Guide to importing dogs and cats into Japan from Non-designated regions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

This guide describes the requirements and necessary

procedures for importing dogs and cats into Japan from

Non-designated regions.

We strongly recommend reading this guide if you are

planning to bring dogs or cats into Japan.

For further information, feel free to contact Animal

Quarantine Service.

Appended Form 5-2

Guide to importing dogs and cats into Japan

from Non-designated regions

(Final revision: Nov., 2021)

Animal Quarantine Service

Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

What are the “Non-designated regions”?

All countries or regions other than Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji Islands,

Hawaii and Guam.

*The designation is subject to change due to the prevalence of rabies or the revision

of quarantine regulations.

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions) 
2 
 
 
 
 
A. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 3 
Importer’s responsibility................................................................................................... 3 
Animals covered by this guide ......................................................................................... 3 
B. Import quarantine procedures ............................................................................................ 4 
Flow chart .......................................................................................................................... 4 
STEP 1: Microchip ............................................................................................................. 5 
STEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice or more) ................................................................... 6 
STEP 3: Rabies antibody test (serological test) .............................................................. 7 
STEP 4: Waiting period (180 days or more) ..................................................................... 8 
STEP 5: Advance notification ........................................................................................... 9 
1. Submission of notification ............................................................................................ 9 
2. Approval of Import Inspection of Animals ................................................................... 10 
3. Modification of Notification ......................................................................................... 10 
STEP 6: Clinical inspection before departure (pre-export inspection) ........................ 11 
STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government agency of the exporting country 12 
1. Required information in the certificates ...................................................................... 12 
2. Advance confirmation of the certificates ..................................................................... 13 
STEP 8: Import inspection after arrival in Japan .......................................................... 14 
1. Inspection upon arrival ............................................................................................... 14 
2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of Animal Quarantine Service ................ 16 
[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered before microchip implanting ........... 18 
[Reference 2] Notes for transportation .......................................................................... 20 
1. Ports of entry where import is allowed ........................................................................ 20 
2. Health condition for transport ..................................................................................... 20 
3. Transport cage ........................................................................................................... 21 
4. Types of transportation ............................................................................................... 21 
[Reference 3] Recommended treatments (vaccinations, parasite treatment) ............. 22 
1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine) ........................................................................... 22 
2. Treatment for external and internal parasites ............................................................. 22 
C. List of Animal Quarantine Service .................................................................................... 23 
D. Management after import into Japan ................................................................................ 24 
 
 
 
 
 
Contents 

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

◆ Inspections and treatments in the exporting country

◆ Advance notification

◆ Obtaining all necessary documents including certificates

◆ Arrangements for transportation

◆ Application for Import Inspection upon arrival in Japan

◆ Measures and expenses for quarantine at a detention facility, if necessary

◆ Reshipment if import is not permitted

◆ Other matters that an animal quarantine officer may instruct as necessary

Animals covered by this guide◆ Inspections and treatments in the exporting country

◆ Advance notification

◆ Obtaining all necessary documents including certificates

◆ Arrangements for transportation

◆ Application for Import Inspection upon arrival in Japan

◆ Measures and expenses for quarantine at a detention facility, if necessary

◆ Reshipment or euthanasia if import is not permitted

◆ Other matters that an animal quarantine officer may instruct as necessary

Animals covered by this guide

B. Import quarantine proceduresAnimals covered by this guide◆ Inspections and

treatments in the exporting country

◆ Advance notification

◆ Obtaining all necessary documents including certificates

◆ Arrangements for transportation

◆ Application for Import Inspection upon arrival in Japan

◆ Measures and expenses for quarantine at a detention facility, if necessary

◆ Reshipment if import is not permitted

◆ Other matters that an animal quarantine officer may instruct as necessary

Dogs and cats imported into Japan must undergo import quarantine in accordance with the

Rabies Prevention Law and, additionally for dogs, the Domestic Animal Infectious Diseases

Control Law.

For dogs and cats meeting certain requirements upon arrival in Japan, the quarantine period (for

import inspection) will be within 12 hours.

Any dogs and cats that do not meet the requirements will be subject to quarantine at a detention

facility of Animal Quarantine Service for the necessary period (up to 180 days). Depending on the

results of the import inspection, the dog or cat cannot be allowed to enter Japan.

The “importer” (person planning to import dogs or cats) is responsible for the following

obligations at their own expense. You should begin the importation procedure only after fully

understanding and accepting these obligations.

This guide applies to the following animals and first-generation hybrids

between these and other

animals.

Type of

animal

Family

Genus

Species

Scientific name*

Dog

Canidae

Canis

Domestic dog

Canis familiaris

Cat

Felidae

Felis

Domestic cat

Felis catus

First-generation hybrid: a cross between distinctly different parental types.

Examples: Wolfdog (domestic dog × wolf); Savannah cat (domestic cat × serval)

Source: A World List of Mammals with Japanese Names (Heibonsha Limited, 1998)

A. Introduction

Importer’s responsibilityA. Introduction

Importer’s responsibility

Importer’s responsibilityA. Introduction

Importer’s responsibility

Animals covered by this guide

B. Import quarantine proceduresAnimals covered by this

guide

B. Import quarantine procedures

Flow chartB. Import quarantine proceduresAnimals

covered by this guide

B. Import quarantine proceduresAnimals covered by this

guide

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Flow chart

Blood sampling

Rabies vaccination (1st)

*at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination (1st)

*at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination (1st)

*at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination (1st)

*at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination (2nd)

Rabies antibody test

*equal to or greater than 0.5IU/ml

Rabies antibody test

*equal to or greater than 0.5IU/ml

Rabies antibody test

*equal to or greater than 0.5IU/ml

Rabies antibody test

*equal to or greater than 0.5IU/ml

Waiting period

Import inspection

Arrival

STEP 1:

MicrochipArr

ival

STEP 1:

Expiry of 2nd

rabies vaccine

Expiry of 2nd

rabies vaccine

Expiry of 2nd

rabies vaccine

Expiry of 2nd

rabies vaccine

2 years

Validity

period of

rabies

antibody

test

2 years

Validity

period of

rabies

antibody

test

2 years

Validity

period of

rabies

180 days or more

(The date of

blood sampling

is day 0)

180 days or more

(The date of

blood sampling

is day 0)

180 days or more

(The date of

blood sampling

is day 0)

180 days or more

(The date of

blood sampling

is day 0)

30 days or more ～

before the 1st vaccine expired

(the date of 1st vaccination is day 0)

30 days or more ～

before the 1st vaccine expired

(the date of 1st vaccination is day 0)

30 days or more ～

before the 1st vaccine expired

(the date of 1st vaccination is day 0)

30 days or more ～

before the 1st vaccine expired

(the date of 1st vaccination is day 0)

ｐ.５

STEP 1

ｐ.６

STEP 2

ｐ.６

STEP 2

ｐ.７

STEP 3

ｐ.９

STEP 5

ｐ.１１

STEP 6

ｐ.１４

STEP 8

ｐ.１２

STEP 7

ｐ.８

STEP 4

Microchip

(identification)

Microchip

(identification)

Microchip

(identification)

Microchip

(identification)

Advance Notification

*not less than 40 days before arrival.

