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I want to bring my dog or cat to Malaysia, but the procedure seems complicated and I don't know where to start...? Do you have such concerns?
Especially from 2024, Malaysia's regulations are becoming stricter, and there are more and more cases of people getting into trouble at the airport because they don't have enough information to prepare on their own. Because you are traveling with your precious pet, you definitely do not want to make a mistake.
Hello, we are PetAir JPN and have helped over 1,000 pets and their families move overseas! We at PetAir JPN have helped more than 1,000 pets and their families move overseas. In this article, we will explain the "really important points" for taking your pet to Malaysia in an easy-to-understand manner, based on the latest information that we know because we are experts in this field.
Important] Reality of Malaysian Pet Imports in 2025
First of all, I would like to conclude that pet importation to Malaysia is,If you follow the right procedures and prepare properly, you'll be fine.It is. But it is also true that the preparation for this is a bit more difficult. First, let us know what is going on.
📝 Current status summary you need to know
- How long does it take to prepare?: Watch for at least 6 to 12 weeks.
- What is the cost?The cost is approximately 60,000-120,000 yen if you proceed on your own, or 300,000-750,000 yen if you use a professional contractor.
- What breeds of dogs can't you take?Seven breeds, including the Akita, have been designated.
- Is quarantine necessary?Japan is one of the exempted countries!
- Can I apply by myself?: Unfortunately, starting in 2024.It is essential to go through a specialized contractor.The company is now in the process of
It is especially important to note that the import permit is valid forOnly 30 daysThe timing can be wrong. If you make a mistake in timing, your preparation could end up in vain.
Customer Testimonials
Words alone may not be enough to convey the message. So we would like to share with you a few heartwarming messages we have received from actual clients who have used our support.
It was reassuring to know that my first overseas shipment was in good hands!"
Thank you very much for your warm support. Thanks to PetAir, I am here today. It was the first time for me to do this, and there was a lot I didn't know, but I was able to ask anything, and you gave me appropriate advice and assistance so that I could prepare well in advance. Thank you so much.
▶︎Customer Testimonials- HS who traveled from Japan to Malaysia with his dog
I was impressed with your professionalism, even with the last minute schedule!"
I am so relieved that we were able to transport my cat safely to Malaysia despite the last-minute schedule. We were really worried about whether we would be able to make it in time due to the tight schedule, but thanks to your prompt and precise response, the whole process went smoothly. In particular, I was impressed by the professionalism with which you calmly handled an unexpected problem right before the transport. We feel great joy and relief that our entire family is able to start a new life together. I would highly recommend your service to anyone who is concerned about transporting their pets overseas."
▶︎Customer Testimonials- Mr. K who traveled from Thailand to Malaysia with his cat
Leave it to the experts! PetAir JPN's reliable and consistent support
If you feel that it is too difficult to do it by yourself, please don't worry.
At PetAir JPN, we take care of everything from export procedures from Japan to obtaining import permits in Malaysia and handling quarantine at the local level,A one-stop shop for all your requestsIt is.
🤝 What we can promise
- Troublesome procedures can be thrown in.We can handle all complex import/export procedures on your behalf: in collaboration with local professionals with whom we have partnerships.
- Solid knowledge and experienceWe provide thorough support for the safe transportation of your precious dogs and cats with our wealth of knowledge based on our experience in international pet transportation.
- Attending to the family's concernsWe will not only take care of the procedures, but also attend to the anxieties of the family and answer any small questions they may have in detail.
Backsliding: First, we will consult with you free of charge ／ First, we will consult with you free of charge
No matter how trivial it may seem, we are happy to help. Our professional staff will answer you in detail.
MAQIS Latest Regulations - What's Changed?
Major changes from 2024
The changes made by Malaysia Quarantine and Inspection Services (MAQIS) in 2024 have quite a significant impact, to be honest.
💡 Main changes
- All applications must be submitted online.: Applications with paper forms have been completely eliminated.
