Flying to Japan with a pet

Entry requirements at a glance

Microchip

Required

Confirm accepted identification, scan records and the required sequence with vaccination for your exact route. A chip requirement alone does not establish that your records meet it.

Rabies vaccine

For dogs and cats from non-designated regions: at least two valid rabies vaccinations after microchipping. The first must be given at 91 days of age or older; the second at least 30 days later and while the first is still valid. Maintain valid coverage through arrival and confirm that the vaccine type is accepted by AQS.

Health certificate

Obtain government-endorsed certification containing the information required by Japan's Animal Quarantine Service (AQS). Use the current AQS-recommended documents and confirm the U.S. export certification process with your accredited veterinarian; a generic APHIS 7001 form should not be assumed sufficient.

Rabies titer test

For non-designated regions, an approved laboratory must report rabies antibodies of at least 0.5 IU/mL. Blood may be drawn on the same day as the second rabies vaccination. The usual waiting period is 180 days from blood sampling to arrival, with the sampling date counted as day 0. The result is generally valid for 2 years; continuous vaccination and repeat-test exceptions must be checked with AQS.

Quarantine on arrival

AQS determines release after arrival inspection. Pets arriving before the required waiting period is complete may be detained for the remaining period. Confirm any other inspection or detention conditions with the arrival port.

Breed restrictions / bans

Check the destination municipality's dog rules and your carrier's breed restrictions with the relevant authorities before booking.