Advance Notification

*not less than 40 days before arrival.

Advance Notification

*not less than 40 days before arrival.

Advance Notification

*not less than 40 days before arrival.

Pre-export inspection

Obtaining certificates

Pre-export inspection

Obtaining certificates

Pre-export inspection

Obtaining certificates

Pre-export inspection

Obtaining certificates

*at least 30 days after the 1st vaccination

and before the 1st vaccine expired

Same day

is possible

Same day

is possible

Same day

is possible

Same day

is possible

B. Import quarantine procedures

Flow chartB. Import quarantine procedures

Flow chart

Flow chartB. Import quarantine procedures

Same day

is possible

Same day

is possible

Same day

is possible

Same day

is possible

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Timing of microchip implanting

Recommended microchip standards

PrecautionsRecommended microchip standards

Precautions

STEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice or more)PrecautionsRecommended microchip

standards

PrecautionsRecommended microchip standards

*What is a microchip?

This is a small chip that contains a unique identification number. An inserter shaped like an injection syringe is

used to implant the microchip under the skin. The number is read by a specially designed scanner, enabling

identification of the dog or cat.

*What is a microchip?

This is a small chip that contains a unique identification number. An inserter shaped like an injection syringe is

used to implant the microchip under the skin. The number is read by a specially designed scanner, enabling

identification of the dog or cat.

*What is a microchip?

This is a small chip that contains a unique identification number. An inserter shaped like an injection syringe is

used to implant the microchip under the skin. The number is read by a specially designed scanner, enabling

identification of the dog or cat.

*What is a microchip?

This is a small chip that contains a unique identification number. An inserter shaped like an injection syringe is

used to implant the microchip under the skin. The number is read by a specially designed scanner, enabling

identification of the dog or cat.

All dogs and cats imported into Japan must be identified by a microchip.

The microchip must be implanted before the first rabies vaccination [→ STEP 2].

(Both procedures can be performed on the same day.)

ISO 11784 and 11785 (15-digit microchip code which consists only of numbers.)

(ISO: International Organization for Standardization)

・Microchip can be implanted at a veterinary hospital.

・Make sure that the microchip number can be read by a microchip reader upon each inspection

and treatment at a veterinary hospital.

・If the microchip number cannot be read or the microchip number does not match the number on

the certificates issued by the government agency of the exporting country [→ STEP 7] at the

import inspection [→ STEP 8], the dog or cat will be subject to 180-day quarantine [→ STEP

8-2] or be returned at the importer’s own expense.

・If the microchip is not in accordance with ISO standards, or if a method other than microchip is

used for identification, you should contact Animal Quarantine Service at the expected port of

entry [→ p. 23].

・Rabies vaccination [→ STEP 2] administered before microchip implanting is invalid, but it may be

accepted under certain conditions. [→ Reference 1]

Precautions

STEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice or more)Precautions

STEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice or more)

Timing of rabies vaccinationSTEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice

or more)Precautions

STEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice or more)Precautions

STEP 1: Microchip

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

*What is the effective period?

This is not the expiration date for use of the vaccine (product), but the duration of immunity against rabies.

As the duration may differ from product to product, you should confirm it with the veterinarian in charge of the

vaccination.

Types of acceptable vaccines*What is the effective period?

This is not the expiration date for use of the vaccine (product), but the duration of immunity against rabies.

As the duration may differ from product to product, you should confirm it with the veterinarian in charge of the

vaccination.

Types of acceptable vaccines

PrecautionsTypes of acceptable vaccines*What is the effective period?

This is not the expiration date for use of the vaccine (product), but the duration of immunity against rabies.

As the duration may differ from product to product, you should confirm it with the veterinarian in charge of the

vaccination.

Types of acceptable vaccines*What is the effective period?

This is not the expiration date for use of the vaccine (product), but the duration of immunity against rabies.

As the duration may differ from product to product, you should confirm it with the veterinarian in charge of the

vaccination.

Rabies vaccination must be administered twice or more after the microchip is

implanted.

・First rabies vaccination

□ Dogs and cats must be at least 91 days old at the time of vaccination (the date of birth is

counted as day 0).

□ Dogs and cats must be vaccinated after the microchip is implanted [→ STEP 1].

(Both procedures can be performed on the same day.)

・Second rabies vaccination

□ The second vaccination must be administered at least 30 days after the first vaccination (the

date of the first vaccination is counted as day 0) and within the effective period of the first

vaccination.

・Inactivated (killed) virus vaccine

・Recombinant vaccine

*These types of vaccines above must be satisfied the standards of the World Organization for

Animal Health (OIE).

*Live virus vaccine is not accepted.

・If the effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before the day of arrival in Japan, an

additional vaccination must be administered within the effective period.

・If administered after the effective period of the previous vaccination, it is not accepted as an

“additional vaccination” and the importer must start the procedure from the first rabies

vaccination.

・Rabies vaccination administered before microchip implanting is invalid, but it may be accepted

under certain conditions. [→ Reference 1]

Timing of rabies vaccination

Types of acceptable vaccines

PrecautionsTypes of acceptable vaccines

Precautions

STEP 3: Rabies antibody test (serological test)PrecautionsTypes of

acceptable vaccines

PrecautionsTypes of acceptable vaccines

STEP 2: Rabies vaccination (twice or more)

Timing of rabies vaccinationSTEP 2: Rabies vaccination

(twice or more)

Timing of rabies vaccination

Timing of rabies vaccinationSTEP 2: Rabies vaccination

(twice or more)

Timing of rabies vaccinationSTEP 2: Rabies vaccination

(twice or more)

Precautions

STEP 3: Rabies antibody test (serological

test)Precautions

STEP 3: Rabies antibody test (serological test)

Timing of rabies antibody testSTEP 3: Rabies antibody

test (serological test)Precautions

STEP 3: Rabies antibody test (serological

test)Precautions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

*The blood sample (serum) of dogs must be subject to import or export inspection at Animal

Quarantine Service at the time of entry to or departure from Japan. For more information, contact

Animal Quarantine Service at the expected port of entry [→ p. 23].

Test result*The blood sample (serum) of dogs must be subject to import or export inspection at

Animal Quarantine Service at the time of entry to or departure from Japan. For more information,

contact Animal Quarantine Service at the expected port of entry [→ p. 23].

Test result

Validity period of rabies antibody testTest result*The blood sample (serum) of dogs must be

subject to import or export inspection at Animal Quarantine Service at the time of entry to or

departure from Japan. For more information, contact Animal Quarantine Service at the expected

port of entry [→ p. 23].

Test result*The blood sample (serum) of dogs must be subject to import or export inspection at

Animal Quarantine Service at the time of entry to or departure from Japan. For more information,

contact Animal Quarantine Service at the expected port of entry [→ p. 23].

A blood sample (serum) must be sent to a designated laboratory for rabies

antibody test.

A blood sample must be taken at a veterinary hospital after the second rabies vaccination [→

STEP 2]. (The second rabies vaccination and blood sampling can be performed on the same day.)

The blood sample must be taken within the effective period of the rabies vaccination.

Rabies antibody test must be performed at one of the designated laboratories.

