23Aug, 2025
ESA for International Travel: What You Need to Know Before Flying Abroad with Your Emotional Support Animal

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ESA for International Travel: What You Need to Know Before Flying Abroad with Your Emotional Support Animal

International travel can be a complex process, especially when you’re traveling with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). As of 2025, laws and airline policies around ESAs have changed significantly, both in the United States and abroad. If you’re planning to travel internationally with your ESA, you need to be well-informed about the requirements and limitations that apply globally.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ESA for international travel, including legal changes, airline policies, documentation, and tips for preparing your ESA for the journey.

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What Is an ESA?

An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is a pet that provides comfort and emotional stability to individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not required to have specialized training, and their primary role is companionship.

ESAs are prescribed by licensed mental health professionals, and until recently, many airlines offered certain accommodations for ESAs on both domestic and international flights. However, that has changed.

Recent Changes in ESA Travel Laws (U.S. and International)

The biggest shift in ESA travel came in 2021 when the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) revised the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) regulations. As a result, U.S.-based airlines are no longer required to accommodate ESAs as service animals.

Key points:

  • Service animals (usually dogs) are still protected under the ACAA.

  • Emotional support animals are now considered pets, subject to airline pet travel rules.

  • These rules also apply to international flights operated by U.S. airlines.

Internationally, each country has its own regulations, and many do not recognize ESAs in the same way the U.S. did previously. In most cases, ESAs must follow standard pet import and export laws.

Can You Travel Internationally with an ESA in 2025?

Yes, you can travel with an ESA internationally — but not under the same protections as service animals. Your ESA will typically be treated as a pet, and the following apply:

  • Airline pet fees

  • Size and weight restrictions

  • Country-specific quarantine and vaccination requirements

  • Approved carriers or crates

  • No guarantee of ESA in-cabin privileges

ESA Airline Policies for International Travel (2025)

Here’s how major airlines currently treat ESAs for international travel:

1. American Airlines

  • No longer accepts ESAs as service animals.

  • ESA must fly as a pet.

  • Requires advanced booking, health certificate, and carrier size restrictions.

2. Delta Airlines

  • ESAs are not allowed as service animals.

  • Allowed in the cabin only if they meet pet requirements (usually under 20 lbs).

3. United Airlines

  • Only trained service dogs are permitted under ADA/ACAA.

  • ESAs treated as pets.

4. Air Canada

  • No longer recognizes ESAs as service animals.

  • Pets allowed on international flights with restrictions.

5. British Airways / Lufthansa / Air France

  • European carriers generally do not recognize ESAs.

  • You must follow pet travel policies.

  • Larger animals may need to be transported in the cargo hold.

Required Documents for International ESA Travel

International ESA travel involves much more documentation than domestic travel. Here are the essential items you’ll need:

✅ Veterinary Health Certificate

  • Must be issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel.

  • Confirms your ESA is healthy and fit for travel.

✅ Vaccination Records

  • Especially rabies vaccination.

  • Some countries require additional vaccinations (e.g., tapeworm, tick treatment).

✅ Microchip Identification

  • Many countries (like the UK, EU nations) require microchipping for imported animals.

✅ Import/Export Permits

  • Some destinations (Australia, New Zealand, Japan) have strict animal import rules.

  • Apply well in advance to secure necessary permits.

✅ ESA Letter (optional but recommended)

  • Issued by a licensed mental health professional.

  • May not grant privileges, but some airlines may consider it for cabin travel.

✅ Customs Declarations

  • You may need to declare your ESA at customs upon arrival.

Country-Specific ESA and Pet Rules (2025)

Here are examples of how ESAs are treated in various countries:

United Kingdom

  • ESA not recognized as a service animal.

  • All animals must meet Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) rules.

  • Quarantine possible if rules are not followed.

European Union

  • ESAs must travel under pet rules.

  • Requires an EU pet passport or third-country health certificate.

Australia & New Zealand

  • Extremely strict animal import laws.

  • Long quarantine periods (up to 10 days in government facilities).

  • ESA recognition is not provided.

Canada

  • ESAs treated as pets for air travel.

  • Domestic ESA protections still exist in housing, but not air travel.

Mexico and South America

  • ESA recognition varies widely.

  • Most animals must have vaccinations and health certificates.

  • Cabin travel allowed for small pets on some airlines.

Tips for Traveling Internationally with an ESA

  1. Start Planning Early
    Begin the documentation process at least 60–90 days before your flight.

  2. Check the Airline and Country Requirements
    Rules vary by destination and airline, so call both and verify in writing.

  3. Use an IATA-Approved Carrier
    Your ESA must be comfortable and secure in an airline-approved pet carrier.

  4. Train Your ESA for Long Flights
    Practice crate training, manage anxiety, and consult a vet for calming strategies.

  5. Carry All Documents in Duplicate
    Bring printed copies and keep digital backups of all health records and permits.

  6. Work with a Pet Travel Agency (Optional)
    For complex destinations, a pet relocation expert can handle logistics and compliance.

Can Your ESA Qualify as a Service Animal Internationally?

If your ESA performs specific, trained tasks related to your disability (such as interrupting panic attacks), it may qualify as a psychiatric service dog under the ADA and international service animal definitions.

To qualify:

  • Must be a dog (other species not accepted internationally).

  • Must be individually trained to perform tasks.

  • You may need a letter from a doctor or therapist.

  • Some countries still require advance permission for service dogs.

This can offer broader legal protections compared to ESA status.

Conclusion: Know Before You Go

Traveling internationally with an Emotional Support Animal in 2025 is possible, but it comes with significant restrictions and responsibilities. Most airlines and countries no longer recognize ESAs as service animals, meaning your companion will travel as a pet, with all related policies, fees, and documentation.

To ensure a smooth experience:

  • Plan ahead

  • Follow all health, safety, and travel regulations

  • Prepare your ESA emotionally and physically

  • Stay informed about changing rules and country-specific laws

With the right preparation, you and your ESA can travel the world together safely and legally.

“Get Yours Now!

Don’t wait until a landlord or airline tells you “no pets allowed.” Protect your rights today.

Please fill out this form and our team wil contact you ASAP.

Form Link

Complete your assessment in minutes , get approved by a licensed professional, and receive your letter within 24 hours.

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