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Last Updated: August 1, 2026
Who This Article Is For
- This article is,Overseas Assignments and Relocation Due to Company AssignmentsThis section focuses specifically on situations where you’re bringing a pet with you and explains the precautions unique to an overseas assignment, as well as the preparation process.
- If you'd like a more detailed and comprehensive overview of the entire process, regardless of your destination,How to Take Your Pet from Japan to Another Country | A Complete Guide to Procedures and PreparationsPlease see this as well.
Taking Your Pet with You on an Overseas Assignment or Leaving It Behind in Japan — Tips for Your Family’s Decision
When a family learns they’ll be relocating overseas, one of the first decisions they face is whether to take their pets with them or leave them behind in Japan. There’s no single “right” answer; the best course of action depends on the length of the assignment, the conditions at the destination, and the pet’s specific circumstances. Here, we’ll outline some key factors to consider when making this decision.
Perspectives to Consider When Making Decisions
- Projected Duration of the Assignment — Whether you’re on a short-term assignment with plans to return home within a few years or on a long-term assignment with an indefinite duration will affect how burdensome it feels to bring your family along.
- Quarantine Requirements at the Destination — The physical strain on your pet will vary depending on whether the destination requires antibody testing, a long waiting period, and quarantine upon arrival, or whether the procedures are relatively less stringent.
- Pet's Age and Health Status — For pets that are elderly or have pre-existing medical conditions, the travel itself may be stressful. Please consult closely with your regular veterinarian before deciding whether to travel.
- Family Situation — Factors such as your spouse’s work schedule, the timing of your children’s school transfers, and whether you have relatives in Japan who can provide support also influence who will be responsible for caring for your pet.
- Options for Staying in Japan — There are several options available, such as entrusting your pet to a trusted family member or friend, or using a pet hotel or long-term boarding service. Be sure to check the acceptance criteria and duration for each option in advance.
Whichever option you choose, it’s important to make a decision that satisfies both your pet and your family. If you decide to bring your pet along, let’s move on to the next chapter to start making specific preparations.
Three Key Perspectives to Keep in Mind When Relocating for Work
Unlike cases where individuals decide to move abroad on their own initiative, many of the schedules and conditions for an overseas assignment are determined in advance by the company’s official order. Here, we’ll outline three perspectives unique to overseas assignments.
① The departure date often cannot be changed
In the case of domestic transfers or overseas assignments, it is not uncommon for the departure date to be fixed in advance to coincide with the start date of work at the new location. It is important to note that for destinations requiring time-consuming procedures—such as antibody titer tests or obtaining import permits—the preparation period tends to be tight when calculated backward from the departure date. As soon as you receive your transfer order, it’s a good idea to check the quarantine requirements for your destination and determine early on whether an antibody titer test is required.
② This overlaps with the coordination of the entire accompanying family
Tasks associated with a work assignment—such as finding a place to live, handling your spouse’s employment and visa procedures, and preparing your children to transfer schools—affect the entire family. Since you may not always be able to focus solely on pet-related arrangements, dividing responsibilities among family members and sharing the overall schedule early on will help you avoid last-minute stress.
③ Pet-related expenses are not necessarily covered under the company's benefits plan.
Whether a company’s relocation support program—which typically covers moving expenses and housing allowances—includes the costs of pet transportation and quarantine varies by company. If these costs are not covered, you will generally be responsible for the veterinary treatment and transportation fees yourself. Once your assignment is confirmed, it’s a good idea to check with the Human Resources or General Affairs department as soon as possible so you can better plan for these expenses.
What are the three things you should check first before taking your pet with you?
How to take your dog or cat from Japan to overseas,Export quarantine on the Japanese sideandEntry Requirements for Your DestinationYou must meet both of these requirements. If either one is missing, you may be unable to travel or be detained upon entry. Here are the three basic requirements you need to know first.
| terms | Contents | important point |
|---|---|---|
| ① Microchip Implantation | Implantation of a microchip that complies with international standards (ISO 11784 and 11785) | As a general rule, it should be attached before the rabies vaccination. The number must be accurately transcribed onto all relevant certificates. |
| ② Rabies Vaccination | Get a rabies vaccine after having a microchip implanted | The number of doses required and the interval between doses before departure vary depending on your destination. Be sure to check the official information from the authorities at your destination. |
| ③ Rabies Antibody Titer Test | If required by the destination country, have blood drawn at a designated testing facility to verify antibody levels | Threshold values, testing facilities, and the time required to receive results vary depending on the destination. If you plan to return to Japan from a location other than a designated region (Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands, Hawaii, or Guam) in the future, additional requirements set by Japan—such as an antibody titer of 0.5 IU/ml or higher and a waiting period of at least 180 days after the blood draw—will also apply. (Separate procedures apply for returning from designated regions. Source: Animal Quarantine Service) |
Preparation Timeline | Counting Back from the Assignment Order
Since the departure date for company-sponsored assignments is often fixed, it’s best to plan your schedule by working backward from the date the assignment order is issued. While the complexity of the necessary procedures varies depending on your destination, the general process is as follows.
