How to bring your pet from Japan to Thailand|Explanation of procedures, costs, and schedule (based on official Thai government documents)

Pet Situation by Country

Many of you may be thinking, "I've decided to go to Thailand, but I want to bring my dog or cat with me," or "The procedures are complicated, and I don't know where to start.

Traveling abroad with pets is certainly a complicated process, but with the right information and proper preparation, you can start a new life in Thailand with your beloved family. In this article,Based on official Thai government dataWe will provide you with the latest and most accurate information on pet travel from Japan to Thailand.

Table of Contents

📅 Latest as of May 24, 2024

For entry from Suvarnabhumi Airport, according to official Thai government data,Choice of two types of applications: on-site application or advance applicationIt is now possible to do so. However, prior application is required to enter the country from other than Suvarnabhumi Airport.

🔄 Overall flow of pet travel procedures

Procedures

advance preparation

Microchipping
document verification
→directional marker or indicator

immunization

365-21 days before
→directional marker or indicator

Acquisition of English Certificate

Prepared by a veterinarian
→directional marker or indicator

advance application

Email to Thai Government
Review in 7 days
→directional marker or indicator

Departure from Japan

Inspection at animal quarantine station
Certificate Acquisition
→directional marker or indicator

Entering Thailand

Processing at the airport
completion

✈️ Travel options

There are three main options for pet travel to Thailand. Each has its own advantages and caveats, so it is important to choose the method best suited to your situation.

method advance application Target Airports Advantages important point
Hand-carry (local application) unnecessary Suvarnabhumi Airport only Easy with no advance procedures required Risk in case of incomplete documentation
Hand-carry (advance application) necessary All airports Prior Confirmation for Peace of Mind. 7-day review period
freight traffic necessary All airports No need to be accompanied by owner The procedure is the most complicated

The following article provides more information on how to transport your pet.

💉 Required vaccinations and health requirements

Vaccinations required for entry into Thailand vary depending on the type of animal.365 to 21 days prior to entry into the countryThe following vaccinations must be completed

🐕 Dogs

rabies
Required vaccinations.
distemper
Prevention of dog-specific infections
parvovirus
Prevention of serious gastrointestinal diseases
canine hepatitis infectious disease
Prevention of liver diseases
leptospirosis
Prevention of Zoonosis

🐱 For cats

rabies
Required vaccinations.
Feline parvovirus (FPV)
Prevention of cat-specific infections

🐰 For rabbits

🌟 Special measures for rabbits

Japan is a rabies-free countryTherefore, rabbits are exempt from rabies vaccination. However, it is necessary to have "Japan is a rabies-free country" clearly stated on the export quarantine certificate at the time of departure.

Rabies is discussed in more detail in the following article.

The following article explains vaccinations in more detail.

Are you having trouble managing your immunization schedule?

At PetAirJPN, our expert pet travel staff will propose the best schedule for your pet's travel. We provide detailed support, from the timing of vaccinations to the preparation of necessary documents.

Consultation on the official LINE
Consultation via WhatsApp

📋 Detailed schedule of procedures

🎯 Why is advance application recommended?

Local application is possible, but with the risk of incomplete documentation,Secure permission to travel by pre-application.We recommend that you do so. The review period is no longer than 7 days.

📅 Recommended: hand carry (pre-application)

Preparation Schedule

6 months ago
Start of initial preparation

Microchipping, contacting the animal quarantine office, and confirming necessary documents

365-21 days before
Immunization Practice

Obtain required vaccinations, English vaccination certificates, and airline reservations

10 days ago
Pre-application implementation

Send application documents to the Thai government and obtain Notification for Importation

Day of departure
Inspection and Departure

Export inspection in Japan and entry procedures in Thailand completed

📝 Documents required for advance application

Checklist of Required Documents

Certificate of Vaccination in English
English certificate from a veterinarian is required.
Certificate of microchip installation in English
ISO standard microchip required.
R1/1 Application Form (Application for Import Permit)
Download from Thai Embassy website
Copy of applicant's passport
Photocopy of photo page
Pet Pictures
A color photograph that clearly shows the face
Japanese export quarantine certificate
Obtained at the animal quarantine station on the day of departure

📋 R1/1 Application Form (Application for Import Permit) Example

Example of Entry

The following is a general example of how to fill out the form. Please download and use the latest form for actual application.

Applicant's name in English:.
Example: TANAKA TAROApplicant's address in Japan:.
Example: 1-2-3 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, JapanApplicant's address in Thailand:.
Example: 123 Sukhumvit Road, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, ThailandAnimal species:.
Examples: Dog / Cat / Rabbit

Varieties
Example: Golden Retriever / Persian Cat

Gender
Example: Male / Female

Age: 2 years old
Example: 3 years old

Hair color: White
Example: Golden / Black / White

Microchip number
Example: 392143002345678

Estimated date of entry: (date and time of arrival)
Example: 15 August 2025, Flight TG677

Departure Airports:.
Example: Narita International Airport (NRT)

Where to download the application form:
https://www.opsmoac.go.th/tokyo-news-files-421491791810

Need help with paperwork?

PetAirJPN can assist you throughout the entire process, from the preparation of the documents to the application process on your behalf.

Consultation on the official LINE
Consultation via WhatsApp

🏢 Procedures and fees upon entry into Thailand

🛬 Procedure locations at Suvarnabhumi Airport

Arrival gate

Get off the plane.
→directional marker or indicator

large baggage

Receive pet
→directional marker or indicator

quarantine station for animals

Near turntable No. 8
24-hour support
→directional marker or indicator

customs house

final procedure
→directional marker or indicator

exit

Procedure Completed

✅ Important Information

Animal quarantine offices are available 24 hours a day, so there is no need to worry about arrival times!

