Instruction: how to prepare documents for a dog for international travel.

1. Initial Research and Planning

1.1 Destination Country Requirements

When planning an overseas trip with a canine companion, the first step is to verify the specific entry regulations of the destination nation. Requirements differ markedly between countries; failure to comply can result in denial of entry, quarantine, or fines.

Key elements to confirm include:

Official import permit - many jurisdictions require a government‑issued permit that must be obtained before travel. The application often demands proof of ownership and a detailed itinerary.
Veterinary health certificate - a licensed veterinarian must issue a certificate within the time frame stipulated by the destination (commonly 7-10 days before departure). The document should list the dog’s species, breed, age, and health status, confirming freedom from contagious diseases.
Vaccination record - rabies vaccination is mandatory in virtually all cases. Verify the required antigenic titre, the minimum interval since vaccination, and whether a booster is needed. Some countries also demand additional vaccines such as canine distemper or leptospirosis.
Microchip compliance - the dog must carry an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15‑digit microchip. If the pet’s chip uses a different standard, an approved reader or a secondary chip may be required.
Breed or size restrictions - certain breeds are prohibited or subject to special conditions. Check for bans on breeds classified as “dangerous” or for weight limits that affect transport classification.
Quarantine policy - some destinations impose a mandatory quarantine period, while others waive it if all documentation is flawless. Note the facility’s location, duration, and any fees.
Customs declaration form - complete the animal import form provided by the destination’s customs authority. Include the pet’s passport number, microchip ID, and vaccination dates.
Additional health tests - a few countries request serological testing for diseases such as echinococcosis or heartworm. These tests have specific sampling windows and must be performed by accredited laboratories.

The expert recommendation is to compile a master checklist that aligns each of these items with the official guidelines published on the destination’s agricultural or veterinary authority website. Contact the embassy or consulate for the latest updates, as regulations can change with short notice. Secure all original documents and retain certified copies for presentation at the point of entry. Failure to present any required document in the prescribed format will trigger corrective measures, potentially delaying or canceling the trip.

1.2 Airline Regulations

Airline regulations dictate the documentation and handling procedures required for a canine passenger on international flights. Compliance begins with confirming that the carrier accepts animals in the cabin or cargo hold for the chosen route; some airlines restrict pets to specific destinations or impose seasonal limitations.

The airline will demand a valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within the timeframe prescribed by the carrier, typically 48-72 hours before departure. The certificate must attest that the dog is free of contagious diseases, list all administered vaccinations, and include the parasite‑treatment date if required by the destination country.

Microchip implantation is mandatory for most jurisdictions. The microchip must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards; otherwise, the owner must provide a compatible scanner. The chip number must appear on the health certificate and any import permits.

A government‑issued import permit, when applicable, must be presented alongside the health certificate. The permit outlines quarantine requirements, if any, and confirms that the animal meets the destination’s veterinary standards.

Crate specifications are non‑negotiable. The container must be airline‑approved, constructed of sturdy material, and feature a leak‑proof bottom. Internal dimensions must allow the dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. The crate label must display the owner’s contact information, the dog’s name, and the flight details.

Fees vary by carrier and travel class. Most airlines charge a fixed surcharge per pet, with additional costs for oversized crates or special handling. Payment is required at check‑in; some airlines permit advance online payment.

A concise checklist for airline compliance:

Verify pet acceptance for the specific route and class.
Obtain a health certificate within the carrier’s required window.
Ensure ISO‑compatible microchip implantation; record the chip number.
Secure any necessary import permits from the destination’s authorities.
Acquire an airline‑approved crate meeting size and construction criteria.
Prepare documentation (health certificate, microchip proof, permit) in the original language or with an official translation.
Pay applicable pet fees before or at check‑in.
Arrive at the airport early to complete check‑in procedures and confirm crate labeling.

Adhering strictly to these regulations eliminates last‑minute complications and facilitates smooth international travel for the dog.

1.3 Timeline for Document Preparation

When arranging paperwork for a canine passenger, the schedule determines whether the journey proceeds without administrative setbacks. The following timeline aligns with typical airline and governmental requirements for international trips.

