AHC vs EHC vs Fit to Fly Certificates: What They Are & When You Need Each (2026)
- Sebastian Miller
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
If you’re travelling with a pet soon, it’s easy to get stuck on one question: AHC vs EHC vs Fit to Fly certificate - which one do I actually need? The names sound similar, and online advice is often inconsistent.
This guide gives you a calm, practical breakdown of what each certificate is, when it’s usually required, and how to avoid the common mistakes that cause last-minute stress.
Quick answer - AHC vs EHC vs Fit to Fly certificate: which one do I need?
The right document depends on where you’re going and what your airline (or destination) asks for.
For specific routes and destinations, please get in touch so we can advise you accurately.
What is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)?
An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is a pet travel document commonly used for travelling to the EU from the UK.
It is completed and issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV). In plain English, it’s a certificate that confirms your pet meets the relevant travel requirements for your journey.
What owners typically need to bring
Depending on your trip, you’ll usually be asked for:
Microchip details
Rabies vaccination record (where relevant)
Your travel itinerary (dates, route, and first point of entry)
You likely need an AHC if
You’re travelling from the UK to an EU country with your dog, cat, or ferret
You need a formal pet travel certificate issued close to your travel date
Want to learn more about the AHC process? Click the button below to explore our step-by-step guide.
What is an Export Health Certificate (EHC)?
An Export Health Certificate (EHC) is used when exporting animals from the UK to certain non-EU destinations, where requirements are often country-specific.
EHCs can involve additional steps depending on the destination and purpose of travel. The key point is that an EHC is not a generic document - it’s usually tied to a specific destination’s import rules.
Information that is typically required
Exact requirements vary, but you will commonly need:
Species and identifying details
Destination country (and sometimes region)
Purpose of travel (e.g., relocation)
Travel route and dates
You likely need an EHC if
You’re travelling with a pet from the UK to a non-EU country
Your destination requires a specific export certificate
If you’re travelling outside the EU, you can learn more about Export Health Certificates and the process below.
What is a Fit to Fly certificate for pets?
A Fit to Fly certificate is a letter or certificate confirming that your pet is fit to travel.
It may be requested by:
Airlines
Landlords or relocation providers
Some destinations (depending on their rules)
The important distinction
A Fit to Fly certificate is not the same as an AHC or an EHC.
AHC/EHC: travel documentation required for entry (depending on destination)
Fit to Fly: a fitness-to-travel confirmation that may be required in addition
You might need Fit to Fly if
Your airline asks for a fitness-to-travel certificate
You’re travelling with an older pet or a pet with a medical history and want clear documentation
A third party (relocation provider, landlord) requests confirmation of fitness to travel
If your airline requires it, you can learn more about Fit to Fly certificates below.
Common scenarios (examples)
Here are a few quick examples to make the decision easier:
Taking my dog/cat/ferret to France - you will likely need an AHC.
Travelling to the EU, but my airline is asking for Fit to Fly - you may need Fit to Fly + AHC, depending on your destination and airline.
Moving a pet outside the EU - you may need an EHC (destination-specific).
My destination is non-EU and my airline also wants Fit to Fly - you may need Fit to Fly + EHC, depending on the destination and carrier.
I have transit countries - requirements can depend on your route and first point of entry.
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Most last-minute issues come down to timing and assumptions. The most common ones we see are:
Booking too late - certification is often time-sensitive, and appointment availability can be limited.
Assuming Fit to Fly replaces AHC/EHC - it doesn’t. Fit to Fly may be additional.
Not using an Official Veterinarian (OV) where required - AHCs and many EHCs must be completed by an OV.
Incorrect itinerary details - route, dates, and first point of entry matter.
Missing or mismatched records - microchip and vaccination details (where relevant) must match the paperwork.
FAQs
Do I need both an AHC and Fit to Fly?
Sometimes, yes. If your destination requires an AHC and your airline also requests Fit to Fly, you may need both.
Is an EHC the same as an AHC?
No. An AHC is commonly used for UK-to-EU pet travel, while an EHC is typically destination-specific for non-EU travel.
How far in advance should I book?
As a general rule, it’s best to book early especially around peak travel periods. Exact timing depends on your destination and the certificate required.
What if my travel plans change?
Small changes can matter (dates, route, first point of entry). If anything changes, it’s best to confirm whether your paperwork needs updating.
Can you issue these via a home visit in London?
Yes - London Pet Travel Certificates provides mobile home visits across London for pet travel certification.
Do you cover evenings and weekends?
Evening and weekend appointments are available on request, depending on availability.
What information do you need from me to confirm the right certificate?
Your destination, travel date, route (including transit countries), and your pet’s details are usually enough to advise next steps.
Not sure which one you need?
If you’re still unsure about AHC vs EHC vs Fit to Fly certificate, the safest approach is to confirm early - especially if you’re travelling soon.
London Pet Travel Certificates provides mobile OV home visits across London, with meticulous paperwork checking, transparent pricing, and evening/weekend appointments on request.
Ready to get started? Submit your enquiry and we’ll guide you through the process step by step. Not sure what you need? Get in touch and we’ll advise you.
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