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Taking a Dog or Cat to Japan
To bring a dog or cat into Japan without long quarantine you need a microchip, two rabies vaccines at least 30 days apart, a rabies antibody test of 0.5 IU/ml or higher at an approved lab, a 180-day wait from that blood sample, advance notification to the Animal Quarantine Service at least 40 days before arrival, and a government-endorsed health certificate.
Requirements at a glance
| Microchip | ISO 11784/11785, implanted before the first rabies shot |
|---|---|
| Rabies vaccines | Two shots after the microchip, at least 30 days apart |
| Antibody test | 0.5 IU/ml or higher at a designated lab |
| Waiting period | 180 days from the blood sample to arrival |
| Advance notice | Notify Animal Quarantine Service 40+ days before arrival |
| Health certificate | Government-endorsed certificate from the departure country |
| Plan ahead | At least 7 months |
Step-by-step timeline
- 7+ months beforeMicrochip, then the first rabies vaccine. The second rabies vaccine follows at least 30 days later.
- After the 2nd shotBlood sample for the rabies antibody (FAVN) test at a designated lab. A result of 0.5 IU/ml or higher starts the 180-day wait from the sample date.
- 40+ days beforeSend the advance notification to the Animal Quarantine Service at your arrival airport.
- Days beforeVet exam and the export health certificate, endorsed by the government vet service (USDA APHIS in the US).
- ArrivalInspection at the airport. If everything is in order it takes about 12 hours or less; otherwise quarantine of up to 180 days.
Dogs vs cats
Dogs and cats follow the same process. Pets from Japan's designated rabies-free regions (such as Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Guam and Iceland) follow a simpler route without the antibody test.
Common mistakes
- Starting too late. The vaccines, test and 180-day wait take at least 7 months in total.
- Vaccinating before microchipping. Vaccines given before the chip do not count.
- Using a lab that is not on Japan's designated list. The test must be redone.
- Missing the 40-day advance notification.
Official source: Animal Quarantine Service: dogs and cats to Japan
Other destinations
🇪🇺 EU🇬🇧 UK🇺🇸 US🇨🇦 Canada🇦🇺 Australia
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to bring a dog to Japan?
At least 7 months from the first rabies vaccine: two vaccines 30 days apart, the antibody test, then a 180-day wait from the blood sample.
Will my pet be quarantined in Japan?
Not if every requirement is met; the airport inspection usually takes 12 hours or less. If the 180-day wait is not complete, the pet stays in quarantine for the remaining days.
How long is the rabies antibody test valid for Japan?
Two years from the blood sample date, as long as rabies vaccinations are kept up to date.
Sources
Rules change. Always confirm with the official source above and your vet before you travel or change a vaccine plan.