90 days before departure - Verify the destination’s import regulations; obtain a list of mandatory certificates and vaccinations. Request a health assessment from a licensed veterinarian to ensure eligibility for the required examinations.
75 days before departure - Initiate the microchip implantation if the dog is not already registered. Register the microchip number with the national pet database and obtain the corresponding proof of registration.
60 days before departure - Schedule the core rabies vaccination. Record the date, vaccine batch, and veterinarian’s signature on the vaccination certificate.
45 days before departure - Apply for the official export health certificate (or equivalent) from the competent authority. Submit the veterinarian’s health report, microchip documentation, and rabies vaccination record. Anticipate a processing period of 10-14 days.
30 days before departure - Receive the completed health certificate. Review the document for accuracy; any discrepancy must be corrected immediately.
21 days before departure - Arrange a final pre‑travel health check, including a blood test for rabies antibodies if required. Ensure the test result is dated within the permissible window (usually 21 days before travel).
14 days before departure - Obtain the import permit from the destination country’s veterinary authority, attaching the health certificate and antibody test results.
7 days before departure - Confirm the airline’s pet travel policy, secure a reservation for the dog, and provide copies of all documents to the carrier.
48 hours before departure - Perform a brief health check to certify the dog’s fitness for travel; obtain a final clearance note from the veterinarian.

Adhering to this schedule eliminates last‑minute complications and ensures that all required documents are valid, correctly formatted, and presented to the appropriate authorities in a timely manner.

2. Essential Health Documentation

2.1 Veterinary Health Certificate

A Veterinary Health Certificate (VHC) is the primary document confirming that a dog meets the health standards required for crossing international borders. It must be issued by an authorized veterinary practitioner within the timeframe specified by the destination country, typically no more than ten days before travel.

The certificate must contain:

Owner’s full name and contact details.
Dog’s identification (microchip number, breed, age, sex, and color).
Date of examination and signature of the veterinarian, including license number.
Confirmation of up‑to‑date vaccinations, especially rabies, with vaccine batch number and expiration date.
Results of required laboratory tests (e.g., rabies serology, parasite screening) where applicable.
Statement that the animal is free from clinical signs of infectious diseases at the time of examination.
Endorsement by the relevant governmental authority (e.g., USDA, EU Veterinary Authority) if required by the destination.

To obtain a VHC, follow these steps:

Schedule an appointment with a licensed veterinarian familiar with export regulations.
Ensure the dog’s microchip is compliant with ISO 11784/11785 standards; if not, provide an approved scanner.
Update rabies vaccination at least 21 days before the certificate issuance, respecting the minimum interval mandated by the target country.
Conduct any mandatory blood tests within the prescribed window, submit samples to an accredited laboratory, and retain the lab report.
Attend the veterinary examination; the practitioner will complete the form, affix the official seal, and sign electronically or manually.
Submit the completed VHC to the appropriate animal health authority for validation, if the destination requires official endorsement.

Validity periods differ: some jurisdictions accept a VHC valid for up to 30 days, while others demand a stricter window. Verify the exact requirement before travel to avoid denial at the border.

Common errors include submitting an expired rabies vaccine record, using a non‑ISO microchip, or failing to obtain the required government endorsement. Correcting these issues before the certificate is issued prevents delays and additional costs.

Maintaining a digital copy of the VHC alongside the original paper document facilitates quick reference during transit and at customs checkpoints.

2.1.1 USDA/APHIS Endorsement (for US departures)

The USDA/APHIS Endorsement certifies that a dog meets United States export health requirements and is recognized by the destination country’s authorities. Begin by scheduling an appointment with an authorized USDA Veterinary Services office; appointments are mandatory and cannot be obtained on a walk‑in basis.

During the appointment, present the following items:

Original rabies vaccination certificate, stamped by a licensed veterinarian, showing a valid vaccine administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel (or according to the destination’s specific interval).
Current health certificate (Form APHIS 7001) completed by a USDA‑certified veterinarian, confirming the animal is free of contagious diseases and fit for transport.
Proof of microchip implantation that complies with ISO 11784/11785 standards; the microchip number must be listed on the health certificate.
Any additional permits required by the destination country (e.g., import permit, specific disease testing results).

After the veterinarian signs the health certificate, submit the documents to the USDA office for endorsement. The office reviews the paperwork, may request supplemental testing (such as a blood test for rabies antibody titers), and affixes an official endorsement stamp and signature. The endorsement is valid for the period specified by the destination country, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days.

