International Veterinary CE in 2027: How to Choose a CE Trip

By Bethany Weinheimer, DVM · Updated October 20, 2026 · 6 min read

International veterinary CE combines the continuing education hours you need for your license with travel somewhere you actually want to go. Instead of a conference hall, you learn in a small group from a specialist, then spend the rest of the day on wildlife, food, culture or rest. Here's how to choose a trip that counts for your license and is worth your PTO.

1. Make sure the CE will count

Most US state veterinary boards accept CE approved through RACE, the Registry of Approved Continuing Education run by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). RACE approval is tied to the program and the provider, not the location, so RACE CE earned abroad counts the same way it does at home.

Each board still sets its own rules, such as how many hours you need per renewal cycle and how many can be online versus in person. Before you book, check your board's current requirements and ask the trip provider for the RACE program number for each session.

2. Compare what's really included

Prices vary a lot because inclusions vary a lot. When comparing trips, line up:

CE hours, and whether every session is RACE-approved
Lodging, and how many meals are included
Excursions and animal experiences, and whether they cost extra
Airport transfers and in-country transport
Whether flights are included (usually not)
Group size and who teaches

A trip that looks cheaper can cost more once excursions, transfers and meals are added. A receipt that lists the CE value separately also matters if you plan to use a CE allowance.

3. Choose the group size and format that fits you

Large conferences offer many tracks and a big exhibit hall. Small-group CE trips trade that for access: one specialist, real case discussion, and time to ask questions over dinner. Vet Passport groups are capped at 18 people.

Think about format too. All-inclusive journeys run about a week and cover a full CE cycle's worth of hours in one go. Short getaways of three or four days fit around a busy schedule with fewer hours.

4. Check the animal experiences

For veterinary professionals this matters. Look for experiences built around welfare and conservation, such as working sanctuaries, rehabilitation centers and conservation projects, rather than shows or handling for photos. Ask the provider who runs each experience and how animals are cared for.

5. Plan how you'll pay for it

Many practices let you put your CE allowance toward travel CE when the CE portion is documented. See how to get your practice to pay for CE travel, and if you own a practice or are self-employed, read whether veterinary CE travel is tax deductible.

2027 international veterinary CE trips

The 2027 CE calendar lists every international veterinary CE trip we know of, from Vet Passport and other providers, and our comparison of veterinary CE travel companies lines up formats and prices. Vet Passport's 2027 trips include South Africa (exotics and wildlife with rhino conservation), Tuscany, Peru, Jordan, Hawaii and Rio for New Year's Eve.

Frequently asked questions

Does veterinary CE earned abroad count toward my US license?

Usually yes, if it's RACE-approved. Most US state veterinary boards accept RACE CE regardless of where it's earned. Boards set their own limits, so check your board's current rules before you book.

How many CE hours do international veterinary CE trips offer?

It varies by provider and trip length. Vet Passport's week-long journeys offer 15 CE hours and short getaways offer 12.

How much does an international veterinary CE trip cost?

It depends on the destination, length and what's included. Vet Passport's 2027 trips range from $1,550 for a short Hawaii getaway to $12,750 for Rio over New Year's Eve, excluding flights.

Can non-veterinarians come on a veterinary CE trip?

On Vet Passport trips, yes. The CE Traveler ticket is for veterinary professionals, and the Explorer ticket is for partners, friends and animal lovers who skip the CE sessions.

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About the author. Bethany Weinheimer, DVM. Founder, Vet Passport and The Evolved Vets. Career emergency veterinarian. More about Vet Passport.