Equine Passport and Microchip: Legal Obligations in Spain

In Spain and throughout the EU, equines must have a microchip and an Equine Identification Document (EID), commonly known as an equine passport. These documents are not optional administrative formalities: they are part of health traceability and a legal requirement with penalties for non-compliance.

Legal framework

Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/963 regulates the electronic and documentary identification of equines. In Spain, Royal Decree 676/2022 and regional regulations specify the procedures. Any equine born or residing in the country must be identified before 12 months of age and always before any movement off the holding.

The microchip

It is a transponder the size of a grain of rice that is implanted in the nuchal ligament subcutaneously using a specific syringe. It is placed exclusively by a veterinarian. The unique number identifies the animal for life. Standard microchip readers can scan it in seconds. It is painless and scanning equipment is widely available.

The Equine Identification Document (EID)

It is the horse's physical passport. It contains: identification of the horse (coat color, markings, microchip), owner, holding register, vaccination record, veterinary treatments, and, where applicable, exclusion from human consumption. It is issued by authorized breed associations or entities partnered with the administration.

Movement and traceability

To move a horse between holdings, you need a valid EID and, depending on the destination and purpose, an origin and destination health certificate. Taking a horse to a competition, a distant equine veterinarian, a different holding, or exporting it requires complete paperwork. Inspections are common in areas with a high concentration of equines.

What to do if the passport is lost

The loss of an EID must be reported to the issuing entity and a duplicate must be requested. The microchip allows the animal to be identified and the history to be reconstructed. In the meantime, the horse cannot be legally moved between holdings. Duplicates carry an identifier indicating they replace a lost original document.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to get a passport?

Between €80 and €200 depending on the breed and issuing entity, including the veterinarian for the microchip and official identification.

What happens if I have a horse without a passport?

It is a punishable offense. It must be regularized immediately through a veterinarian and the corresponding issuing entity.

Is it mandatory for ponies and donkeys?

Yes. The regulation applies to all equines (horses, ponies, donkeys, mules).