Allow at least 5 business days for processing; expedited service is unavailable. Collect the endorsed certificate in person, verify that the endorsement stamp is legible, and attach it securely to the dog’s travel dossier. Failure to present a correctly endorsed document at the point of departure results in denial of export clearance.

2.1.2 EU Pet Passport (for EU travel)

The EU Pet Passport is the primary document that enables a dog to travel freely across member states without additional health certificates at each border. It is issued by an authorized veterinarian and records the animal’s identification and health status in a standardized format recognized throughout the European Union.

To obtain a passport, the following steps must be completed:

Ensure the dog carries an ISO‑compliant microchip implanted after birth. The microchip number must be entered into the passport.
Administer a rabies vaccination that complies with EU regulations. The vaccine must be given after microchip implantation and at least 21 days before travel. Record the vaccine brand, batch number, and expiration date.
Schedule a health examination with an authorized vet. The veterinarian will verify the microchip, confirm vaccination status, and assess overall health.
The vet completes the passport, entering the microchip data, vaccination details, and any additional treatments (e.g., tapeworm medication required for certain countries).
The passport is signed and stamped by the issuing authority, confirming its validity.

Key points to remember:

The passport remains valid for the duration of the rabies vaccination’s effectiveness, typically up to three years, provided the microchip and vaccination data stay current.
If the dog receives a new rabies vaccine, the passport must be updated with the new information.
Some EU countries require an additional treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis (tapeworm) administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours before entry; the treatment must be recorded in the passport.

Compliance with these requirements eliminates the need for a separate veterinary health certificate when crossing internal EU borders, streamlining travel planning and reducing administrative delays.

2.2 Rabies Vaccination Certificate

The rabies vaccination certificate is a mandatory document for any canine passenger crossing international borders. It must be issued by an accredited veterinarian and contain the following elements:

Owner’s full name and contact information.
Dog’s identification details (breed, colour, sex, date of birth, microchip number).
Name, manufacturer, batch number, and expiry date of the rabies vaccine administered.
Date of vaccination and the date when the certificate becomes valid (usually 21 days after injection).
Signature, stamp, and license number of the veterinarian who performed the vaccination.

The certificate’s validity typically extends for one year from the date of vaccination, unless the destination country specifies a shorter period. Some jurisdictions require the vaccine to be administered at least 30 days before travel; verify the exact interval for the target country.

If the original certificate is not in the language of the destination, provide an official translation accompanied by a notarized affidavit confirming accuracy. In addition, many authorities demand an apostille or consular legalization to authenticate the document; obtain this from the appropriate government office before departure.

When the dog possesses a microchip, ensure the chip number recorded on the certificate matches the chip registered in the national pet database. Discrepancies can lead to denial of entry.

Before finalizing travel plans, consult the destination’s embassy or animal health authority to confirm any supplementary requirements, such as a blood rabies antibody titre test, which may be mandatory even if a valid certificate is presented.

2.3 Other Required Vaccinations

When traveling internationally with a dog, compliance with destination‑specific vaccination requirements is essential. Beyond the mandatory rabies inoculation, many countries demand additional immunizations to protect against regional diseases and to satisfy import regulations.

Leptospirosis - Required by several European Union members and some Asian jurisdictions. Administer at least 21 days before departure; the certificate must show the vaccine name, batch number, and expiration date, typically valid for one year.
Canine Distemper, Parvovirus, and Adenovirus (DHPP) - Mandatory for entry into Australia, New Zealand, and certain South American nations. The final dose of the combined vaccine must be given no less than 14 days and no more than 12 months before travel, depending on local rules.
Echinococcosis (Echinococcus multilocularis) vaccine - Obligatory for dogs entering the United Kingdom and Ireland. A single dose administered at least 30 days prior to arrival is required; the certificate must indicate the specific product and date of administration.
Bordetella bronchiseptica - Often required for dogs traveling on commercial flights or entering pet boarding facilities abroad. The vaccine’s validity period varies, commonly 6-12 months; verify the carrier’s policy.
Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) vaccine - Occasionally requested by countries with high tick prevalence, such as the United States for certain states. Documentation must list the vaccine type and expiration.