- Complete prohibition of individual applicationsThe following is a list of the agents who are registered to act on behalf of the company.
- DVS pre-approval system: Before MAQIS can be completed, it must first be approved by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).
legal basis
- Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Act 2011 (Act 728)
- Animal Act 1953 (Revised 2006)
- Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2023
Recently, we are really getting a lot of inquiries from people who say, "I was gathering documents with the intention of doing it myself, but in the middle of the process I found out that I can't file an individual application...". To avoid wasting time, the best choice is to leave it to a professional firm from the beginning.
The application process has changed like this
- STEP 1: Pre-screening at DVS
Cost: RM5 (about 150 yen) per head
Turnaround time: 3-5 business days
Contact: skie@dvs.gov.my - STEP 2: Permit issued by MAQIS
Cost: RM2 (about 60 yen) per head
Time required: 1 business day
Validity period:30 days only (no extensions allowed)
In our experience, the screening process at DVS takes the longest. The key to success is to schedule your appointment with plenty of time to spare.
Prohibited and restricted breeds that you should definitely know about
Breeds (7) that are completely banned from importation
The following breeds and their mixed breeds are not allowed to be imported into Malaysia for any reason
- Pit bull terriers (also includes American pit bulls and American Staffordshire terriers)
- Akita (breed of dog)
- American bulldog (dog breed)
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- tosa (Japanese dog breed)
- Neapolitan Mastiff (added in 2024)
💡Toys knowledge
Many people are surprised to learn that Akita dogs are included in this list because of their aggression. Many people are surprised to hear this, but it seems to be included in the list from the standpoint of aggressiveness.
Breeds that can be imported with special permission (6 breeds)
The following breeds may be imported if special approval is obtained from the MAQIS Director
- bullmastiff (Cercocebus atys)
- bull terrier
- Doberman
- German Shepherds (including Bergian Shepherds)
- Pero de Presa Canario
- Rottweiler
📝 Necessary for special approval
- Written authorization from the Director of MAQIS
- Certification regarding the safety of the residence
- Declaration of Non-Commercial Purpose
- A pledge to always wear a leash and muzzle when walking
This special approval must be obtained before2-4 weeksIt will take time. If applicable, preparations should begin earlier than usual.
It makes a big difference if the country is a quarantine-exempt country or not!
8 countries exempt from quarantine
Fortunately, Japan is included in the list of quarantine-exempt countries. If you are traveling from one of the following countries and meet the requirements, you can be picked up immediately upon arrival.
- Japan
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Northern Ireland
- Australia (but 10 days is required to prevent Hendra virus)
- New Zealand
- Sweden
- Brunei
- Singapore (minimum 6 months residency required)
✅ Conditions for Exemption
- Must have resided in the country of departure for at least 6 months
- No reported rabies outbreak in the country for the past two years
- All required documents must be in perfect order.
Quarantine required from other countries
The following quarantine periods are required for travel from non-exempt countries.
- basic period7-14 days
- Maximum periodUp to 6 months depending on risk
- Main Quarantine Facilities：KLIA Sepang, Penang International Airport, Padang Besar
- Cost per dayRM3-5 (about 90-150 yen)
⚠️ Notes
Reservations for quarantine facilities can be made atUp to 2 weeks in advanceIt is necessary to Early reservations are important, especially at KLIA Sepang, as it is very crowded.
Document Preparation - This is the hardest part!
Microchip: the first barrier
⚠️ Rules that must be followed
Timing of installation is most importantIt is. Be sure to.Before the rabies vaccine is administeredMicrochip must be attached. If you make a mistake in this order, all vaccinations will have to be redone.
- standardChip: 15-digit chip compliant with ISO 11784 or 11785
- typeOnly for unencrypted type
- disabledTip: Tips starting with "999" are not available.
- required documents: Certificate of fitting signed by a veterinarian.
The following article explains microchipping in detail.
Vaccination Schedule
rabies vaccine
- Inoculation PeriodFrom 3 months of age
- term of validityWithin 30 days to 12 months prior to entry into Malaysia
- type: Inactivated or recombinant vaccines only
The following article explains more about the rabies vaccine.