The laboratories are designated by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan

The list of designated laboratories is available at http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/animal/dog/lab.html

*Test methods: FAVN (fluorescent antibody virus neutralization test) or RFFIT (rapid fluorescent focus

inhibition test)

The rabies antibody titer must be equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml.

The test result is valid for 2 years from the date of blood sampling under conditions that the

effective period from the first rabies vaccination continues with necessary additional rabies

vaccinations.

Dogs and cats must arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody test.

If unable to arrive within the validity period, another rabies antibody test is required [→ STEP 4]

・Original result report of the antibody test issued by the designated laboratory is necessary at

the time of import inspection [→ STEP 8].

・If the antibody titer is less than 0.5 IU/ml, the test must be performed again.

・We recommend you to contact a designated laboratory for detailed information on its procedure.

Timing of rabies antibody test

Designated laboratoriesTiming of rabies antibody test

Designated laboratories

Designated laboratoriesTiming of rabies antibody test

Designated laboratories

Test result

Validity period of rabies antibody testTest result

Validity period of rabies antibody test

PrecautionsValidity period of rabies antibody testTest result

Validity period of rabies antibody testTest result

STEP 3: Rabies antibody test (serological test)

Timing of rabies antibody testSTEP 3: Rabies antibody test

(serological test)

Timing of rabies antibody test

Designated laboratoriesTiming of rabies antibody testSTEP 3:

Rabies antibody test (serological test)

Timing of rabies antibody testSTEP 3: Rabies antibody test

(serological test)

Validity period of rabies antibody test

PrecautionsValidity period of rabies antibody test

Precautions

STEP 4: Waiting period (180 days or more)PrecautionsValidity period of

rabies antibody test

PrecautionsValidity period of rabies antibody test

Precautions

STEP 4: Waiting period (180 days or

more)Precautions

STEP 4: Waiting period (180 days or more)

If the waiting period is less than 180 daysSTEP 4: Waiting

period (180 days or more)Precautions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

30 days or more

１

～

before the 1st vaccine expired

30 days or more

１

～

before the 1st vaccine expired

30 days or more

１

～

before the 1st vaccine expired

180 days waiting

２

180 days waiting

２

180 days waiting

is not necessary

180 days waiting

is not necessary

Additional

Rabies vaccination

３

Additional

Rabies vaccination

３

Antibody test ①

Expiry 2 years

２

Antibody test ①

Expiry 2 years

２

Antibody test ①

Expiry 2 years

２

Antibody test ①

Expiry 2 years

２

Antibody test ②

Arrival

４

Arrival

４

Microchip

1st Rabies

vaccination

1st Rabies

vaccination

2nd Rabies

vaccination

2nd Rabies

vaccination

Antibody test ①

The waiting period is 180 days or more (the date of the blood sampling for the

rabies antibody test is counted as day 0).

Dogs and cats must arrive in Japan within the “effective period of the rabies vaccination”

and the “validity period of the rabies antibody test” after at least 180 days from the date of

blood sampling.

A dog or cat whose waiting has passed less than 180 days will be subject to quarantine at a

detention facility of Animal Quarantine Service [→ STEP 8-2] until the total time of the waiting

period and the quarantine period reaches 180 days.

An additional vaccination must be administered within the effective period.

If not administered within the period, it will be necessary to repeat STEP 2 and onward.

The second rabies antibody test (antibody test ②) must be performed and the dog or cat must

arrive in Japan within the validity period of antibody test ② (within 2 years after the date of blood

sampling).

If the following three conditions are all met, another waiting period (180 days or more) is not

necessary after antibody test ②.

1. The effective period from the first rabies vaccination continues up to arrival in Japan with

necessary additional rabies vaccinations.

2. The date of blood sampling for antibody test ② is at least 180 days after the date of blood

sampling for the first rabies antibody test (antibody test ①), which is counted as day 0.

3. The rabies antibody titer is 0.5 IU/ml or more in all the rabies antibody tests.

*１

Date of the 1st rabies vaccination = day 0

*２

Date of blood sampling = day 0

STEP 5: Advance notification

*１

Date

of the 1st rabies vaccination = day 0

*３

Within the effective period of the previous rabies vaccination

*４

Within the effective period of the rabies vaccination and 2 years from

the date of blood sampling for antibody test ②

*３

Within the effective period of the previous rabies vaccination

If the waiting period is less than 180 days

If the effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in JapanIf

the waiting period is less than 180 days

If the effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in Japan

If unable to arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody testIf the

effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in JapanIf the

waiting period is less than 180 days

If the effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in JapanIf

the waiting period is less than 180 days

If the effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in Japan

If unable to arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody testIf the

effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in Japan

If unable to arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody test

If unable to arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody testIf the

effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in Japan

If unable to arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody testIf the

effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival in Japan

If unable to arrive in Japan within the validity period of the rabies antibody test

STEP 4: Waiting period (180 days or more)

If the waiting period is less than 180 daysSTEP 4: Waiting period

(180 days or more)

If the waiting period is less than 180 days

If the effective period of the rabies vaccination will expire before arrival

in JapanIf the waiting period is less than 180 daysSTEP 4: Waiting

period (180 days or more)

If the waiting period is less than 180 daysSTEP 4: Waiting period

(180 days or more)

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

1. Submission of notification

The importer must notify Animal Quarantine Service at the expected port of

entry not less than 40 days before arrival in Japan.

The importer must submit a “Notification” to Animal Quarantine Service at the expected port of

entry [→ p. 23] by mail, fax or e-mail not less than 40 days before arrival in Japan.

“Notification” form is available on the website of Animal Quarantine Service.

http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/english/animal/dog/import-other.html

◆ For dogs: “Notification for Import of Dogs under the Rabies Prevention Law and the Domestic

Animal Infectious Diseases Control Law”

◆ For cats: “Notification of Import of Animals under the Rabies Prevention Law”

Hints for “Notification”"

・Date of birth (Age): If the date of birth is unknown, enter the age of the dog or cat at the time of arrival

・Scheduled place of arrival: Name of the expected arrival airport or seaport

・Consignor: The person exporting or traveling with the dog or cat from abroad

・Consignee: The person receiving the dog or cat upon arrival in Japan

・Date of identification: The date that the microchip was implanted

・Cargo or hand luggage: The type of transportation [→ Reference 2-4]

・Name and address of destination: Place where the dog or cat will be kept after import into Japan

・Rabies vaccination: Information on rabies vaccinations administered

・Date of expiry: Not the expiration date for use of the vaccine, but the duration of immunity (effective period)

・Kind of vaccine: Rabies vaccination → inactivated (killed) virus vaccine or recombinant vaccine

Other vaccination → names of target diseases (such as distemper, feline calicivirus, etc.)

・Date of blood sampling: The date that the blood sample was taken for the rabies antibody test

・Ports of entry for importing dogs are restricted. [→ Reference 2-1]

・Clearly indicate the contact information on the “Notification.”

・The “Notification” can be submitted during the waiting period before export [→ STEP 4].

・In principle, a notification submitted less than 40 days before arrival in Japan will not be

accepted.

・If the port of entry has not been determined 40 days before arrival in Japan, you can submit the

“Notification” filled out with provisional information to one of Animal Quarantine Service at the

most likely port of entry. After the plans are finalized, submit a “Modification on Notification of

Import of Animals” [→ STEP 5-3].

