Professional Pet Shipping to Japan
International pet relocation planning for Japan, including documentation coordination, travel-kennel guidance, and airline-option research for your itinerary.
Japan’s pet import process has several fixed deadlines. For a pet starting the standard process from the United States, the sequence is an ISO microchip, two valid rabies vaccinations, a rabies antibody test, then at least 180 days from the blood-draw date before arrival. The 40-day AQS notification is a separate deadline within that preparation window.
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Japan travel takes at least seven months for new U.S. plans
For pets starting the standard process from the United States, Japan requires at least 180 days from the rabies-antibody blood draw before arrival. That blood draw follows microchipping and two valid rabies vaccinations, so a new plan normally needs at least seven months.
Submit Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) notification no less than 40 days before arrival, and confirm the final plan directly with AQS before paying for travel.
Read the official AQS import requirementsWhy Choose BestPetTravel for Japan Shipping
Our specialized expertise and country-specific knowledge ensure your pet’s safe journey to Japan.
Complex Requirements Handled
Expert navigation of detailed Asian import requirements and quarantine procedures.
Airline Options Reviewed
Carrier availability and pet-acceptance policies must be confirmed for the specific route, season, crate, and pet.
Personal Care
Dedicated handlers provide personalized attention throughout your pet's journey.
Essential Information
Key details for planning your pet’s journey to Japan.
Possible carriers; policy and space must be confirmed for the specific trip.
Carrier names are not promised on this page. Ask for the options available for your pet and itinerary in writing.
Import inspection can be completed within 12 hours when every AQS requirement is met; otherwise detention quarantine can last up to 180 days.
Import Requirements for Japan
Complete requirements checklist to ensure your pet’s smooth entry into Japan.
Health Certificate
An export certificate from the exporting country’s government authority must contain the information required by Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service (AQS).
AQS Advance Notification
Required — submit the notification to AQS no less than 40 days before arrival and retain its approval for the trip.
Microchip
Required - ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip must be implanted before rabies vaccination.
Required Vaccinations
Rabies Antibody Test
Required — after the second valid rabies vaccination, use a designated laboratory and wait at least 180 days from the blood-draw date before arrival.
Specific Regulations for Japan
Important breed and crate requirements you need to know.
IATA compliant crate. Cargo arrival only for most airlines.
Note: We provide custom IATA-compliant crates guaranteed to meet all airline and government standards for Japan.
Important Information for Japan
Essential restrictions and considerations for your pet’s journey.
Dogs may enter only through designated airports or seaports
Your pet must arrive within the validity periods for both its rabies vaccination and rabies antibody test
Note: Our team will guide you through all restrictions and ensure full compliance.
For dogs and cats entering from non-designated regions, AQS requires advance notification at least 40 days before arrival. The importer should confirm every requirement directly with AQS before booking travel.
Expert Support: Our specialists stay current with all regulatory changes.
Your Pet’s Journey to Japan
Our proven 5-step process ensures a smooth, stress-free journey for your beloved pet.
Initial Consultation & Planning
Contact us for a detailed consultation about your specific requirements, timeline, and Japan regulations. We’ll create a personalized shipping plan.
Veterinary Preparation
Begin veterinary preparation including health certificates, required vaccinations (Two valid rabies vaccinations), rabies antibody testing, and microchipping.
Documentation & Permits
We handle all government endorsements, import permits, USDA-APHIS certification, and Japan customs documentation requirements.
Travel Arrangements
Confirm carrier availability and pet-acceptance rules for the specific itinerary, arrange travel kennels that meet the carrier’s requirements, and coordinate the agreed pickup and delivery logistics for your pet’s journey.
Departure & Reunion
Safe transport with real-time updates, assistance with customs clearance in Japan, quarantine facility coordination, and reunion planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about pet shipping to Japan.
Have more questions about shipping to Japan?
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Real families we’ve helped relocate their beloved pets worldwide.
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