From the neon lights of Tokyo to the peaceful countryside of Kyoto and beyond, Japan offers a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation that’s made it a dream destination for many expats — and their pets.
While the country is known for being clean, safe, and extremely pet-friendly in certain areas, relocating pets to Japan isn’t as simple as buying a plane ticket and packing your bags. With a highly regulated process designed to keep rabies out of the country, Japan’s pet import requirements can be rigorous, especially for long-haul travelers.
In this guide, we walk you through what it takes to relocating pets to Japan, step by step.
A first look into pet ownership in Japan
Owning a pet in Japan can be a joy — but it does come with unique challenges. Dogs and cats are common in urban and suburban households, and the market for pet care, grooming, cafes, and clothing is booming. However, space is at a premium in many Japanese homes and apartments, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, so larger dogs may not be ideal for apartment living unless you’re in a pet-friendly, spacious building.
Many landlords do not allow pets, so finding pet-friendly accommodation can be time-consuming. Still, options are growing, and platforms like RealEstate-Tokyo and GaijinPot can help filter pet-permissible listings. Once settled, pet owners can enjoy well-maintained parks, excellent veterinary care, and a growing number of pet-friendly cafes, hotels, and public spaces.
That said, Japan takes pet ownership seriously — and that includes the import process.
Relocating pets to Japan: Is Japan a rabies-free country?
Yes, Japan is one of the few countries in the world recognised as rabies-free, and maintaining that status is a top national priority. Because of this, pets imported into Japan — particularly dogs and cats — are subject to strict pre-arrival preparations and documentation requirements.
Relocating pets to Japan: Can I bring my pet to Japan?
Yes, both dogs and cats can be brought into Japan from most countries, but the process differs slightly depending on whether you’re coming from a designated region (a country recognised by Japan as rabies-free) or a non-designated region (which includes the majority of countries worldwide).
Most Southeast Asian countries, the United States, and much of Europe are considered non-designated — meaning you’ll need to follow the full import protocol. If you’re travelling from a designated region such as Australia, New Zealand, or Singapore, the steps are slightly more streamlined.
Relocating pets to Japan: Pre-arrival requirements (non-designated regions)
Relocating pets to Japan from a non-designated country involves several steps that must be followed in order. Here’s a simplified version of the official procedure:
1. Microchipping
Your pet must be microchipped before any vaccinations are administered. The microchip should be ISO 11784/11785 compliant (15 digits). If not, you’ll need to bring your own reader.
2. Rabies vaccinations
Your dog or cat must receive two rabies vaccinations after microchipping. These vaccinations must:
- Be inactivated (killed virus) or recombinant vaccines
- Be administered at least 30 days apart
- Be valid at the time of entry into Japan
3. Rabies antibody test
A blood sample must be taken at least 30 days after the second rabies vaccination, and the sample must be sent to a designated laboratory approved by the Japanese government. The result must show a rabies antibody level of 0.5 IU/ml or higher.
Once the test is complete, you must wait 180 days before your pet can enter Japan. This is one of the longest parts of the process — so early planning is essential.
4. Advance notification
You must submit a Notification of Import of Animals form to the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) at least 40 days before arrival. You can do this by email or post. Once received, the AQS will issue a written approval.
Relocating pets to Japan: Arrival and inspection
When your pet arrives in Japan, they must be inspected by the Animal Quarantine Service. If all documents are in order and the 180-day waiting period has been completed, your pet may be released within 12 hours.
If any steps have been missed or documents are incomplete, your pet may be subject to quarantine in Japan for up to 180 days — at your own expense.
Make sure you have the following documents ready upon arrival:
- Microchip certificate
- Vaccination records
- Rabies antibody test result from an approved lab
- Advance notification acceptance form
- Health certificate issued within 2 days of departure
Relocating pets to Japan: Arrival airports with quarantine facilities
Only certain airports in Japan are equipped to handle international pet arrivals with quarantine facilities. These include:
- Narita International Airport (Tokyo)
- Haneda Airport (Tokyo)
- Kansai International Airport (Osaka)
- Chubu Centrair International Airport (Nagoya)
- New Chitose Airport (Sapporo)
- Fukuoka Airport
If you arrive through a smaller airport, your pet may be refused entry or redirected to a designated facility.
After arrival: registering your pet in Japan
Once you and your pet have cleared quarantine and settled into your new home, dogs must be registered at the local ward office within 30 days of arrival.
You’ll receive a dog licence and must ensure your pet receives annual rabies vaccinations — mandatory under Japanese law.
While cats don’t need to be registered, it’s good practice to microchip and keep identification updated in case they get lost.
Pet travel tips for Japan
- Avoid last-minute plans – The process takes a minimum of 7 months if you’re coming from a non-designated country.
- Book direct flights – Minimise transit times and reduce stress for your pet.
- Check accommodation early – Pet-friendly rentals are limited and competitive.
- Stay updated – Always check the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries website for the latest regulations.
- Consider pet relocation support – With so many moving parts, working with a relocation company can reduce stress and ensure compliance.
Pet relocation to Japan: How we can help
Japan is a safe, clean, and culturally rich country for pet owners, offering high-quality veterinary care and a deep appreciation for animals. But importing your dog or cat into Japan involves one of the most meticulous processes in the world — and missing even one step can result in delays, stress, and significant costs.
By preparing early, double-checking your documentation, and keeping a close eye on timelines, you can ensure a smooth arrival for both you and your furry companion in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Need help relocating pets to Japan? Contact us to find out how Purrfect Pilots can make your move easier.