STEP 5: Advance notification

1. Submission of notificationSTEP 5: Advance notification

1. Submission of notification

1. Submission of notificationSTEP 5: Advance notification

Notification can be made online through the NACCS (Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System).

http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/tetuzuki/system/49.html

PrecautionsNotification can be made online through the NACCS (Nippon Automated Cargo and Port

Consolidated System). https://webaps.naccs.jp/dfw/main/anau/anipas/AOWZ01/OWZ01W02O.jsp

Precautions

2. Approval of Import Inspection of AnimalsPrecautionsNotification can be made online through

the NACCS (Nippon Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System).

http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/tetuzuki/system/49.html

PrecautionsNotification can be made online through the NACCS (Nippon Automated Cargo and Port

Consolidated System). https://webaps.naccs.jp/dfw/main/anau/anipas/AOWZ01/OWZ01W02O.jsp

Precautions

2. Approval of Import Inspection of AnimalsPrecautions

2. Approval of Import Inspection of Animals

Precautions2. Approval of Import Inspection of

AnimalsPrecautions

2. Approval of Import Inspection of AnimalsPrecautions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

If the original notification was made online through the NACCS, modification must be made

through the NACCS, too.

*Before making any changes, you need to contact Animal Quarantine Service to which the

"Notification" was submitted.

PrecautionsIf the original notification was made online through the NACCS, modification

must be made through the NACCS, too.

*Before making any changes, you need to contact Animal Quarantine Service to which the

"Notification" was submitted.

Precautions

STEP 6: Clinical inspection before departure (pre-export inspection)PrecautionsIf the

original notification was made online through the NACCS, modification must be made

through the NACCS, too.

*Before making any changes, you need to contact Animal Quarantine Service to which the

"Notification" was submitted.

PrecautionsIf the original notification was made online through the NACCS, modification

must be made through the NACCS, too.

*Before making any changes, you need to contact Animal Quarantine Service to which the

"Notification" was submitted.

Animal Quarantine Service will examine the "Notification" and related documents to issue an

“Approval of Import Inspection of Animals”. For export or boarding procedures, please print or save

digitally the issued form.

・Animal Quarantine Service may instruct some changes to the arrival date or the port of entry.

・The quarantine period on the “Approval of Import Inspection of Animals” may be subject to

change due to the results of the import inspection upon arrival in Japan.

If there are any changes or additions to the submitted “Notification,” submit a “Modification on

Notification of Import of Animals” by mail, fax or e-mail to Animal Quarantine Service to which the

“Notification” was submitted.

If the changes or additions do not affect the import inspection, Animal Quarantine Service will

re-issue an “Approval of Import Inspection of Animals.”

・The “Modification on Notification of Import of Animals” form is available on the website of

Animal Quarantine Service.

http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/animal/dog/pdf/modnotification.pdf

・“Modification on Notification of Import of Animals” must be submitted before the scheduled arrival

date.

・The following changes may not be accepted as they may affect the import inspection:

◆ Advancing the arrival date

◆ Increasing the number of imported animals

◆ Replacing with different animals

◆ Changing the importation schedule after the scheduled arrival date

2. Approval of Import Inspection of Animals

Precautions2. Approval of Import Inspection of Animals

Precautions

3. Modification of NotificationPrecautions2. Approval of Import Inspection of

Animals

Precautions2. Approval of Import Inspection of Animals

3. Modification of Notification

Precautions

3. Modification of NotificationPrecautions

3. Modification of Notification

3. Modification of NotificationPrecautions

Precautions

STEP 6: Clinical inspection before departure (pre-export

inspection)Precautions

STEP 6: Clinical inspection before departure

(pre-export inspection)

Timing of pre-export inspectionSTEP 6: Clinical inspection

before departure (pre-export inspection)Precautions

STEP 6: Clinical inspection before departure (pre-export

inspection)Precautions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Before leaving the exporting country, all dogs and cats must undergo

a clinical inspection (pre-export inspection) by a veterinarian.

Immediately before leaving (within 10 days before boarding), dogs and cats must undergo a

clinical inspection by a private veterinarian or a veterinary officer of a government agency of the

exporting country.

*Date of pre-export inspection

It is desirable that this inspection is performed as close as possible to the date of departure (within 10 days before

boarding). However, if it is difficult due to circumstances in the exporting country, contact Animal Quarantine Service

at the expected port of entry [→ p. 23].

・For dogs

◆ The dog has been found to be free from any clinical signs of rabies and leptospirosis.

・For cats

◆ The cat has been found to be free from any clinical signs of rabies.

STEP 6: Clinical inspection before departure

(pre-export inspection)

Timing of pre-export inspectionSTEP 6: Clinical

inspection before departure (pre-export

inspection)

Timing of pre-export inspection

Timing of pre-export inspectionSTEP 6: Clinical

inspection before departure (pre-export

inspection)

Timing of pre-export inspectionSTEP 6: Clinical

inspection before departure (pre-export

inspection)

Timing of pre-export inspection

Contents of clinical inspection

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government agency of

the exporting countryContents of clinical inspection

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the

government agency of the exporting country

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government agency of

the exporting countryContents of clinical inspection

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government agency of

the exporting countryContents of clinical inspection

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

The importer must obtain certificates issued by the government agency of the

exporting country.

(1) Date of birth or age

(2) Microchip [→ STEP 1]

□ Microchip number

□ Date of microchip implanting

(3) Rabies vaccinations [→ STEP 2]

(Information on all rabies vaccinations described on the accepted “Notification”)

□ Dates of vaccinations

□ Effective period

□ Kind of vaccine (inactivated (killed) virus vaccine or recombinant vaccine)

□ Product name and manufacturer of vaccine

(4) Rabies antibody test [→ STEP 3]

(Information on all rabies antibody tests described on the accepted “Notification”)

□ Date of blood sampling

□ Name of designated laboratory

□ Antibody titer

*Attach the “Result report of the test” issued by the designated laboratory.

(5) Pre-export inspection [→ STEP 6]

□ Date of inspection

□ The dog or cat has been found to be free from any clinical signs of rabies and, for dogs,

leptospirosis.

(6) Vaccinations other than for rabies and parasite treatment [→ Reference 3]

(Only when performed)

□ Name of target diseases or parasites

□ Dates of vaccinations or treatment (administration)

□ Kind of vaccine (if vaccinated)

□ Effective period (if vaccinated)

1. Required information in the certificates

*What is the government agency of the exporting country?

This means that the agency in charge of animal quarantine services in the government of the exporting country

(corresponding to Animal Quarantine Service in Japan).

1. Required information in the certificates *What is the government agency of the exporting

country?

This means that the agency in charge of animal quarantine services in the government of the exporting country

(corresponding to Animal Quarantine Service in Japan).

1. Required information in the certificates

1. Required information in the certificates *What is the government agency of the exporting

country?

This means that the agency in charge of animal quarantine services in the government of the exporting country

(corresponding to Animal Quarantine Service in Japan).

1. Required information in the certificates *What is the government agency of the exporting

country?

This means that the agency in charge of animal quarantine services in the government of the exporting country

(corresponding to Animal Quarantine Service in Japan).

