The EU imposes a 50% duty on animals from Russia and Belarus: how the rules will change from July 22, 2025
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From July 22, 2025, a new regulation will come into force in the EU: a 50% duty on the import of animals from Russia and Belarus. Let's explore how the rules will change, which countries are the strictest in evaluating animals, and how to prepare for the new expenses.
Starting July 22, 2025, new European Union (EU) rules concerning import duties on animals will come into force. This decision raises many questions and concerns among pet owners and transport companies. In this article, we will examine in detail the key changes related to the introduction of a 50% duty on all animals imported from Russia and Belarus. We will also explore how this will affect those traveling with pets to EU countries.
What Changes on July 22, 2025?
According to the new regulation (EU 2025/1227), the import duty on animals will amount to a significant 50% of the value determined by customs. This means that both pet owners and those involved in commercial import will need to seriously reconsider their financial plans.
It’s important to note that different EU countries may have varying approaches to valuing animals — directly impacting the total cost.
It’s important to note that different EU countries may have varying approaches to valuing animals — directly impacting the total cost.
Key Highlights of the New Rules:
- A mandatory 50% duty on all animals imported from Russia and Belarus.
- Different valuation approaches — EU countries may apply varying minimum values for animals.
Differences in Animal Valuation Among EU Countries
Research and consultations with veterinary and customs authorities show how critical it is to understand valuation criteria, as this directly impacts duty amounts.
Estonia
Estonia sets the minimum customs value for animals at €1,000, even for non-pedigree pets. This means that importing, say, a mixed-breed cat could cost an extra €860 in duty — making this route less appealing for pet owners.
Poland
Polish customs rules are more flexible. Pet owners can declare a value as low as €500, significantly reducing overall import costs. This makes Poland a more favorable entry point for pet transportation.
Why These Differences Matter
Experts emphasize that understanding these nuances can heavily influence your decision on where to transport your pet. By carefully analyzing tariff policies, travelers can reduce expenses and avoid unpleasant surprises.
How to Prepare for the New Costs
We recommend all pet owners prepare in advance for the upcoming changes to avoid issues at the border. Here are a few steps to help you organize the process:
Understand Your Financial Responsibility
- Estimate your pet’s market value. This will help you determine your expected duty cost.
- Review the latest customs tariffs and consult directly with customs services to clarify your costs in advance.
Veterinary Requirements
- Ensure all veterinary documentation is up to date. Microchipping and vaccination are mandatory procedures.
- Double-check the specific veterinary entry requirements of your destination country — they may vary and take time to fulfill.
Supporting Examples
To better understand the real-world implications, consider the following:
- In Estonia, despite the pet’s breed, the customs value is set at €1,000, meaning a 50% duty could cost an additional €860.
- In Poland, declaring a value of €500 would result in much lower duty costs — a more manageable financial burden.
Conclusion: Staying Informed is Key
With the introduction of new import rules, pet owners must be ready for changes that may significantly affect their financial planning and logistics. Careful preparation and awareness of current requirements are essential for smooth travel with animals.
- Recommendations:Stay up to date with legislation changes and anticipate extra expenses.
- Consult with international pet transportation services to better understand logistics.
- Talk to veterinary professionals to ensure compliance with all entry requirements.