What it actually is
The EU Pet Passport is a standardized booklet that records your pet’s identity (microchip), rabies vaccination history and other treatments. It lets dogs, cats and ferrets move freely between EU countries without extra paperwork.
Who can get one
Passports are issued by an authorized vet to residents of the EU (and a few associated countries). If you live outside the EU, you generally travel on an EU animal health certificate instead — issued close to departure and valid for a single entry.
The one date that matters most
A rabies vaccination is only valid for travel if it was given after the microchip and at least 21 days before you cross the border. Get the order wrong and the clock restarts.