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government

agency of the exporting country

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government

agency of the exporting country

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government

agency of the exporting country

STEP 7: Obtaining certificates issued by the government

agency of the exporting country

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Using the recommended certification forms (Form AC) makes it possible for the importer to fill in

the required information without any omissions.

・Form AC are available on the website of Animal Quarantine Service.

http://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/english/animal/dog/attach/pdf/import-other-5.pdf

・The private veterinarian fills in the Form AC. Endorsement from the government agency of the

exporting country must be obtained.

・Due to circumstance in the exporting country, official government veterinarian could fill in the

Form AC instead of the private veterinarian.

As long as you have all of the blanks on the Form AC filled in and it’s endorsed, there is no

problem.

・If you need more page, attach another Form AC to the first page and fill in the blanks in a same

manner.

・Do not use a pencil or erasable pen to fill in the certificates.

・Use of correcting fluid or correction tape is not acceptable. Draw double lines through the words to

be corrected, and then write the correct information. The signature of the person making the

correction and the correction date are also required.

・Once the endorsement is obtained, no corrections will be accepted other than those made by the

government agency of the exporting country. Corrections should be made before the

endorsement is obtained. If a correction is made by the government agency of the exporting

country, another endorsement of the correction must be obtained.

In order to prevent any errors in the certificates, advance confirmation from Animal Quarantine

Service is recommended.

・The importer can send the certificates (or drafts), after the required items are filled in, by fax or

e-mail to Animal Quarantine Service that received the “Notification.”

・Confirmation of drafts are recommended because corrections may not be accepted once the

endorsement is obtained.

・If there are any errors in the certificates, the dog or cat will be subject to detention quarantine [→

STEP 8-2] for up to 180 days or will be returned.

Recommended certification forms (Form AC)

*What is an endorsement?

Endorsement means that the certificate is approved by the government agency of the exporting country. For a

valid endorsement, the signature of the veterinary officer of the government agency, the name and official

stamp of the agency, and the signed date are necessary. If the endorsement is not complete, the certificate will

not be considered as issued by the government agency of the exporting country.

Precautions*What is an endorsement?

Endorsement means that the certificate is approved by the government agency of the exporting country. For a

valid endorsement, the signature of the veterinary officer of the government agency, the name and official

stamp of the agency, and the signed date are necessary. If the endorsement is not complete, the certificate will

not be considered as issued by the government agency of the exporting country.

Precautions

2. Advance confirmation of the certificatePrecautions*What is an endorsement?

Endorsement means that the certificate is approved by the government agency of the exporting country. For a

valid endorsement, the signature of the veterinary officer of the government agency, the name and official

stamp of the agency, and the signed date are necessary. If the endorsement is not complete, the certificate will

not be considered as issued by the government agency of the exporting country.

Precautions*What is an endorsement?

Endorsement means that the certificate is approved by the government agency of the exporting country. For a

valid endorsement, the signature of the veterinary officer of the government agency, the name and official

stamp of the agency, and the signed date are necessary. If the endorsement is not complete, the certificate will

not be considered as issued by the government agency of the exporting country.

2. Advance confirmation of the certificates

Precautions2. Advance confirmation of the certificates

Precautions

STEP 8: Import inspection after arrival in JapanPrecautions2. Advance confirmation

of the certificates

Precautions2. Advance confirmation of the certificates

Precautions

2. Advance confirmation of the certificatePrecautions

2. Advance confirmation of the certificates

Precautions2. Advance confirmation of the

certificatePrecautions

2. Advance confirmation of the certificatePrecautions

Precautions

STEP 8: Import inspection after arrival in JapanPrecautions

STEP 8: Import inspection after arrival in Japan

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Dogs and cats must be inspected by Animal Quarantine Service at the port of

entry upon arrival in Japan.

If the requirements are not met as the result of import inspection, the dog or cat will be

subject to quarantine for up to 180 days, or will be returned.

Importer must apply for an import inspection to Animal Quarantine Service upon arrival.

If no problems are found in the inspection upon arrival, an Import Quarantine Certificate will be

granted and the dog or cat can be imported.

◆ For hand luggage (checked baggage) transportation [→ Reference 2-4]

Before Customs inspection, bring the dog or cat to Animal Quarantine Service counter in the

baggage claim area.

◆ For cargo transportation [→ Reference 2-4]

After receiving the necessary documents from the airline or shipping line staff at the cargo

area, come to Animal Quarantine Service office.

The “Importer” or the “Attorney authorized by the Importer” must apply for the inspection.

□ Application for Import Inspection

□ Power of Attorney (if an attorney except for the customs broker is in charge of the procedures.)

□ Result report of the Rabies Antibody Test [→ STEP 3]

□ Certificates issued by the government agency of the exporting country [→ STEP 7]

□ (For cargo transportation) A copy of the AWB (Air Waybill) (if air cargo)

A copy of the B/L (Bill of Lading) (if sea cargo)

□ Other documents that Animal Quarantine Service requires

1. Inspection upon arrival

Places to apply for inspection1. Inspection upon arrival

Places to apply for inspection

ApplicantPlaces to apply for inspection1. Inspection upon arrival

Places to apply for inspection1. Inspection upon arrival

Applicant

Necessary documentsApplicant

Necessary documents

Import inspectionNecessary documentsApplicant

Necessary documentsApplicant

Necessary documents

Import inspectionNecessary documents

Import inspection

Estimated time for inspectionImport inspectionNecessary

documents

Import inspectionNecessary documents

Places to apply for inspection

ApplicantPlaces to apply for inspection

Applicant

Necessary documentsApplicantPlaces to apply for inspection

ApplicantPlaces to apply for inspection

STEP 8: Import inspection after arrival in Japan

Import inspectionSTEP 8: Import inspection after arrival

in Japan

Import inspection

1. Inspection upon arrivalImport inspectionSTEP 8:

Import inspection after arrival in Japan

Import inspectionSTEP 8: Import inspection after arrival

in Japan

Import inspection

1. Inspection upon arrivalImport inspection

1. Inspection upon arrival

Places to apply for inspection1. Inspection upon arrivalImport inspection

1. Inspection upon arrivalImport inspection

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

The following matters will be inspected:

◆ No abnormality is found in the health condition of the dog or cat (target diseases: rabies and,

for dogs, leptospirosis).

◆ Microchip number matches the numbers on all the certificates (by reading the microchip

number).

◆ The certificate is issued or endorsed by the government agency of the exporting country.

◆ The contents of the certificates issued by the government agency of the exporting country

meet the requirements for importing dogs and cats into Japan.

If no problems are found with the certificates or with the health condition of the dog or cat (the

requirements are met), the quarantine period for inspection will be less than 12 hours (usually less

than a few hours).

In order to look into our quarantine system, the Rabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (blood

sampling) is conducted at the Narita International Airport, Tokyo International Airport (Haneda

Airport), Chubu International Airport, and Kansai International Airport. Dogs are randomly selected

for the survey in advance of arrival.

The importer will be notified if selected for the survey. We appreciate your cooperation.

If any problems are found upon arrival, the dog or cat will be subject to quarantine at the

detention facility of Animal Quarantine Service [→ STEP 8-2]. Depending on the results of the

import inspection, the dog or cat cannot be allowed to enter Japan.

