Cats and dogs are subject to special regulations (EC) No. 998/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council. Birds: Import licence for birds and poultry required. Exceptions: parakeets and parrots up to a number of 3 may be imported without import licence provided holding a health certificate which is issued within 10 days stating that there were no diseases related to these birds within the last 30 days in the area where the bird was kept. The health certificate should have a german translation. Prohibited: -- effective until further notice, the import of pet birds & poultry and derived products coming from Cambodia, China (People Rep.), Hong Kong (SAR China), Indonesia, Japan, Korea (Rep.), Laos, Pakistan, Thailand and Vietnam, in connection with Avian influenza infection risk -- import of meat and meat products from: countries included in C.I.S. (see Terms & Definitions), Portugal, Sardinia, Spain, Turkey and all countries of Africa and Asia. For more information contact the nearest embassy of Germany. A maximum number of 3 animals may be imported without prior authorization (exception: artists needing dogs/cats for the purpose of their profession may import more than 3 dogs/cats without prior authorization). Pets may enter as passenger checked baggage, in the cabin or as cargo.