As Soon as Your Assignment Is Confirmed: Check Quarantine Requirements and Decide Whether to Bring Your Pet
Check the official websites of the animal quarantine authorities in your destination country and your country’s embassy in Japan to confirm whether antibody testing or an import permit is required. Also, discuss with your family whether you’ll be bringing your pet along.
Microchip Verification and Implantation
If your pet does not have a microchip, have one implanted at a veterinary clinic that complies with international standards (ISO 11784 and 11785). If your pet already has a microchip, verify the number and make a note of it so you can transcribe it correctly onto various certificates.
rabies vaccination
We will administer the rabies vaccination after the microchip is implanted. Since the number of doses required and the intervals between doses prior to departure vary by country, we will confirm these details in advance and plan the schedule accordingly.
Antibody Titer Test (if required by the destination country)
After microchipping and vaccination, we will draw blood and send the sample to a designated testing facility. Since it takes some time to receive the results, it is essential to plan your schedule with plenty of time to spare.
Checking Additional Requirements for Your Destination and Consulting with Your Company
Depending on the country, there may be additional requirements, such as obtaining an import permit in advance or administering combination vaccines and parasite treatments. You should also make arrangements with the airline for transporting your pet during this time. In addition, be sure to check with your company’s HR or general affairs department to confirm whether pet-related expenses are covered by the relocation support package and whether company housing allows pets.
Health Checkups and Obtaining an English-Language Health Certificate
After consulting with a veterinarian to confirm that your pet is healthy enough to travel, you will obtain an English-language health certificate.
Application for Export Inspection at the Animal Quarantine Station (must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the desired inspection date)
Preferred date for the exam:Up to 14 days agoNext, use NACCS (Animal Quarantine-Related Services) to submit an application to the Animal Quarantine Station and schedule an inspection time (Source: Animal quarantine office "to export dogs and cats."(Verified in July 2026).
Export Inspection (within 10 days of departure) · Boarding
Within 10 days of departureThe animal will undergo an export inspection at the Animal Quarantine Station. After testing for rabies (and leptospirosis for dogs), an export quarantine certificate will be issued, allowing the animal to travel. Be sure to bring the original copies of all documents (Source: Animal Quarantine Station, verified in July 2026). Be careful not to confuse the two-step process: “Applications must be submitted at least 14 days in advance” and “Tests must be conducted within 10 days of departure.”
Why don't we go over your schedule leading up to your assignment together?
Please let us know your destination, planned departure date, and your pet's situation.
I’ll explain the preparation time required and the first steps you should take.
Checklist of Required Documents
Traveling abroad with a pet requires a lot of paperwork. Even a single omission could prevent your pet from leaving or entering the country, so be sure to use the checklist below to ensure you haven’t missed anything.
Key Points on Entry Requirements for Major Destinations [2026 Edition]
We’ve compiled key points to keep in mind regarding popular countries and regions for Japanese expatriates and those relocating abroad. Since regulations in each country are subject to change, be sure to check the latest information before traveling.
America
- Effective August 2024, dogs entering the United States must carry a receipt confirming the online submission of the CDC Dog Import Form (Source: CDC, verified in July 2026).
- In addition, the dog must be healthy and at least 6 months old. The requirements regarding microchipping and rabies vaccination vary depending on the dog’s travel history (specifically, whether the country of origin is classified as a “high-risk country for rabies”).
- Japan is not currently included on the CDC’s list of “high-risk countries for rabies.” However, the requirements vary depending on each dog’s travel history and are subject to change, so be sure toCDC official websitePlease check which requirements apply to your specific situation.
EU (Europe)
- New pet travel regulations have been in effect since April 22, 2026 (already in force). After microchipping, animals must receive a rabies vaccination and obtain an Animal Health Certificate (Source: European Commission, verified in July 2026).
- For the first rabies vaccination, a 21-day waiting period is required after the vaccination is completed. If booster shots are administered continuously within the validity period, this waiting period is not required.
- Whether a rabies antibody titer test is required for travel from Japan depends on the regulations of the country of departure. The latest requirements areEuropean Commission Official WebsitePlease be sure to check this
United Kingdom
- Under the EU's pet travel regulations, the United Kingdom will be treated as a "third country" after Brexit, and different procedures will apply compared to those for EU member states.
- You must obtain an Animal Health Certificate. Please check the official GOV.UK website for details, such as when to obtain it.
- snoop (i.e. a detective, a spy, etc.)is between 24 hours and 5 days prior to entryTreatment for Tapeworm (Echinococcus) Infectionmust be obtained (applies only to dogs; Source: GOV.UK, verified in July 2026)
Singapore
- You must obtain an import permit from the AVS (Agricultural, Food, and Veterinary Service). Japan falls under “Schedule II” in the AVS classification (Source: AVS/NParks(Confirmed in July 2026)
- Quarantine is not required if the pet arrives within five days of the owner’s entry into Singapore and continues to live at the same address as the owner for at least six months after importation. If either of these conditions is not met, a minimum of 10 days of home quarantine is required (separate fees apply; please check the AVS official website for amounts).
