2026-04-08 · 10 min read
Japan has some of the strictest pet import requirements in the world. The process takes at least 7 months from start to finish due to the mandatory 180-day waiting period after a rabies titer test. Here's exactly what you need to do, and when.
Japan is classified as a rabies-free country and takes extreme precautions to maintain that status. Unlike the EU or US, where pet travel can be arranged in a few weeks, Japan requires months of advance preparation. Cutting corners is not an option — non-compliant pets face up to 180 days of quarantine at the owner's expense.
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip before any vaccinations. If you have a non-ISO chip, bring your own reader.
Your pet needs at least two rabies vaccinations, given at least 30 days apart. The first can be given on the same day as the microchip. Both must be recorded with the microchip number.
After the second rabies vaccination, a blood sample must be sent to an OIE-approved laboratory for a FAVN titer test. Results must show ≥0.5 IU/ml.
The critical rule: You must wait 180 days from the blood draw date before your pet can enter Japan. This is the longest part of the process and cannot be shortened.
Submit an Advance Notification Form to the Animal Quarantine Service at your arrival airport at least 40 days before arrival. You'll receive a notification number that must accompany your pet.
Obtain a health certificate from a government-authorized vet within 10 days of departure. It must be endorsed by your country's government veterinary authority and include all vaccination and titer test details.
At the airport, present all documents to the Animal Quarantine Service. If everything is in order, your pet is released after a brief inspection (usually 12–24 hours). If documents are incomplete, your pet may be quarantined for up to 180 days.
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