If the importer wants the dog or cat to be returned without undergoing quarantine at the detention

facility, these will be conducted under the directions of Animal Quarantine Service, but the

procedures must be taken at the importer’s own responsibility and expense. If the importer

chooses to return the dog or cat to the exporting country, the importer should contact the

authorities in charge of quarantine or the embassy of the country receiving the dog or cat and

confirm the requirements.

Import inspection

Estimated time for inspectionImport inspection

Estimated time for inspection

Rabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs

only)Estimated time for inspectionImport inspection

Estimated time for inspectionImport inspection

Estimated time for inspection

Rabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs

only)Estimated time for inspection

Rabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs only)

If any problems are found in the inspection upon arrivalRabies

Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs only)Estimated time

for inspection

Rabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs

only)Estimated time for inspection

Rabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs only)

If any problems are found in the inspection upon arrivalRabies

Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs only)

If any problems are found in the inspection upon arrival

2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of Animal

Quarantine ServiceIf any problems are found in the inspection

upon arrivalRabies Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs

only)

If any problems are found in the inspection upon arrivalRabies

Antibody Titer Monitoring Survey (dogs only)

If any problems are found in the inspection upon arrival

2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of Animal

Quarantine ServiceIf any problems are found in the inspection

upon arrival

2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of Animal

Quarantine Service

Detention facility for quarantine2. Quarantine inspection at a

detention facility of Animal Quarantine ServiceIf any problems

are found in the inspection upon arrival

2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of Animal

Quarantine ServiceIf any problems are found in the inspection

upon arrival

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

If the requirements are not met, the dog or cat will be subject to quarantine at the detention facility

of Animal Quarantine Service for the necessary period (up to 180 days). If no problems are found

with the health condition of the dog or cat after completion of the quarantine period, an Import

Quarantine Certificate will be granted and the dog or cat can be imported.

Quarantine is conducted at a detention facility of Animal Quarantine Service at the port of entry.

The importer is responsible for all costs of quarantine other than the cost of inspections by Animal

Quarantine Service.

・Cost of transportation from the port of entry to the detention facility (the importer cannot

transport the dog or cat).

・Cost of caretaking during the quarantine (cost of food and cleaning/disinfection of cell)

・Lighting, heating and water expenses for detention facility

・Veterinarian’s visiting fee (if necessary)

・Cost of reshipment

・Cost of restoration such as repairs to the detention facility

・Other necessary expenses

The importer is responsible for caretaking and feeding during quarantine.

・At a detention facility where a caretaker company is stationed, the importer can entrust the

caretaking and feeding duties to the caretaker.

・For information about the caretaking and feeding at a detention facility where a caretaker

company is not stationed, contact Animal Quarantine Service.

2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of Animal Quarantine Service

Detention facility for quarantine2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of

Animal Quarantine Service

Detention facility for quarantine

Detention facility for quarantine2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of

Animal Quarantine Service

Detention facility for quarantine2. Quarantine inspection at a detention facility of

Animal Quarantine Service

Care of your pet during quarantine

Cost of quarantine inspection

Care of your pet during quarantineCost of quarantine

inspection

Care of your pet during quarantine

Care of your pet during quarantineCost of quarantine

inspection

Care of your pet during quarantineCost of quarantine

inspection

Detention facility for quarantine

Animal Quarantine Service with a detention facility:

◆ Airport: Hokkaido sub-branch (Iburi branch office), Narita branch, Haneda Airport branch,

Chubu Airport branch, Kansai Airport branch, Fukuoka Airport sub-branch,

Kagoshima Airport sub-branch

◆ Seaport: Yokohama head office, Kobe branch, Osaka sub-branch, Moji branch,

Okinawa branch

Cost of quarantine inspectionAnimal Quarantine Service with a detention facility:

◆ Airport: Hokkaido sub-branch (Iburi branch office), Narita branch, Haneda Airport branch,

Chubu Airport branch, Kansai Airport branch, Fukuoka Airport sub-branch,

Kagoshima Airport sub-branch

◆ Seaport: Yokohama head office, Kobe branch, Osaka sub-branch, Moji branch,

Okinawa branch

Cost of quarantine inspection

Care of your pet during quarantineCost of quarantine inspectionAnimal Quarantine

Service with a detention facility:

◆ Airport: Hokkaido sub-branch (Iburi branch office), Narita branch, Haneda Airport branch,

Chubu Airport branch, Kansai Airport branch, Fukuoka Airport sub-branch,

Kagoshima Airport sub-branch

◆ Seaport: Yokohama head office, Kobe branch, Osaka sub-branch, Moji branch,

Okinawa branch

Cost of quarantine inspectionAnimal Quarantine Service with a detention facility:

◆ Airport: Hokkaido sub-branch (Iburi branch office), Narita branch, Haneda Airport branch,

Chubu Airport branch, Kansai Airport branch, Fukuoka Airport sub-branch,

Kagoshima Airport sub-branch

◆ Seaport: Yokohama head office, Kobe branch, Osaka sub-branch, Moji branch,

Okinawa branch

Detention facilities where a caretaker company is stationed:

Narita branch, Haneda Airport branch, Kansai Airport branch

Visits during quarantineDetention facilities where a caretaker company is stationed:

Narita branch, Haneda Airport branch, Kansai Airport branch

Visits during quarantine

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Visiting your dog or cat during quarantine is allowed, but the visiting hours and the visitors are

restricted.

For further information, contact Animal Quarantine Service.

If symptoms of rabies or, for dogs, leptospirosis is observed, the quarantine period may be

extended and some additional examinations may be conducted.

・During quarantine, dogs and cats cannot be brought out of the detention facility under any

circumstances, except when the dog or cat is returned to the exporting country.

・Medical treatments at the detention facility by a private veterinarian is allowed. You are strongly

recommended to find a veterinarian, who can come to the detention facility for medical

treatments, before starting quarantine.

・In terms of health care for dogs and cats during quarantine and sanitary control of the detention

facility, vaccinations (combination vaccine) and parasite treatments [→ Reference 3] should be

performed in advance in the exporting country.

Visits during quarantine

If any problems are found during quarantineVisits during

quarantine

If any problems are found during quarantine

PrecautionsIf any problems are found during quarantineVisits

during quarantine

If any problems are found during quarantineVisits during

quarantine

Precautions

[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered before

microchip implantingPrecautions

[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered before

microchip implanting

Eligible dogs and cats[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination

administered before microchip implantingPrecautions

[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered before

microchip implantingPrecautions

If any problems are found during quarantine

PrecautionsIf any problems are found during quarantine

Precautions

[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered before

microchip implantingPrecautionsIf any problems are

found during quarantine

PrecautionsIf any problems are found during quarantine

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Rabies vaccination administered before microchip implanting will be

considered valid only when the following conditions are met.

You are strongly recommended to contact Animal Quarantine Service in advance.

□ A rabies vaccination (rabies vaccination ①) was administered before the microchip was

implanted.

□ At least 91 days old at the time of rabies vaccination ① (the date of birth is counted as day 0).

□ At least 30 days have passed from rabies vaccination ① (the day of vaccination is counted as

day 0) and it is still within the effective period of rabies vaccination ①.