- Since there are restrictions on dog breeds and the number of dogs allowed, please check the AVS official website in advance to see if your dog qualifies.
tai (species of reddish-brown Pacific sea bream, Pagrus major)
- You must obtain an Import Permit from the Thai Department of Agriculture and Cooperatives (DLD) in advance.
- In addition to the rabies vaccine, you may be required to provide proof of other vaccinations, such as a combination vaccine. For details,Office of the Agricultural Attaché, Royal Thai Embassy in TokyoPlease check here
- While it is generally considered that entry will be relatively smooth as long as your documents and vaccination requirements are in order, please be careful not to overlook the requirements for mixed vaccination regimens.
Australia
- It is one of the countries with particularly detailed quarantine requirements. It is mandatory to obtain an import permit in advance, and even standard processing takes a certain amount of time (Source: DAFF(Confirmed in July 2026)
- Japan is classified as a “Group 2” country, recognized as rabies-free, and requires a minimum 10-day quarantine period upon arrival (Source: DAFF, verified in July 2026).
- Entry may be restricted for certain dog breeds. Please check the DAFF official website for the latest information when applying for an import permit.
*The information above summarizes general trends. Since requirements may change from country to country, be sure to check the latest information on the official websites of the animal quarantine authorities and the embassy of your destination country before traveling (verified in July 2026).
How are the costs determined?
The cost of traveling abroad with a pet varies significantly depending on the destination, the pet’s size, and the method of transport. We’ve compiled a list of the main cost items and the factors that affect the total amount.
| Cost Categories | Main Factors Affecting the Amount |
|---|---|
| Microchipping | Treatment Fees by Veterinary Clinic |
| Rabies Vaccination and Antibody Titer Testing (if required by the destination country) | Veterinary Clinics and Designated Testing Facilities; Number of Vaccinations |
| Health Certificates in English and Various Tests | Veterinary Clinics, Test Items |
| Application for an Import Permit for the Destination Country (if applicable) | Systems and Application Procedures for Your Destination Country |
| Airline Pet Transportation Fees | Airline, Mode of Transportation, Route, and Weight of Pet and Crate |
| Cost of Purchasing a Crate (Cage) | Size and Material |
| Scope of the Company's Relocation Support | Company-Specific Policies (Whether They Cover Pet-Related Expenses) |
The actual cost varies significantly depending on the destination, the pet’s size, the method of transport, and the veterinary clinic or airline you use. The time and effort required also differ depending on whether you arrange the travel yourself or hire a professional. If you would like a specific estimate, please contact us with your destination and planned departure date.
Common mistakes and countermeasures
When taking pets with you on overseas assignments, there are many cases of trouble due to lack of preparation and information. The following are examples of actual common mistakes.
What are the benefits of consulting with PetAirJPN?
Preparing to transport pets for an overseas assignment involves many details to confirm, compounded by the scheduling adjustments unique to such assignments. Guided by its vision of “eliminating borders for pets,” PetAirJPN is here to help ease the burden of these preparations.
Examples of How We Can Help
- Guidance on a preparation schedule calculated backward from your departure date, based on the quarantine and entry requirements of your destination
- Organizing the required documents and verifying the accuracy of information such as microchip numbers
- If an application to a government agency is required, we will coordinate with a certified administrative scrivener (who will handle the application process).
- Coordinating shipping arrangements with airlines; consulting on crate selection
- Consultations tailored to individual circumstances, such as large dogs, brachycephalic breeds, and multi-dog households
If you’re feeling anxious because you have little time before your assignment or don’t know where to start, consulting with us early on can help you avoid overlooking any important preparations. Please let us know your destination and planned departure date.
Summary: Since this is an overseas assignment, it’s especially important to hold a family meeting and gather information early on.
Deciding whether to bring your pet along on an overseas assignment is a major decision for any family. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on each family’s circumstances—if you decide to bring your pet, keeping the following three points in mind will make the preparation process much easier.
If you'd like to review all aspects of your travel preparations,How to Take Your Pet from Japan to Another Country | A Complete Guide to Procedures and PreparationsIf you want to prepare for a future return to your home country,Complete Guide to Returning to Japan with Your PetPlease see this as well.
If you're wondering, "Where should I start?" or "What will happen with my pet?", please feel free to contact us. We'll provide free guidance on everything from checking the requirements of your destination country to planning your preparations in line with your relocation schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🐾 Traveling abroad with your pet, start with a free consultation
Please let us know your destination, desired departure date, and pet situation.
A summary of the required procedures and deadlines will be provided.
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Written by: PetAirJPN Editorial Department (International Pet Transportation Operations Team)
*The information in this article is current as of August 2026. Quarantine regulations in various countries and airline policies are subject to change without notice. This article is intended to provide general information only; to determine whether travel is permitted and to confirm specific requirements, please be sure to check the latest official information from the relevant national authorities, animal quarantine offices, and your veterinarian.
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