Importing and exporting animals and plants

The import requirements for animals vary according to species and country of origin. Domestic pets taken out of the country by a traveller and brought back into it are generally exempt from taxation, but there are vaccination requirements applying to them.

In general, there are different import requirements in force when animals are imported from other EU Member States than when they are imported from outside the EU. The import requirements are also affected by the situation with animal diseases in the country of origin. In the event of an animal disease breaking out, the import requirements may change rapidly.

Travellers may encounter trading in endangered species - animals, plants or souvenirs made from parts of them. Before you purchase a product, make sure about its origin. Also make sure whether you need an export or import licence.

Information about import and export restrictions on animals, plants and timber can be obtained from Evira, the Finnish Customs and the Finnish Environment Institute.