*the effective period [→ STEP 2]

◆ There are two ways:

*① = the first time, ② = the second time

●One time of rabies antibody test

Rabies vaccination ① → Microchip implanting

→

“Blood sampling for rabies antibody test + Rabies vaccination ② (*Both must be performed on

the same day)”

(

Microchip implanting and “Blood sampling for rabies antibody test + Rabies vaccination ②” can be performed on

the same day.)

●Two times of rabies antibody tests

Rabies vaccination ① → Microchip implanting

→ Blood sampling for rabies antibody test ①

→ Rabies vaccination ②

→ Blood sampling for rabies antibody test ②

●→ Rabies

(

Microchip implanting and the blood sampling for rabies antibody test ① can be performed on the same day.)

(

Rabies vaccination ② and the blood sampling for rabies antibody test ② can be performed on the same day.)

◆ Both types must meet the following conditions:

□ The effective period from rabies vaccination ① continues with necessary additional rabies

vaccinations.

□ Inactivated (killed) virus vaccine or recombinant vaccine are used for rabies vaccinations.

[→ STEP 2]

□ All information of rabies vaccinations and rabies antibody tests must be mentioned on the

certificates issued by the government authority of the exporting country. [→ STEP 7]

Eligible dogs and cats

ConditionsEligible dogs and cats

Conditions

ConditionsEligible dogs and cats

Conditions

[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered before microchip implanting

Eligible dogs and cats[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered

before microchip implanting

Eligible dogs and cats

ConditionsEligible dogs and cats[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination

administered before microchip implanting

Eligible dogs and cats[Reference 1] Rabies vaccination administered

before microchip implanting

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Microchip

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test (0.5IU/ml or more)

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test = day 0

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test = day 0

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test = day 0

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test = day 0

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Rabies vaccination ①

※at least 91 days old

Microchip

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ① (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ① (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ① (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ① (0.5IU/ml or more)

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Rabies vaccination ②

＊

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② (0.5IU/ml or more)

Blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② (0.5IU/ml or more)

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② = day 0

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② = day 0

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② = day 0

Waiting period (180 days)

※Date of blood sampling for rabies

antibody test ② = day 0

Flow chart for [Reference 1]

＊At least 30 days have passed from rabies vaccination ① (the date of rabies vaccination ①

is counted as day 0) and it is still within the effective period of rabies vaccine ①

[Reference 2] Notes for transportation＊At least 30 days have passed from rabies vaccination

① (the date of rabies vaccination ① is counted as day 0) and it is still within the effective

period of rabies vaccine ①

[Reference 2] Notes for transportation

1. Ports of entry where import is allowed[Reference 2] Notes for transportation＊At least 30

days have passed from rabies vaccination ① (the date of rabies vaccination ① is counted

as day 0) and it is still within the effective period of rabies vaccine ①

[Reference 2] Notes for transportation＊At least 30 days have passed from rabies vaccination

① (the date of rabies vaccination ① is counted as day 0) and it is still within the effective

period of rabies vaccine ①

● One time of rabies antibody test

Same day is possible

● Two times of rabies antibody tests

Must be

performe

d on the

same day

Must be

performe

d on the

same day

Must be

performe

d on the

same day

Must be

performe

d on the

same day

Same day is possible

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

On transporting dogs and cats, the importer should note the following

matters.

Dogs can be imported only through the following ports.

Ports where cats can be imported are not restricted. If a port of entry other than those listed below

is to be used for importing cats, contact Animal Quarantine Service in advance.

・Dogs and cats that are subject to quarantine for more than 12 hours [→ STEP 8-2] must arrive at

a port with a detention facility.

The following dogs or cats are not suited for transport or quarantine. If it is necessary to import

such animals, we recommend you to contact your veterinarian in advance whether the dog or cat

can endure the transportation and quarantined.

◆ Puppies, kittens or old age

◆ Pregnant or lactating

◆ With a history of illness, sickly, or currently receiving medication (other than for parasite

treatment)

◆ Injured

1. Ports of entry where import is allowed

2. Health condition for transport

3. Transport cage2. Health condition for transport

3. Transport cage

4. Types of transportation3. Transport cage2. Health condition for transport

3. Transport cage2. Health condition for transport

Precautions

2. Health condition for transportPrecautions

2. Health condition for transport

3. Transport cage2. Health condition for

transportPrecautions

2. Health condition for transportPrecautions

[Reference 2] Notes for transportation

1. Ports of entry where import is allowed[Reference 2]

Notes for transportation

1. Ports of entry where import is allowed

1. Ports of entry where import is allowed[Reference 2]

Notes for transportation

1. Ports of entry where import is allowed[Reference 2]

Notes for transportation

◆ Airport: New Chitose Airport, Narita International Airport,

Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), Chubu International Airport,

Kansai International Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, Fukuoka Airport,

Kagoshima Airport, Naha Airport

◆ Seaport: Tomakomai Seaport, Keihin Seaport (Tokyo, Yokohama), Nagoya Seaport,

Hanshin Seaport (Osaka, Hyogo), Kanmon Seaport, Hakata Seaport,

Kagoshima Seaport, Naha Seaport

Precautions◆ Airport: New Chitose Airport, Narita International Airport,

Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), Chubu International Airport,

Kansai International Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, Fukuoka Airport,

Kagoshima Airport, Naha Airport

◆ Seaport: Tomakomai Seaport, Keihin Seaport (Tokyo, Yokohama), Nagoya Seaport,

Hanshin Seaport (Osaka, Hyogo), Kanmon Seaport, Hakata Seaport,

Kagoshima Seaport, Naha Seaport

Precautions

2. Health condition for transportPrecautions◆ Airport: New Chitose Airport, Narita

International Airport,

Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), Chubu International Airport,

Kansai International Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, Fukuoka Airport,

Kagoshima Airport, Naha Airport

◆ Seaport: Tomakomai Seaport, Keihin Seaport (Tokyo, Yokohama), Nagoya Seaport,

Hanshin Seaport (Osaka, Hyogo), Kanmon Seaport, Hakata Seaport,

Kagoshima Seaport, Naha Seaport

Precautions◆ Airport: New Chitose Airport, Narita International Airport,

Tokyo International Airport (Haneda Airport), Chubu International Airport,

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

The importer is responsible for choosing an appropriate transport cage that is not uncomfortable

for the dog or cat but prevents their escape and ensures safe transport. For further information on

the acceptable size or type of transport cages for boarding, contact the airline etc. to be used.

There are two types of transportation: hand luggage (checked baggage) and cargo.

For further information, contact the airline etc. to be used.

◆ Hand luggage (checked baggage)

The dog or cat is to be transported as a carry-on baggage or checked baggage.

If boarded as checked baggage, the dog or cat will be picked up at the area where checked

baggage is picked up.

◆ Cargo

The dog or cat is to be transported as air cargo (or sea cargo).

For air cargo, an “AWB (Air Waybill)” is issued.

For sea cargo, a “B/L (Bill of Lading)” is issued.

Upon arrival in Japan, the dog or cat is transported to the cargo shed (bonded warehouse) in

the cargo area.

Animal quarantine procedures are followed by customs procedures.

・Airlines etc. may apply various restrictions for transportation.

