Flying to Japan with a pet

Entry requirements at a glance

Microchip

Required

ISO 11784/11785 standard 15-digit microchip. Must be implanted before or at the time of the first rabies vaccination — never after.

Rabies vaccine

Two primary rabies vaccinations required, administered at least 30 days apart, after microchipping. Then a booster at the appropriate interval to maintain continuous coverage. Specific timing rules apply — see process notes.

Health certificate

USDA-accredited vet health certificate + USDA APHIS endorsement (APHIS 7001 form). Japan also requires a Japan-specific form. The animal quarantine service must approve documents before travel.

Rabies titer test

Required Required: a FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) titer test showing ≥0.5 IU/mL, conducted at a Japan-approved laboratory, at least 180 days before arrival in Japan. This 180-day wait period is the critical bottleneck.

Quarantine on arrival

Mandatory quarantine 12 hours mandatory inspection at a quarantine station. If all documents are correct and the 180-day wait has been observed, your pet will be released. Incomplete documentation results in extended quarantine (up to 180 days) at the owner's expense.

Breed restrictions / bans

Japan does not have a national breed ban for dogs, but some municipalities restrict certain large breeds. Check local rules.