
The Air Carrier Access Act protects trained service dogs who assist individuals with disabilities. Airlines must transport them free of charge in-cabin, provided travelers submit DOT forms attesting to the dog’s training, behavior, and ability to relieve itself during long flights. These rights, however, do not extend to emotional support animals, marking a clear boundary between assistance and companionship.
Transitioning an ESA to a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)
For some, transforming an ESA into a trained Psychiatric Service Dog can open new travel possibilities. PSDs perform specific tasks that mitigate mental health conditions, qualifying them for broader travel rights under the ACAA. Training takes time, consistency, and professional guidance, but the benefits, legal recognition, reduced stress, and access, can be profound. It’s an option worth exploring for frequent travelers seeking long-term solutions.
2025 ESA Travel Checklist
- Airline research
- Country import rules
- ESA letter and health certificate
- Vaccinations and microchip
- Carrier or crate preparation
- Paperwork submission
- Vet visit and medications
- Insurance and emergency plan
Traveling Responsibly with Your ESA in 2025
Traveling internationally with an ESA in 2025 demands patience, empathy, and preparation. Regulations may vary across borders, but the bond you share with your animal remains constant. By researching ahead, organizing your documentation, and respecting the rules that protect both travelers and animals, you ensure smoother, safer journeys for everyone. At Emma & Buddy, we believe that travel with pets should be built on compassion, not convenience. The world is still open for you and your companion; it just asks that we meet it with understanding and care.
