Guide to Moving to Japan With a Dog: Tips & Advice
- Global Paws
- May 7
- 6 min read
Relocating to Japan is an exciting adventure, and bringing your furry companion along makes it as special as possible! Let’s be real: moving to Japan with a dog is not as simple as booking a flight and packing their favourite chew toy.
Japan has strict pet import regulations; a single step would mean unexpected quarantine time for your pup.
Luckily, this guide will explain everything you need to know for your pleasant journey with your dog.
Understanding Japan’s Pet Import Regulations
Japan is a rabies-free country and is serious about keeping it that way. That means strict rules regarding pet imports.
Here is what you need to keep in mind:
You must comply with the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) requirements, with no exceptions!
Your dog must meet Japan’s rabies-free regulations, which include vaccinations, tests, and paperwork (lots of paperwork!).
If you want to skip the whole quarantine drama, planning will be the ace up your sleeve to do so! Let’s be honest: quarantine is no fun for anyone, humans or pets! With a little time and strategic planning, you will easily avoid quarantine and keep things stress-free.
For complete peace of mind, trust Global Paws! Feel welcome to take a look at our excellent work efforts here!
Steps to Prepare Your Dog for the Move
Are you thinking about moving to Japan with a dog? It is a great idea to start getting your dog or cat ready for the move early. Japan has specific pet rules, so the sooner you begin the process, the smoother it will be for both of you.
1. Microchip Requirements
Don’t forget that a microchip that meets international standards is a must! It serves as your dog’s official ID for the journey!
Your dog's microchip must also follow ISO 11784 and 11785 standards, with a 15-digit number made up only of numbers. To avoid any issues, make sure it can be scanned by a reader at a veterinary hospital.
Precautions!
If your pet's microchip doesn't meet ISO standards, please contact the Animal Quarantine Service at your entry port. If your reader cannot read the microchip, you must provide one that can.
An unskippable note! Microchip numbers starting with “900 202” are currently being investigated for validity. These microchips are not accepted as identification (as of 7 April 2023).
2. Rabies Vaccination
Before moving to Japan with a dog, your pup must receive two rabies vaccinations within a specific time frame.
Timing of Vaccination
First Rabies Vaccination: Your pet needs to be at least 91 days old and vaccinated after the microchip is implanted (this can be done on the same day).
Second Rabies Vaccination: It must be done more than 30 days after the first one and within the effective period*** of the first vaccine.
***Note: The effective period refers to the vaccine's duration of immunity, not the vaccine's expiration date.
Remember, there must be a 30-day gap between the two rabies shots. If you are up to date, you can move on to the next step right away. If not, you will have to wait 30 days before continuing.
Accepted Vaccines
Inactivated (killed) virus vaccine
Recombinant/modified live virus vaccine
Precautions
If the rabies vaccine expires before arrival, you will need another shot within the valid period.
A vaccine given after the first expiration is not accepted, and you will need to start the process over.
Vaccines before microchip implantation are invalid, but may be accepted under certain conditions.
Live virus vaccines are not allowed.
Japan requires the first rabies vaccination after 91 days of age.
3. Rabies Antibody Test
Ensure the test is done at an approved lab within Japan’s specified timeline.
Here is the scoop:
To get your dog or cat ready for travel, the blood sample for the rabies test must be taken after the second rabies vaccination.
Bonus:
You can do the vaccination and the blood test on the same day!
Please check the list of approved labs (found here). The key is that the rabies antibody level must be at least 0.5 IU/ml to pass the test.
What You Need to Know:
Get the blood sample taken while the rabies vaccination is still valid.
They will check the test results during the import inspection.
No lab in your country? No problem! Just send the sample to one of the approved labs abroad.
Remember to include an inspection certificate from the exporting country’s government if you're sending it to Japan. Japan has an easy certification form for dog serum (available in PDF or Word format).
To ensure smooth passage through customs, mark “dog serum” on the international mail form and add “Animal Quarantine Required” to the package.
