Pet Transport from Switzerland to Greece
Switzerland to Greece is straightforward. Greece recognises Swiss pet documentation under the EU-Swiss bilateral veterinary agreement, which means the process mirrors intra-EU travel. A Swiss pet passport with a valid microchip and rabies vaccination is …
The Switzerland to Greece import process
Every step must be completed in sequence. A single missed deadline can add months to your timeline. We own the entire process.
Responsible: Your Swiss veterinarian
Responsible: You
Responsible: You
What your pet needs to enter Greece
Every item must be verified before your pet can board. We track each one against current standards.
What this route typically costs
Critical points
Switzerland's bilateral agreement with the EU means the process is equivalent to intra-EU travel. No extra documentation is required.
Confirm pet space when booking -- cabin pet spots fill quickly in summer (peak Greece travel season).
Approved carriers for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals. We book only with carriers that handle live animal cargo correctly.
What documents do I need to take my pet from Switzerland to Greece?
A valid Swiss pet passport is accepted in Greece. The passport must record your pet’s microchip number and a valid rabies vaccination. The 21-day wait after any primary vaccination applies.
There is no titre test, no quarantine, and no import permit required. Greece’s MINAGRIC (Ministry of Rural Development and Food) manages pet imports and applies EU-aligned standards to Switzerland-origin animals.
At Athens airport, a border official may inspect the passport. This is a routine check and typically takes a few minutes.
SWISS vs Aegean: which airline for Zurich to Athens?
Both SWISS and Aegean Airlines offer Zurich to Athens service. SWISS operates from its Zurich base and accepts small pets in cabin. Aegean is Greece’s main carrier, with staff at Athens Airport familiar with MINAGRIC requirements.
For a small pet in cabin (under 8kg including carrier), either airline is a good choice. Check both schedules and compare the cabin pet fee (typically CHF 50-90).
For a larger dog, cargo is required. SWISS Cargo and Aegean’s cargo division both handle pet transport on this route. The Zurich to Athens flight is approximately 2.5 hours – a manageable journey for cargo.
Can I take my dog on a ferry from Switzerland to Greece instead?
Technically yes – many pet owners drive through France and Italy to take the ferry from Venice, Ancona, or Bari to Greece. For this route, your Swiss pet passport is also accepted at the ferry port. The border check is the same.
The overland ferry route is popular for owners with large dogs who cannot fly in cabin. Budget 2-3 days for the drive plus 12-24 hours on the ferry. Your pet can accompany you in the vehicle on most Greek ferry routes.