Moving to Japan with pets

Veterinarian checking a microchip and recording pet identification

Overview: Japan's approach to pet import

Japan treats animal imports carefully to protect its rabies-free status and public health. The Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) enforces requirements for identification, vaccination, blood testing, endorsed health documents, and advance notification. When all rules are followed, arrival inspection is usually quick; noncompliance can lead to quarantine, return to origin, or worse outcomes [2].

Start planning months ahead and confirm specifics with AQS and your local export authority [2][4].

Microchip and identification requirements

All dogs and cats must be permanently identified by an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip. If your microchip uses a different standard, you must provide your own reader at arrival or re‑chip your pet with an ISO-compliant device before exporting [2]. Implant the microchip before any rabies vaccinations so the chip number appears on all documents.

Rabies vaccination and antibody (FAVN) test

Pets must receive rabies vaccinations after the microchip is implanted. A documented vaccination history is required. In most cases a rabies neutralizing antibody test (FAVN or equivalent) performed at a laboratory approved by Japan is also required; the test must meet Japan’s threshold for acceptance and be done at an approved lab [2][4]. Timing matters: there are minimum and maximum windows between vaccination, blood sampling, and arrival—check AQS guidance for the exact schedule.

Veterinary health certificate and government endorsement

A veterinarian must issue a health certificate stating that the animal is fit to travel and listing vaccines and tests. This certificate usually must be endorsed by your government’s competent authority (for example, USDA APHIS endorsement for U.S. exports) to be valid for entry to Japan [4]. Keep originals and copies handy for the airline and AQS inspection [3][4].

Advance notification and arrival inspection

Advance notification to the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) prior to arrival is mandatory; notification timing and process depend on the port/airport [2]. On arrival, AQS conducts an inspection of documents and the animal. If paperwork and tests meet Japan’s standards, the inspection is often completed within a day. If something is missing or invalid, the AQS may impose quarantine, require return to the origin country, or authorize other measures [2][3].

Quarantine rules and possible outcomes

If requirements are not satisfied, quarantine of up to 180 days is possible. Other outcomes include repatriation at the owner’s expense or, in extreme cases where public health is at risk, euthanasia. Most problems arise from missing endorsements, improper timing of the FAVN test, or non-ISO microchips—so follow each step closely to avoid these scenarios [2][3].

Airline transport, crates, and IATA rules

Airlines follow the IATA Live Animals Regulations and may impose additional restrictions or seasonal embargoes (heat/cold) on routes. Crate type, size, ventilation, and labeling must meet IATA standards and the airline’s own requirements. Confirm with your carrier well before booking, because acceptance rules and required paperwork can vary by airline and even by flight [1].

Airline cargo hold with an IATA-compliant pet crate being loaded

Suggested timeline and practical checklist

Months 3–6 before travel: Verify AQS rules for your origin country/port and confirm which laboratories are approved for the FAVN test [2].
2–4 months before travel: Implant an ISO-compliant microchip (or arrange for an ISO reader) and record the number on all documents.
After microchip: Administer the required rabies vaccinations and keep detailed records.
As required by AQS: Have a blood draw for the FAVN test at an approved lab and wait for the result and certificate [2][4].
When eligible: Obtain a government-endorsed health certificate (e.g., USDA APHIS endorsement for U.S. pets) [4].
Book flights and confirm airline crate rules and seasonal restrictions; provide airlines with required paperwork in advance [1].
Notify AQS of arrival details per their instructions and prepare originals for inspection at the port [2].

Tips, exceptions, and further resources

Work with a vet experienced in international export documentation and with your national animal health authority to avoid timing mistakes [4].
Keep digital and paper copies of all records. A missing endorsement or mismatched microchip number is a common reason for quarantine [3].
Some countries have specific bilateral arrangements or approved-lab lists—always verify whether your lab is accepted by Japan before testing [2][4].
Consider hiring a pet relocation specialist if you have multiple animals, complex itineraries, or strict timing needs; they can coordinate testing, endorsements, and airline requirements.

Owner preparing paperwork and health certificate before travel

Final notes

Japan’s system is strict but predictable: follow the sequence—ISO microchip, rabies vaccinations, approved FAVN test, endorsed health certificate, AQS notification, and airline compliance—and you’ll greatly reduce the chance of delays or quarantine. Always consult AQS guidance for the latest rules and your national export authority (for example, APHIS for U.S. exports) for endorsement procedures [2][4].

How CallButler Can Help

CallButler is a multilingual concierge service that handles research, coordination, and bookings so you do not have to navigate language barriers or unfamiliar systems alone. If you need help related to Moving to Japan with pets or the tasks around it, our team can step in to manage the details and keep things moving smoothly.