Complete Guide to Malaysia Import Procedures for Dogs and Cats｜Regulations, Costs, Preparation, and Local Procedures

Bringing pets to Malaysia requires compliance with strict regulations and complex procedures. Of particular importance is the fact that an Import Permit can only be obtained through a local company. This is a strict regulation established in the interest of animal health management and prevention of infectious diseases in Malaysia.

Malaysia's Regulations on Importation of Dogs and Cats

Import Permit Important Points for Import Permits

Application must be made through a local subsidiary

• • No direct personal applications will be accepted.
  • Local company registration or permit required.
  • All application documents must be in Malay or English

1-2 months required to obtain

• • 2-3 weeks to prepare documents
  • 3-4 weeks for review by authorities
  • If additional documentation is required, more time is needed.

Valid for 3 months from issuance

• • Must enter the country within the time limit
  • Must reapply if expired
  • Reapplication will incur additional costs.

PetAir JPN supports the reliable acquisition of import permits through our affiliated local subsidiaries. Our many years of experience in accurate documentation and smooth communication with local authorities ensure smooth acquisition of permits.

Required Documents and Important Points for Preparation

Microchipping

• ISO standard (11784/11785) compliant microchip required
• Important to confirm reliable operation after installation
• Retention and photocopying of proof of fitment required.

Immunization and antibody titer testing

• Vaccination at 91 days of age or older
• Rabies vaccination (2 or more required)
• Antibody titer test must be 0.5 IU/ml or higher
• Test results are valid for 2 years

Health Examination and Certificate

• Medical examination within 1 week of departure is required
• Obtaining health certificates in English
• Confirmation of microchip number entry
• Specify vaccination history

Import restrictions and banned breeds in Malaysia

Check for banned dog breeds

**The following breeds are prohibited from importation:**
- Akita (breed of dog)
- tosa (Japanese dog breed)
- American bulldog (dog breed)
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Neapolitan mastiff (dog breed)
- pit bull terrier

Regulated dog breeds

**The following breeds require special permission:**
- bullmastiff (Cercocebus atys)
- bull terrier
- Doberman
- German sheperd

PetAir JPN will perform a preliminary confirmation of your pet's breed and explain in detail whether importation is possible and what additional procedures are required.

Important Information on Transportation and Quarantine

Preparation for air transportation

1. seasonal restrictions

- Summer (May-September) temperature restrictions
- Winter Cold Weather Protection
- Check regulations of each airline

2. crate (transport cage) requirements

- Must meet IATA standards
- Size that allows pets to stand and turn around
- Obligation to install water supply equipment
- Robust materials and proper ventilation

The following article explains more about pet crates.

3. precautions for transportation

- Flight time considerations
- Confirmation of additional restrictions for transit flights
- Arrival time and quarantine station business hours adjustment

PetAir JPN offers the best transportation plan for your pet, from arranging an IATA-approved crate to coordinating with the airline.

Cost and Timeframe

Required cost items (approximate)

1. pre-departure preparation expenses

- Microchipping: 5,000-10,000 yen
- Immunization: 10,000-15,000 yen per dose
- Antibody titer test: 15,000-20,000 yen
- Medical examination and certificate: 10,000-15,000 yen

2. import/export processing fees

- Export quarantine application fee
- Import Permit Application Fee
- Local quarantine fee
- Customs Clearance Fees

Transportation-related expenses

- airfare
- Crate rental fee
- insurance premium

Required preparation period

- Overall preparation time: minimum 4-6 months
- Obtain import permit: 1-2 months
- Document preparation time: 2-3 weeks
- Quarantine procedure: 1-2 business days

PetAir JPN will provide a detailed estimate and schedule at the time of the initial consultation. Any additional costs incurred will be clearly explained in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Procedures

Q1: Can an individual apply for an import permit?
A: No, due to Malaysian regulations, you must apply through a local subsidiary.

Q2: When should I start preparing?
A: We recommend starting preparations at least 4-6 months prior to departure. It is especially important to prepare well in advance, as it takes 1-2 months to obtain an import permit.

Transportation

Q3: What if there are no direct flights?
A: For flights via transit, additional considerations are necessary, such as checking regulations and temperature control at the transit point.

Q4: What should I keep in mind for large dogs?
A: For large dogs, special attention should be paid to crate size and airline regulations. Some airlines also have seasonal restrictions. Please consult with us individually for details.

Other frequently asked questions are discussed in more detail in the following articles.

PetAir JPN Support

**Safe and reliable pet transportation service by PetAir JPN with its extensive experience and solid expertise:**

One-stop service

- All necessary documentation for import/export
- Acquisition of import licenses by affiliated local subsidiaries
- Handling of reservations and applications to the quarantine station

Support for your safety on the official line

- Emergency response
- Prompt response to incomplete documents
- 24/7 support system

Abundant experience

- Extensive international transportation experience
- Numerous shipments to Malaysia
- Experience and knowledge of trouble-shooting
- Trust with local subsidiaries and local authorities

Click here to contact us for a quote.
Leave the international transportation of your precious pets to PetAir JPN, which has a wealth of experience and solid expertise.

References:

1. Malaysia Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) Official Guidelines
2. Japan Animal Quarantine Service Procedures for exporting pets overseas
3. International Air Transport Association (IATA) Pet Transport Regulations

Regulations are subject to change without notice, so please be sure to check back for the latest information.

Please share your experiences and opinions!

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