Other recommended vaccines
- snoop (i.e. a detective, a spy, etc.): DHLPP (distemper, hepatitis, leptospira, parainfluenza, parvovirus)
- catFVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia)
The following article provides more information on vaccination.
Rabies antibody titer test (for non-exempt countries)
This inspection is not required for those coming from Japan, but is mandatory for those coming from non-exempt countries.
- Required antibody titerIU/mL: ≥0.5 IU/mL
- Recommended Inspection MethodFAVN or RFFIT
- Implementation timing30 days after rabies vaccination and 3-12 months prior to entry into Malaysia
Pre-departure medical examination and parasite control
Preparation just prior to departure is also extremely important.
📝 Health Examination Checklist
- Implementation periodWithin 1 week of departure
- implementorGovernment-certified veterinarian
- Certificate LanguageEnglish or Malay
- Internal parasite control: conducted 2-7 days prior to departure (nematodes and striped worms)
- External parasite controlPerformed 2-7 days prior to departure (fleas and ticks)
- Inclusion in certificatesPet information: pet information, vaccine history, extermination records, health status
Choice of airline is also an important point [from Japan].
Several airlines offer pet transportation from Japan to Malaysia. The choice depends on whether it is a direct flight or a connecting flight, and on each company's rules. Here is a comparison of typical airlines.
Japanese Airlines (JAL, ANA)
After all, the greatest advantage is the peace of mind that comes from being able to consult in Japanese. It will be easy to proceed smoothly with the procedures at the airport in Japan.
- featureIn principle, pets are checked in as "checked baggage". Pets are not allowed in the cabin (except for service dogs).
- reservationNote: Because of the space requirements for transporting pets, you must always call to request pet transportation when you book your airline ticket. Note that this cannot be completed through the website alone.
- procedureOn the day of departure, please come to the counter earlier than the normal check-in time to complete the necessary procedures.
Foreign airlines (Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, etc.)
Choosing a company with a reputation for direct flights and generous pet care is also a good choice.
- Malaysia AirlinesKuala Lumpur: There are direct flights from Japan (Narita and Kansai International Airports) to Kuala Lumpur to minimize the travel time. This is also available as checked baggage.
- Singapore Airlines: The flight will be via Singapore, and the airline has a worldwide reputation as a pet-friendly airline. If you have a long layover, you may want to ask about pet care.
Use of LCCs (low-cost carriers)
In LCCs such as AirAsia and ZIPAIR,Basically, we do not accept pet transportation other than service dogs.Please note that LCCs are not an option when traveling with pets, even if you want to keep costs down.
⚠️ Common checkpoints for choosing an airline
No matter which airline you choose, be sure to check and prepare the following points in advance.
- Cage regulationsCrate: A sturdy cage (crate) that meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards is required. Be sure to check the size and material regulations.
- Breed Restrictions: Short-headed breeds, such as French Bulldogs, may be restricted by airline and season due to respiratory risks.
- Seasonal and temperature restrictions: During high summer temperatures and low winter temperatures, transport may be halted to protect the health of pets. Particular attention should be paid to afternoon flights in summer.
- ChargeNote: The cost of transporting pets varies greatly depending on the size and weight of the cage. Be sure to check the estimate at the time of booking.
The following article explains pet gauges (crates) in detail.
East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak) is a different world!
Jurisdiction differs from the mainland.
East Malaysia operates under a completely different set of rules than the mainland Malay Peninsula.
- Sabah: Jurisdiction of the State Department of Veterinary Services and Livestock Industry.
- Sarawak: State Agriculture Department (Veterinary Division) has jurisdiction.
Special rules for Sabah
⚠️ Key Points in Sabah
Rabies antibody titer testing is required even from Japan.(≥0.5 IU/mL),Minimum 30-day quarantineis required. The quarantine applies even if you are traveling from the mainland.