Each required vaccine must be recorded on an official veterinary health certificate (or a pet passport where applicable). The certificate should include:

Owner’s name and address.
Dog’s identification details (breed, age, microchip number).
Full description of each administered vaccine (product name, manufacturer, batch/lot number).
Date of administration and date of expiry.
Veterinarian’s signature, stamp, and license number.

Before scheduling vaccinations, consult the destination’s governmental animal health authority or an accredited pet travel agency. Confirm the exact vaccine brand accepted, the permissible interval between vaccination and departure, and any additional serological testing that may be required (e.g., antibody titers for rabies). Failure to present accurate, up‑to‑date vaccination records can result in denied entry, quarantine, or costly re‑vaccination upon arrival.

2.4 Parasite Treatment Records

Parasite treatment records are a mandatory component of a dog’s travel dossier. Authorities require proof that the animal has undergone a recent antiparasitic regimen to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases across borders.

The record must include:

Name of the veterinarian who administered the treatment.
Date of each treatment, expressed in day‑month‑year format.
Type of product used (brand name and active ingredient).
Dosage administered, expressed in milligrams or milliliters per kilogram of body weight.
Confirmation that the product complies with the destination country’s approved list.

The document should be stamped and signed by the veterinary professional. A legible copy of the original certificate must accompany the pet passport or health certificate. Some jurisdictions also accept electronic versions, provided they contain a digital signature that can be verified by the receiving authority.

Failure to present a complete and accurate parasite treatment record can result in denial of entry, quarantine, or additional veterinary inspections upon arrival. Ensure the record is up‑to‑date at the time of travel, typically within the last 30 days, unless the destination specifies a different interval.

3. Identification and Ownership Documents

3.1 Microchip Implantation and Registration

Microchip implantation is a non‑negotiable prerequisite for cross‑border canine travel. The device must meet ISO 11784/11785 standards; otherwise, a compatible scanner will be required at the destination. Implant the chip subcutaneously between the shoulder blades using a sterile syringe, record the exact implantation date, and retain the veterinary receipt as primary evidence.

Registration links the chip to the owner’s identity and must be completed before departure. Follow these steps:

Access the national pet‑identification database or an internationally recognized registry (e.g., PetLink, AVID).
Enter the chip number, animal’s breed, birthdate, and passport details.
Provide the owner’s full name, address, and contact information.
Upload a scanned copy of the veterinary implantation report.
Confirm the entry and obtain a registration confirmation number; print or save a digital copy for customs inspection.

Keep the registration confirmation alongside the pet passport, health certificate, and vaccination records. Failure to present a valid microchip registration will result in denial of entry or mandatory quarantine.

3.2 Proof of Ownership

An internationally traveling dog must be accompanied by clear evidence that the traveler is the legal owner. Acceptable proof includes a registered microchip certificate that lists the owner’s name and contact information, a recent veterinary vaccination record that contains the owner’s details, and a government‑issued pet passport or a notarized declaration of ownership. Each document should display the dog’s breed, date of birth, and identification number, and must be dated within the last six months to satisfy most border authorities.

When presenting ownership proof, ensure that:

The owner’s full legal name matches the name on the passport or travel document.
The address on the certificate corresponds to the traveler's current residence.
All entries are legible and free of alterations; any corrections must be initialed and dated by the issuing authority.
Documents are translated into the official language of the destination country and accompanied by a certified translation if the original is not in that language.

If the dog has changed hands within the past year, provide a transfer of ownership agreement signed by both parties, notarized, and accompanied by the previous owner’s identification. Retain copies of all documents in both digital (PDF) and printed formats, stored in separate locations to prevent loss during transit.

Before departure, verify that the destination’s veterinary services accept the specific type of proof offered. Some jurisdictions require a microchip registration check performed by an authorized veterinarian within a specified timeframe. Confirm the microchip number matches the entry on the ownership certificate to avoid discrepancies at customs.

