Bringing Your Pet to Japan: Complete Quarantine & Import Guide

Overview

Japan has strict animal import regulations designed to keep the country rabies-free. The process takes a minimum of 7 months from start to finish, so planning ahead is essential. This guide covers the complete process for bringing dogs and cats to Japan.

Step 1: Microchip (Month 1)

Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip before any vaccinations. If your pet already has a non-ISO microchip, you'll need to bring your own reader to Japan.

• ISO standard: 15-digit, 134.2 kHz
• Must be implanted before rabies vaccination
• Keep the microchip certificate safe — you'll need it multiple times

Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations (Month 1-2)

After microchipping, your pet needs two rabies vaccinations at least 30 days apart.

• First vaccination: at least 30 days after microchip
• Second vaccination: at least 30 days after first
• Inactivated or recombinant vaccines only
• Must be administered by a licensed veterinarian

Step 3: Blood Test (FAVN Test) (Month 2-3)

After the second rabies vaccination, a blood test (FAVN — Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) must be performed.

• Blood sample taken at least 30 days after second vaccination
• Must be tested at a MAFF-approved laboratory
• Result must show **0.5 IU/ml or higher**
• The 180-day waiting period starts from the blood draw date
• Approved labs: Kansas State University (USA), AHVLA Weybridge (UK), and others

Step 4: 180-Day Waiting Period (Month 3-9)

The longest part of the process. Your pet must wait 180 days from the FAVN test blood draw date before entering Japan.

• Your pet can stay in its home country during this period
• If you arrive before 180 days, your pet will be quarantined at the airport (up to 180 days)
• Use this time to complete other paperwork

Step 5: Import Notification (40 days before arrival)

Submit the "Advance Notification" form to MAFF (Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries).

• Submit online at: MAFF NACCS system
• Required at least 40 days before arrival
• Include flight details, pet details, and FAVN test results
• You'll receive a notification number

Step 6: Health Certificate (within 10 days of departure)

Get an official health certificate from a government-approved veterinarian in your home country.

• Must be issued within 10 days of departure
• Endorsed by your country's government veterinary authority (USDA in the USA, APHA in the UK)
• Confirms rabies vaccination, microchip, and general health

Step 7: Arrival in Japan

At the airport, present all documents at the Animal Quarantine Service counter.

• Inspection usually takes 1-3 hours if all paperwork is complete
• If everything is in order, your pet is released same day
• Missing or incorrect documents = quarantine detention (up to 180 days)

Cost Estimate

Important Notes

• Puppies and kittens under 90 days old cannot be imported
• Some dog breeds may face additional restrictions depending on your airline
• The process is the same whether you're a tourist or relocating
• Hawaii-origin pets may qualify for a shorter process
• Keep certified copies of all documents