Complete Guide to Pet Quarantine Requirements in Japan

Bringing your beloved pet to Japan requires careful planning and understanding of the country's strict quarantine regulations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process to ensure a smooth transition for your furry family member.

Understanding Japan's Pet Import System

Japan's Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) operates under the Rabies Prevention Law and the Domestic Animal Infectious Diseases Control Law. The system is designed to prevent the introduction of rabies and other infectious diseases into the country. Understanding these regulations is crucial for pet owners planning to relocate to Japan.

The quarantine period can range from 0 days to 180 days, depending on how well you prepare and comply with the pre-export requirements. With proper planning and documentation, most pets can qualify for the shortest quarantine period or even immediate release upon arrival.

The Two-Tier Quarantine System

Designated Regions (Shorter Quarantine)

Pets arriving from designated regions including Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Hawaii, and Guam may qualify for a quarantine period of 12 hours or less if all pre-export requirements are met. These regions are considered rabies-free or have effective rabies control programs.

• Australia
• New Zealand
• Fiji Islands
• Hawaii (USA)
• Guam (USA)

Non-Designated Regions

Pets from all other countries and regions can still qualify for shortened quarantine (12 hours or less) by completing all required procedures correctly. However, failure to meet any requirement will result in quarantine periods ranging from 12 hours to 180 days.

Step-by-Step Pre-Export Requirements

Step 1: Microchip Implantation

The first and most critical step is microchip implantation. The microchip must be ISO 11784 or 11785 compliant (15-digit). This must be done before any rabies vaccinations are administered. If your pet already has a non-compliant microchip, a new ISO-compliant chip must be implanted, and all subsequent vaccinations must be repeated.

Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations

Your pet must receive two rabies vaccinations, with specific timing requirements:

• First vaccination must be administered at least 30 days after microchip implantation
• Second vaccination must be given at least 30 days after the first vaccination
• Both vaccinations must be administered within their validity period (typically 1-3 years depending on the vaccine)
• The vaccine must be inactivated or recombinant type

Step 3: Rabies Antibody Test

After the second rabies vaccination, a blood sample must be taken and tested at an approved laboratory. The test must show a rabies antibody titer of 0.5 IU/ml or higher. This is one of the most critical requirements for avoiding the 180-day quarantine.

Step 4: 180-Day Waiting Period

This is often the most challenging aspect for pet owners. After the blood sample is collected for the antibody test, you must wait 180 days before your pet can qualify for the shortened quarantine period. This waiting period cannot be waived or shortened under any circumstances.

Step 5: Advance Notification

You must submit an advance notification to the Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days before your pet's arrival in Japan. This can be done online through the NACCS system or by submitting a paper form. The notification must include:

• Pet owner's information
• Pet's details (species, breed, age, sex, microchip number)
• Arrival date and airport
• Exporting country information
• Vaccination and test records

Required Documentation

Proper documentation is essential for a smooth quarantine process. You will need:

• Export Certificate: Issued by the government authority of the exporting country, confirming all requirements have been met
• Vaccination Certificates: Original certificates for all rabies vaccinations
• Antibody Test Results: Original laboratory report showing adequate antibody levels
• Microchip Certificate: Documentation of microchip implantation
• Import Permit: Advance notification confirmation from Japanese AQS

Quarantine Facilities and Procedures

Japan has Animal Quarantine Service offices at major airports including Narita, Haneda, Kansai, and Chubu. If your pet requires quarantine beyond 12 hours, they will be housed in government-operated quarantine facilities. These facilities provide:

• Individual kennels with climate control
• Daily feeding and exercise
• Veterinary care and monitoring
• Regular health checks

Pet owners are allowed to visit their pets during quarantine, but visiting hours are limited. The quarantine fee is approximately 3,000 yen per day, which covers accommodation and basic care.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Timeline Example

Here's a typical timeline for bringing a pet from a non-designated region to Japan:

Professional Assistance

While it's possible to handle the pet import process independently, many pet owners choose to work with professional pet relocation services. These specialists can help ensure all requirements are met correctly and on time, reducing the risk of extended quarantine or entry denial.

Professional services typically include assistance with documentation, coordination with veterinarians and laboratories, advance notification submission, and airport pickup arrangements. The peace of mind and expertise they provide can be invaluable, especially for first-time pet importers.

Conclusion

Successfully bringing your pet to Japan requires careful planning, attention to detail, and patience. By starting the process early and following all requirements precisely, you can ensure your pet qualifies for the shortest possible quarantine period. Remember that the 180-day waiting period is mandatory and cannot be shortened, so plan your move accordingly.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your pet's relocation to Japan, don't hesitate to consult with experienced professionals who can guide you through every step of the process.