If you are sending the blood sample to another country, double-check the export/import rules. Contact the lab if you have any questions about the antibody test. Also, your pet will need a retest if the antibody level is under 0.5 IU/ml.
Seems complicated? No need for complication! By trusting our services, you will save time and preparation!
4. Pre-arrival Notification
Moving to Japan with a dog requires sending a notification form to Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) by email at least 40 days before your pet’s arrival.
Here are the forms you need:
Notification form for dogs (PDF: 139KB) (EXCEL: 55KB)
Notification form for cats (PDF: 137KB) (EXCEL: 55KB)
How to fill in the notification (PDF: 384KB). You can also submit online via the NACCS system.
For contact details of the Animal Quarantine Service at airports or seaports, check the contact list (PDF: 107KB).
5. Approval of Import Inspection of Animals
Once AQS reviews your notification and related documents, they will issue the Approval of Import Inspection of Animals. Be sure to print or save this approval for export or boarding procedures.
Modifications to the Notification
If you need to change your notification, submit a Modification on Notification of Import of Animals form by email to AQS.
Here is the modification form:
If you used NACCS to submit, note that any changes must be made through NACCS.
Important Notes!
Dogs can only enter Japan through designated airports and seaports.
Notifications submitted less than 40 days before arrival will not be accepted.
To streamline the process, include copies of necessary documents (e.g., rabies antibody test report, export quarantine certificate, etc.) with your notification.
Modifications like moving up the arrival date, increasing the number of pets, or replacing animals are not accepted in principle.
They may not issue the approval form for errors or missing information.
If the quarantine facility is full, you may need to change the arrival date or port of entry.
Tips for Moving to Japan With a Dog
1. Choosing a Dog-Friendly Airline
Not all airlines are the same regarding pet travel, so choosing one that accommodates your dog's size and breed, whether in the cabin or cargo, is important. With Global Paws, you don’t need to worry; we can serve the best for you and your pooch.
Furthermore, your furry friend will need a travel crate that meets the airline and IATA standards. This crate will be their home during the trip, so make sure it is cosy and comforting for them!
Check out our IATA Compliant Crate here!
2. Ensure a Comfortable Flight
Ensure your dog stays hydrated and is not overly full before the flight to prevent discomfort. Also, don’t forget to pack some essentials, like their favourite blanket and treats. These little efforts will help keep them calm and happy throughout the journey!
3. Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodation
Moving to Japan with a dog should be a fun experience for both of you. But not all apartments in Japan are pet-friendly, so starting your search for pet-friendly housing early is a wonderful idea.
However, Japan does have dog-friendly parks and public spaces. Each area has pet policies, so familiarise yourself with the rules before you go!
Also Read: 5 Most Visited Dog-Friendly Stores in Japan
4. Registering Your Dog Locally
Once you arrive, you must register your dog with the local authorities. Also, make sure you find a reliable veterinarian. This will be irreplaceable for any follow-up care, promoting your pup's health and happiness in its new home.
Moving to Japan with a dog may feel overwhelming, but with the right planning, it is doable! As your time is precious and paperwork, flights, and stress are tedious, Global Paws is here to help.
With over 20 years of experience in international pet relocations, we handle everything. Contact us today, and let’s make this move paw-some!
About Global Paws:
Global Paws is a family-owned business with over 20 years of experience in pet travel and relocation. We know your pets are part of your family, and we care for them like they are part of ours. As proud members of the International Pet & Animal Transport Association (IPATA) and certified by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animals Regulations (LAR), we’re committed to making sure they travel safely and comfortably.
What sets us apart is the extra care we provide. Every pet is treated like family, and we make sure their journey is safe and stress-free, no matter where they are headed.
We believe every pet deserves a first-class experience, and we are here to make sure they are comfortable from start to finish. Our experience, backed by IPATA and IATA, gives you peace of mind knowing your pet’s journey is in safe, loving hands.
Then, are you ready to give VIP treatment for your furry friend? Visit our website to book your pet’s dream vacation today!
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