3.3 Pet Passport (if applicable)

A pet passport serves as a single, standardized record that consolidates a dog’s identification, health status, and travel authorizations, simplifying cross‑border movement. The document is issued by an authorized veterinary authority in the country of origin and must contain the following elements:

A microchip number registered in accordance with ISO 11784/11785 standards; the chip must be implanted before any rabies vaccination is administered.
A rabies vaccination certificate showing the date of inoculation, product name, batch number, and the veterinarian’s signature. The vaccine must be approved by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and administered at least 21 days prior to departure, unless the destination accepts a shorter interval.
A serological test (rabies antibody titre) performed at an approved laboratory, required by many EU and non‑EU states. The result must demonstrate a minimum titre of 0.5 IU/ml and be recorded no earlier than 30 days and no later than 12 months before travel.
A health certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian within the time frame stipulated by the destination (often 48-72 hours before departure). The certificate confirms the dog is free of clinical signs of infectious diseases and lists any treatments administered, such as deworming or ectoparasite control.
The owner’s contact information and a statement of responsibility for the animal’s welfare throughout the journey.

The passport’s validity aligns with the rabies vaccination schedule; each booster extends the passport’s relevance for the duration of the vaccine’s approved efficacy, typically one to three years. When a pet passport is unavailable, the same data must be presented in separate, officially translated documents, but the passport remains the preferred format because it is universally recognized by customs officials and airline personnel.

Before travel, verify that the destination’s regulations do not impose additional requirements, such as specific tick treatments or quarantine periods. Failure to present a complete and current passport can result in denial of entry, fines, or the need for emergency quarantine, incurring significant costs and stress for both owner and animal.

4. Import/Export Permits

4.1 Export Permit from Departure Country

An export permit is the official authorization issued by the country of departure that allows a dog to leave its territory for a foreign destination. The permit confirms compliance with national animal‑health regulations and is required by most import authorities to prevent the spread of diseases.

To obtain the permit, follow these steps:

Contact the national veterinary authority or designated animal‑health agency. Identify the specific office responsible for export documentation (often a Ministry of Agriculture or a State Veterinary Service).
Prepare the required documents, which typically include:
- A valid health certificate issued within the stipulated time frame (usually 5-10 days before travel).
- Proof of current rabies vaccination and, where applicable, a rabies antibody titer test.
- Results of any additional disease screenings mandated by the destination country (e.g., tick‑borne diseases, parasites).
- Identification records such as microchip registration or passport details.
- Proof of ownership (registration papers or purchase receipt).
Submit the compiled dossier to the authority either in person or through an authorized electronic portal. Some jurisdictions require a signed declaration that the animal meets all export criteria.
Pay the applicable fee. Fees vary by country and may be listed on the agency’s website; retain the receipt as part of the export file.
Await processing. Standard processing times range from 3 business days to two weeks, depending on workload and the completeness of the submission. Request expedited service only if the travel date is imminent and the agency offers such an option.
Receive the export permit, which will be stamped and dated. Verify that the permit includes:
- The dog’s name, breed, age, and identification number.
- The intended destination and date of export.
- The signature of the authorized official.

After issuance, keep the permit together with the health certificate and other travel documents. Present the permit to customs officials at the point of departure; failure to produce it may result in denial of entry or quarantine upon arrival. Ensure that the permit remains valid for the entire travel period; some countries require renewal if the journey exceeds the validity window indicated on the document.

4.2 Import Permit from Destination Country

As a veterinary compliance specialist, I explain the import permit requirements that must be satisfied before the dog can enter the destination country.

The permit is a formal authorization issued by the veterinary authority of the receiving nation. It confirms that the animal complies with that country’s health, vaccination, and disease‑control regulations. The document must be presented to customs officials at the point of entry and retained for the duration of the stay.

Key elements of the permit application:

Official request form provided by the destination country’s animal health agency.
Valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within the timeframe specified by the receiving authority (usually not older than 10 days).
Proof of current rabies vaccination, including vaccination date, product name, and expiration date.
Results of any required serological test (e.g., rabies antibody titre) performed by an approved laboratory, accompanied by the laboratory report.
Evidence of treatment against internal and external parasites, dated within the period mandated by the destination country.
Identification details: microchip number, breed, age, and sex of the dog.
Owner’s passport copy and contact information.
Payment receipt for the permit fee, if applicable.

Submission process:

Gather all required documents and ensure they are translated into the official language of the destination country, if translation is mandated.
Complete the online or paper application form, attaching scanned copies of each document.
Pay the processing fee using the accepted method (credit card, bank transfer, etc.).
Await confirmation email or official letter indicating approval. The permit typically includes a unique reference number and a validity period; note the expiration date and plan travel accordingly.

