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The custom and VAT rules are very similar to other countries in the European Union.

It is not advisable to transport perishable foods. Additionally, it is beneficial to check the temporary export/import ban to prevent exposure to specific diseases that can be spread through food or animal products.

If you have an illness that regularly requires medication, be sure to find out if the prescriptions are available at local pharmacies. Individuals requiring continuous medication may carry the medicines prescribed by their physician in a quantity that may be needed during the journey. Tranquilizers, stimulants, and hallucinogenic drugs are prohibited.

Protected species and products thereof as listed by the Washington Convention (for example ivory, tortoise shell, coral, reptile skin, wood from Amazonian forests) are prohibited.

If a traveler wishes to transport a firearm, the lawful possession of hunting or sporting guns may be certified with a gun license issued in the country of residence of the licensee, and as for firearms, with a European Firearms Pass.

Restricted Items:

• Pets need to be identifiable and vaccinated against rabies and have a health certificate. For more information, refer to the guide below.
• Maximum of 10 kg of meat, milk and dairy products coming from Croatia, Færøer Islands, Greenland and Iceland
• Powdered milk for babies, food for children and special medical food (including pets food) may be allowed if they need not to be refrigerated prior opening and that it is brand packaged food and the packaging has original seal (unless in use at the time) and its quantity must not exceed the weight of 10 kg originating from Croatia, Færøer Islands, Greenland and Iceland, and of 2 kg if originating in other countries.
• Fish is allowed if it is disemboweled and does not exceed the weight of 20 kg.
• Currency has no restrictions if coming from EU country.
• Coats, fur and leather shoes made of protected animals will need special authorization

Budapest customs and VAT includes more information on customs requirements in Hungary.

Bringing Pets to Hungary

EU citizens or long-term future residents of Hungary who wish to transport their pet overseas must have a pet passport. The pet passport is valid for a single vaccination period. If non-EU travelers wish to transport their pet for a short-stay visit, they must have a veterinary certificate issued for a single entry. The Animal Health and Animal Welfare Directorate regulates all transport of pets into Hungary.

If you want to bring your pet abroad, it can be done but takes planning and preparation. Taking your pet into another country usually includes:

• Microchipping - Verifies pets identity. All microchips conforming to the ISO standards are easily readable.
• Vaccination - Every pet older than 3 months must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before arrival and cannot be older than 12 months from the date of arrival. Dogs may also get full shots for Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvo, and DHLPP. Cats may also be vaccinated against Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calcivirus, and Panleukopenia.
• Certificate of Good Health - Issued by a vet after an exam. You will usually need to get an official form from the Hungarian consulate or embassy.. It is often available on-line from the customs website.

Transporting Animals into Hungary

Some airlines allow pets to travel in an airplane's cabin, provided their cage is small enough to fit under your seat. Small birds may also be able to travel in the cabin, but tropical birds such as parrots are usually not allowed.

If your pet's cage does not fit under your seat, you will have to ship it as checked baggage. Since the outside air temperature also affects the temperature in the cargo bay, airlines may restrict the transportation of pets during certain times of the year. Airlines have special requirements for containers in the cabin and cargo bay. Make sure you get detailed information from your preferred airlines before purchasing a cage or kennel.

Before leaving, acquaint your animal with the kennel or container. Add some familiar toys or some of your clothing items, so your pet has a sense of familiarity during the transport. Sedation of your pet during the trip is generally not recommended and should only be used as a last resort.

There are also pet relocation services that figure out all the details of the move. These services tend to be quite expensive, but take away the stress of doing it yourself.

For more information, please refer to Easy Expat's article on Expat Pets.

Custom's Resources

U.S. Citizens: The free pamphlet "Know Before You Go" at http://www.cbp.gov/is very helpful. (Click on "Travel" and then click on "Know Before You Go! Online Brochure").

Canadian Citizens: "I Declare", issued by the Canada Border Services Agency (tel. 800/461-9999 in Canada, or 204/983-3500 ) is helpful.

Australian Citizens: A helpful brochure is available from Australian consulates or Customs offices called "Know Before You Go". Call the Australian Customs Service at tel. 1300/363-263, or log on to http://www.customs.gov.au/.