Abstract This Scientific Report identifies the potential entry pathways for 25 selected vector‐borne diseases (VBDs) into currently free EU Member States. The diseases comprise 12 listed under the Animal Health Law (AHL) and 13 non‐listed diseases, selected using predefined eligibility criteria. The report represents a preparatory step supporting subsequent EU‐level risk assessments of disease introduction, spread and impact, with emphasis on pathway identification rather than risk estimation. Evidence was collected through structured narrative literature reviews, complemented by expert judgement. Entry pathways were classified as vector‐related or non‐vectorial. A conservative, inclusion‐based approach was applied, whereby only pathways considered with high certainty to be epidemiologically irrelevant were excluded. For tick‐borne pathogens, the only potential vector‐related entry pathway is the movement of ticks attached to livestock, wildlife or pets. For sandfly‐borne pathogens, entry may occur through local dispersal and gradual expansion of established vector populations. For Culicoides‐borne pathogens, wind‐borne dispersal of adult midges, including over long distances, is considered a potential entry pathway, while active flight and vehicle‐associated transport are relevant only over short distances. For mosquito‐borne pathogens, the introduction of adult mosquitoes via aircraft is considered a potential entry pathway for all pathogens addressed. For West Nile virus, additional potential pathways include active flight from neighbouring affected areas, expansion of mosquito populations and wind‐assisted dispersal. For pathogens mechanically transmitted by biting flies (lumpy skin disease virus, Besnoitia besnoiti and equine infectious anaemia virus), vector‐related entry pathways are limited to active movement and short‐distance wind dispersal within areas where the pathogens are already present in the EU, with passive transport via land vehicles considered a plausible additional pathway. Non‐vectorial pathways mainly involve the movement of live animals via livestock trade, companion animal movements or wildlife migration when infected hosts enter areas with competent vectors. Germinal products are considered only for pathogens with demonstrated vertical transmission, while products of animal origin are relevant for a limited subset of pathogens. Overall, the report provides a structured framework to support EU‐level assessment of VBD introduction pathways.
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