For further information, contact the airline etc. to be used.

3. Transport cage

4. Types of transportation3. Transport cage

4. Types of transportation

Precautions4. Types of transportation3. Transport cage

4. Types of transportation3. Transport cage

4. Types of transportation

Precautions4. Types of transportation

Precautions

[Reference 3] Recommended treatments (vaccinations, parasite

treatment)Precautions4. Types of transportation

Precautions4. Types of transportation

Precautions

[Reference 3] Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)Precautions

[Reference 3] Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)

1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)[Reference 3]

Recommended treatments (vaccinations, parasite

treatment)Precautions

[Reference 3] Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)Precautions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

In terms of animal health care and sanitary control of the detention facility,

the following treatments are recommended.

In particular, for dogs and cats subject to quarantine at a detention facility [→ STEP 8-2]

upon arrival in Japan, vaccinations (combination vaccine) and parasite treatment should

be performed in advance.

◆ For dogs: Distemper, canine adenovirus type 2, canine parvovirus disease, etc.

◆ For cats: Feline viral rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus infection, feline panleukopenia, etc.

・Dogs and cats should be vaccinated under the guidance of your veterinarian to give them

sufficient antibodies.

◆ External parasites: fleas, ticks

◆ Internal parasites: nematodes, cestodes

・The effect of treatment for parasites must be maintained at the time of arrival in Japan.

1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)

Precautions1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)

Precautions

2. Treatment for external and internal parasitesPrecautions1. Vaccinations

(combination vaccine)

Precautions1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)

2. Treatment for external and internal parasites

Precautions2. Treatment for external and internal parasites

Precautions

C. List of Animal Quarantine ServicePrecautions2. Treatment for external and

internal parasites

Precautions2. Treatment for external and internal parasites

Precautions

2. Treatment for external and internal parasitesPrecautions

2. Treatment for external and internal parasites

Precautions2. Treatment for external and internal

parasitesPrecautions

2. Treatment for external and internal parasitesPrecautions

[Reference 3] Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)

1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)[Reference 3]

Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)

1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)

Precautions1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)[Reference 3]

Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)

1. Vaccinations (combination vaccine)[Reference 3]

Recommended treatments

(vaccinations, parasite treatment)

Precautions

C. List of Animal Quarantine ServicePrecautions

C. List of Animal Quarantine Service

D. Management after import into JapanC. List of Animal

Quarantine ServicePrecautions

C. List of Animal Quarantine ServicePrecautions

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

Name

Airport, Seaport

TEL

FAX

E-mail address

Hokkaido and Tohoku Branch

Tomakomai Seaport,

New Chitose Airport

+81-123-24-6080

+81-123-24-6091

[email protected]

Contact for travel of dog & cat at

Narita Airport, Haneda Airport,and

Kansai Airport

Narita International Airport

Tokyo International Airport

(Haneda Airport)

Kansai International Airport

+81-3-5708-7261

+81-3-6428-9953

Please use the e-mail

address of the airport

where you will be arriving.

Narita Branch (Terminal 1)

Narita International Airport

+81-476-32-6510

+81-476-30-3011

[email protected]

Narita Branch (Terminal 2)

Narita International Airport

+81-476-34-2342

+81-476-34-2338

[email protected]

Narita Branch (Cargo)

Narita International Airport

+81-476-32-6655

+81-476-30-3012

aqs[email protected]

Haneda Airport Branch

(Terminal 3)

Tokyo International Airport

(Haneda Airport)

+81-3-5757-9752

+81-3-5757-9759

[email protected]

Yokohama Head Office

Animal Quarantine Division

Keihin Seaport

(Tokyo, Yokohama)

+81-45-751-5973

+81-45-751-5951

[email protected]

Chubu Airport Branch

Chubu International Airport

+81-569-38-8577

+81-569-38-8585

[email protected]

Nagoya Sub-branch

Nagoya Seaport

+81-52-651-0334

+81-52-661-0203

[email protected]

Kansai Airport Branch

Kansai International Airport

+81-72-455-1956

+81-72-455-1957

[email protected]

Kansai Airport Branch (Cargo)

Kansai International Airport

+81-72-455-1958

+81-72-455-1959

[email protected]

Kobe Branch

Hanshin Seaport (Hyogo)

+81-78-222-8990

+81-78-222-8993

[email protected]

Osaka Sub-branch

Hanshin Seaport (Osaka)

+81-6-6575-3466

+81-6-6575-0977

[email protected]

Moji Branch

Kanmon Seaport,

Kitakyushu Airport

+81-93-321-1116

+81-93-332-5858

[email protected]

Hakata Sub-branch

Hakata Seaport

+81-92-262-5285

+81-92-262-5283

[email protected]

Fukuoka Airport Sub-branch

Fukuoka Airport

+81-92-477-0080

+81-92-477-7580

[email protected]

Kagoshima Airport Sub-branch

Kagoshima Airport,

Kagoshima Seaport

+81-995-43-9061

+81-995-43-9066

[email protected]

Okinawa Branch

Naha Seaport

+81-98-861-4370

+81-98-862-0093

[email protected].jp

Naha Airport Sub-branch

Naha Airport

+81-98-857-4468

+81-98-859-1646

[email protected]

C. List of Animal Quarantine Service

D. Management after import into JapanC. List of Animal Quarantine

Service

D. Management after import into Japan

1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)D. Management after

import into JapanC. List of Animal Quarantine Service

D. Management after import into JapanC. List of Animal Quarantine

Service

Guide to importing dogs and cats (from Non-designated regions)

The owner must obey the domestic laws after importing dogs and cats.

Under the Rabies Prevention Law, dogs must be registered with the municipality where they are

kept.

The owner must bring the “Import Quarantine Certificate for Dogs”, issued by Animal Quarantine

Service, to the municipality for registration within 30 days of import.

For further information, contact the municipality office.

Under the Rabies Prevention Law, dogs must be vaccinated against rabies once a year.

For further information, contact the municipality office.

The microchip number (currently only those in accordance with ISO standards) can be

registered domestically with a copy of the “Import Quarantine Certificate,” issued by Animal

Quarantine Service.

When a lost dog or cat is found in Japan, its owner can be identified if the microchip number is

registered. For further information, contact AIPO (Animal ID Promotion Organization).

◆ AIPO (Animal ID Promotion Organization) office: Japan Veterinary Medical Association

Phone: 03-3475-1695 Fax: 03-3475-1697

・Import Quarantine Certificate will be necessary to export the dog or cat that has been imported

into Japan.

・If you are planning to export your dog or cat, apply for export to Animal Quarantine Service at

least 7 days prior to export.

1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)

2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)

2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)

3. Microchip registration (optional)2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)1.

Registration with municipality (only for dogs)

2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)

2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)

3. Microchip registration (optional)2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)

3. Microchip registration (optional)

Precautions3. Microchip registration (optional)2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)

3. Microchip registration (optional)2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)

3. Microchip registration (optional)

Precautions3. Microchip registration (optional)

Precautions

D. Management after import into Japan

1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)D. Management after

import into Japan

1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)

2. Rabies vaccination (only for dogs)1. Registration with municipality

(only for dogs)D. Management after import into Japan

1. Registration with municipality (only for dogs)D. Management after

import into Japan