- quarantine periodMinimum 30 days, maximum 180 days
- Quarantine Location: Kinarut Veterinary and Quarantine Station in Papar.
- Cost (per day)Large dogs RM5, small dogs and cats RM3
Features of Sarawak
- Validity period of import license3 months (longer than 30 days on the mainland)
- legal basisVeterinary Public Health Ordinance 1999
- designated port of entryKuching International Airport and Senali Port only
Realistic costs and timelines
How much does it actually cost?
- DIY from exempt countries30,000 to 75,000 yen
- DIY from non-exempt countries60,000-120,000 yen
- Intra-Southeast Asia MigrationFrom 45,000 yen to 120,000 yen
- Hire a specialized contractor300,000 - 750,000 yen (full support)
More than 90% of first-time pet importers use a specialized company. This is a wise choice, considering the complexity of the paperwork and the need to deal with unforeseen circumstances.
How much time do you need? (Ideal schedule)
- 3 months agoMicrochipping and rabies vaccination
- 2 months ago: Other combination vaccinations and antibody titer testing (for non-exempt countries)
- 1 month ago: Apply for pre-approval to DVS and book airline flights
- 2 weeks ago: Application for import permit to MAQIS, appointment at quarantine facility (if necessary)
- 1 week beforeFinal medical examination and health certificates
This is only an ideal.Minimum 1.5 months required.However, there are risks involved. Be especially careful during the year-end and New Year holidays and summer vacation, when various procedures take longer than usual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply as an individual?
A: Unfortunately, direct individual applications are completely prohibited starting in 2024. You must always go through an agent (professional contractor) registered with MAQIS.
Q2: When should I start preparing?
A: We recommend starting at least 3-4 months in advance. For dogs from non-exempt countries or restricted breeds, it is safer to start preparation 6 months in advance.
Q3: Is quarantine absolutely necessary?
A: If you are from one of the eight designated countries, including Japan, and meet all requirements, you are exempt. From other countries, a minimum quarantine period of 7 days is required.
Q4: What if the dog is a mongrel and I am not sure if it is a mix with a prohibited breed?
A: If the characteristics of a prohibited breed are recognized, there is a possibility that the importation will be denied. Since individual screening is based on photographs, etc., we recommend that you check with MAQIS in advance if you are concerned.
Q5: Can I enter East Malaysia directly?
A: It is possible. However, completely different rules apply than on the mainland. You will need to check with your state's veterinary office individually, for example, Sabah requires a minimum of 30 days quarantine.
Q6: Are there any effects after the Corona disaster?
A: There are no major changes to the rules themselves, but on the operational side, the registered agent system and document screening have been made more stringent. There is also the effect of continued flight reductions by some airlines.
Other frequently asked questions can be found in the following pages.
Summary: For safe and secure pet importation
Traveling with pets to Malaysia is not difficult if you plan and prepare with the right knowledge and work with trusted professionals.
📝 Five final points to remember
- Prepare early.: Start at least 3-4 months in advance.
- Experts are required.: After 2024, individual applications will not be accepted. Find a partner you can trust.
- Microchip top priority: Before anything else, always put it on before vaccination.
- Permit expires in 30 days.The best time to apply is when you are planning to travel to Japan.
- East Malaysia is a different rule.Note: If your destination is Sabah or Sarawak, you should be especially careful.
A new life with your beloved pet is just around the corner. We will wholeheartedly assist you in taking the first steps toward that goal.
Now it's your turn.
If you have any concerns or questions, please do not worry alone. We will never force you to make a decision just because you have consulted with us. We will do our best to help you make the best choice for you and your pet.
Backsliding: First, we will consult with you free of charge ／ First, we will consult with you free of charge
For those who want to know how to travel overseas with their pet dog or cat. PetAirJPN, which places top priority on reducing the burden on pets, provides a thorough guide to means of transportation, preparation steps, regulations by country, and cost estimates, with a focus on in-flight and checked baggage. Why not plan a safe trip with your precious family member with the support of our experts?
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