Compliance tips:

Verify the exact validity periods for each document, as they differ between jurisdictions.
Keep original documents and certified copies separate; present originals to customs, and retain copies for personal records.
Contact the destination country’s embassy or consulate for any recent regulatory updates before finalizing the application.

Obtaining the import permit on schedule eliminates the risk of denial of entry, quarantine delays, or additional fees, ensuring a smooth transition for the animal across borders.

5. Additional Documentation and Considerations

5.1 Crate Requirements and Documentation

A compliant travel crate and complete paperwork are mandatory for any dog crossing international borders. The crate must meet the following specifications:

Constructed of sturdy, non‑metallic material; metal frames are prohibited by most airlines.
Internal dimensions allow the animal to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably; measured at the longest point, height, and width.
Ventilation openings on at least two opposite sides, each no larger than 6 cm² to prevent injury.
Secure, lockable door with a latch that cannot be opened by the animal.
Label indicating “Live Animals” with the owner’s contact information affixed to the exterior.
Certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for the intended route.

Documentation accompanying the crate must include:

Veterinary health certificate issued within ten days of departure, signed by an accredited veterinarian.
Proof of current rabies vaccination, including date of administration and vaccine batch number.
Microchip implantation record confirming ISO‑compatible 15‑digit number.
Import permit or authority‑issued clearance from the destination country, when required.
Airline-specific animal transport form, completed with flight details, crate dimensions, and owner information.

All documents should be original or notarized copies, translated into the official language of the destination if necessary, and presented at check‑in and customs inspection. Failure to meet any crate criterion or to provide a required document results in travel denial or quarantine. Maintaining strict adherence ensures smooth transit and compliance with international regulations.

5.2 Customs Declaration Forms

Customs declaration forms are mandatory for any animal crossing an international border. They serve as the official record of the dog’s origin, health status, and travel itinerary. Failure to submit a correctly completed form can result in quarantine, denial of entry, or fines.

The form must be obtained from the destination country’s veterinary or customs authority, often available online or at the airport’s animal handling office. It should be printed on official letterhead, signed by a licensed veterinarian, and stamped with the veterinary clinic’s seal.

Key elements to include:

Owner’s full name, address, and contact details.
Dog’s breed, age, sex, microchip number, and passport number.
Country of departure, transit points, and final destination.
Dates of vaccination, deworming, and any recent treatments.
Results of the required health certificate, indicating that the animal is free from contagious diseases.
Declaration that the dog complies with the destination’s import regulations, including breed restrictions and quarantine exemptions.

Submission guidelines vary by jurisdiction. Some countries require the form to be presented at the point of entry, while others accept electronic copies uploaded in advance. In all cases, keep a duplicate for personal records and be prepared to show supporting documents, such as the rabies vaccination certificate and the pet passport.

Common errors include omitted microchip information, mismatched dates, and unsigned sections. Review the completed form against the official checklist provided by the destination’s authority before travel. Accurate, complete documentation expedites clearance and minimizes the risk of delays.

5.3 Power of Attorney (if someone else is traveling with your dog)

When a companion other than the owner will accompany the dog across borders, a Power of Attorney (PoA) authorizes that person to act on the owner’s behalf for all veterinary, customs, and airline procedures. The document must be clear, legally binding, and accepted by the authorities of both the departure and destination countries.

The PoA should include:

Full names, passport numbers, and contact details of the owner and the appointed representative.
Description of the dog (breed, registration number, microchip ID, vaccination record).
Specific powers granted, such as signing health certificates, presenting vaccination documents, completing customs declarations, and signing airline release forms.
Effective dates covering the entire travel period.
Statement of revocation, if the owner wishes to terminate the authority before travel.
Signature of the owner, witnessed by a notary public or other authorized official.

Legal formalities vary by jurisdiction. In most cases, the PoA must be notarized and, when the destination country requires it, apostilled or legalized by the appropriate consular office. After notarization, the document should be translated into the official language of the destination, using a certified translator, and the translation must be attached to the original.

Before the journey, the representative should verify that airlines and border agencies accept the PoA format presented. Carry both the original and a certified copy during travel, and store them in a secure, easily accessible location, such as a travel document holder. If multiple representatives are involved, issue separate PoAs to avoid confusion.

By preparing a precise, notarized, and properly translated Power of Attorney, owners ensure that the designated companion can manage all regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of delays or refusals at border checkpoints.