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Pet Relocation to Japan

Relocating your pet to Japan requires careful planning under strict animal import regulations. Our veterinary-led team manages every step — from microchipping and rabies testing to documentation and quarantine compliance — ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation.

Fanya.jpg
Fanya
Relocated to Japan
Moving to Japan 
​Japan is a rabies free country  therefore it has one of the most strict pet import policies. Advance preparation, including vaccinations and blood testing, is essential. Early planning helps to ensures a seamless entry process. If all steps are completed correctly, there is no quarantine required on arrival for HK pets.
 
Key Requirements ✅
  • ISO-compliant microchip (before vaccinations)
  • Rabies vaccination (minimum 2 doses)
  • Rabies antibody (RNATT) blood test (after second rabies vaccination)
  • Preparation timeline: typically 7–8 months, driven by the 180-day RNATT waiting period
  • Advance notification to Japanese authorities
  • Pre-export veterinary Animal health certificate.

All relocations are managed under veterinary supervision, with a priority on health, welfare and safety at every step.

Pet Travel Requirements for Japan

Clear guidance on requirements, documentation, and process to ensure a smooth and compliant relocation.

Importing Pets to Japan

Japan requires strict compliance with vaccination and testing protocols. Pets must meet all conditions before travel to qualify for reduced quarantine on arrival.

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   •    Microchip identification (mandatory)
   •    Two rabies vaccinations (as per timeline)
   •    Rabies antibody blood test (RNATT)

   •    180-day waiting period: Japan requires a 180-day waiting  period from the date of the RNATT blood sample collection  before entry.
   •    Advance notification submission
   •    Approved travel and entry procedures

   •    RNATT validity: The RNATT result remains valid for 2 years, subject to maintaining the required rabies vaccination status.

Required Documentation

Accurate documentation is critical for entry into Japan. This includes vaccination records, laboratory test reports, advance notification approval, and official health certificates.

Health Checks & Vaccinations

Pets must meet Japan’s strict health standards before travel. This includes rabies vaccinations, blood testing, and veterinary certification confirming fitness to fly.

Quarantine Requirements

Quarantine duration depends on compliance. Pets meeting all requirements may qualify for minimal or no quarantine, while non-compliance can result in extended quarantine periods.

Process Timeline

Pet relocation to Japan typically takes 7–8 months, mainly due to vaccination schedules and the 180-day RNATT waiting period.

Veterinary-Led Relocation Support

All relocations are managed under veterinary supervision, ensuring compliance with Japan’s import regulations. Our team handles the process end-to-end for a safe and hassle-free experience.

Led by Dr Gerry (IPATA President), our approach combines clinical expertise with global relocation experience. This ensures your pet’s journey is safe, compliant, and professionally managed at every stage.

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Import Pets
Export Pets
Documents
Health checks
Quarantine
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Frequently Asked Questions – Pet Travel to Japan

How long does it take to relocate a pet to Japan?

It typically takes 7–8 months, driven by the 180-day RNATT waiting period and vaccination scheduling.

Is quarantine required for pets entering Japan?

It depends on compliance. Pets meeting all requirements may need no quarantine.

What documents are required for pet relocation to Japan?

Vaccination records, RNATT test results, advance notification approval, and health certificate.

Can you manage the full relocation process?

Yes, our veterinary-led team handles everything from preparation to arrival.

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