📋 Procedures at Suvarnabhumi Airport

  1. Receiving Pets
    Upon arrival, pick up your pet at the oversized luggage counter.
  2. Transfer to Animal Quarantine Office
    Head to the Animal Quarantine Office (24-hour service) near baggage claim turnstile #8
  3. Document Submission/Inspection
    Submit the required documents and have your pet's health examined
  4. Fee payment and permit acquisition
    If there are no problems, importation will be permitted.

List of costs

500B
Thailand Animal Quarantine Fee
Official Thai Government Fees
Approx. 50,000 yen
Airline Pet Transportation Fee
Approximate (varies by airline)
Approx. 30,000 yen
Immunizations/Certificates
Approximate (varies by veterinary hospital)
Approx. 10,000 yen
Japan Quarantine Fee
Approximate (animal quarantine fees)

⚠️ Important Correction

According to official Thai government data, animal quarantine fees are500 Baht per caseThe documents are In addition, documents required upon arrival in Thailand are an Export Quarantine Certificate and Notification for Importation Animal(s) (in case of advance application).

🚫 Pets and restrictions that cannot enter the country

🚨 List of banned breeds

These breeds are prohibited by law from entering the country

pit bull terrier
Pit Bull Terrier
Staffordshire terrier
Staffordshire Terrier
Rottweiler
Rottweiler
Doberman
Doberman
Brazilian Guard Dog
Brazilian Guard Dog

⚠️ Other entry restrictions

  • Dogs and cats under 4 months old
  • Airline restrictions on short-breed dogs (e.g., bulldogs, French bulldogs, etc.)
  • Pregnant pets

📦 Cargo Transportation

Cargo shipments are handled on a pre-application basis only. In addition to the hand-carry documentation, the following additional information is required

  • Address in Japan and in Thailand
  • Individual animal information (species, sex, age, color, microchip number, etc.)
  • Pet Pictures
  • Date and time of arrival and flight number
  • Departing Airport Name

Leave cargo transportation to us!

Cargo transportation is the most complicated procedure, but PetAirJPN's professional staff provides full support. PetAirJPN provides safe and reliable transportation.

Consultation on the official LINE
Consultation via WhatsApp

📞 Important Contacts

🇹🇭 Suvarnabhumi Airport Animal Quarantine Station
Email: (English) qsap_bkk_import@dld.go.th
Phone +66-2134-0731
Time: 1 hour M-F 8:30-16:30 (English or Thai)
Location: Tokyo, Japan Near baggage claim turnstile #8 (24 hours)
🇹🇭 Other airports
Don Mueang Airport Animal Quarantine Station
Email: (English) qsdm_bkk@dld.go.th
Chiang Mai Animal Quarantine Station
Email: (English) qscm_cmi@dld.go.th
🇯🇵 Animal quarantine offices in Japan
Narita Branch Office:8:30-16:30 daily
Haneda Airport Branch Office:8:30-16:30 daily
Kansai Airport Branch Office:8:30-16:30 daily

💡 Expert Advice

✅ Key to Success

  • Timing of microchip installation:Must be worn before vaccination
  • Vaccination period:Strictly 365 to 21 days prior to entry into the country.
  • Preparation of English documents:All certificates must be in English.
  • Utilization of pre-applications:On-site application is possible, but advance application ensures certainty.
  • Check for updates:Regulations are subject to change, so check even just before you travel.
  • Backup documents:Prepare multiple copies of important documents

⚠️ Mistakes you definitely want to avoid

  • Vaccinations prior to microchipping:Inoculation prior to installation will be invalid.
  • Miscalculation of vaccination period:Void outside the period of 365 to 21 days prior to entry.
  • Inadequate English documentation:Japanese documents are not available
  • Lack of confirmation of prohibited dog breeds:Must be confirmed in advance

🇯🇵 It is also important to be prepared when returning to Japan

🔄 Notes on returning home

Because Thailand is classified as a "non-designated area" in Japan,Very complicated procedures when returning to Japanis required. In principle, dogs and cats under 10 months old cannot be imported, as they require microchipping, vaccinations, blood antibody titer testing, and issuance of a certificate. If you plan to return to your country, you need to make preparations at least 7 months prior to your return.

📋 Main procedures required when returning home

  1. Microchipped (ISO standard)
  2. Rabies vaccinations (2 or more)
  3. Rabies antibody titer test (designated testing facility)
  4. Waiting period (at least 180 days after antibody titer test)
  5. Prior notification of import (up to 40 days prior to arrival in Japan)
  6. Pre-departure clinical examination

💡 Advice on planning your return home

Preparing from the time of your assignment to Thailand with a view to the procedures to be taken when you return to your home country will facilitate your future return. In particularAntibody titer testing and 180-day waiting periodis essential for systematic preparation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I enter the country from outside Suvarnabhumi Airport?

A: A Entry from other than Suvarnabhumi Airport (Don Mueang Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, etc.) requires advance application. Local application is not an option.

Q: How long does it take to review a pre-application?

A: A According to official Thai government data, the standard reply time is within 7 days. It is recommended to apply 10 days in advance to allow enough time.

Q: Is the rabies vaccine really unnecessary for rabbits?

A: A Yes, Japan is exempt because it is a rabies-free country. However, it is necessary to have the export quarantine certificate clearly state that "Japan is a rabies-free country.

Q: Is there an age limit for pets?

A: A Dogs and cats under 4 months of age are not allowed to enter the country. In addition, Thai Airways International only accepts pets over 4 months of age.

If you have any questions or concerns

PetAirJPN's experienced staff is ready to answer all your questions. Please feel free to contact us with even the most trivial questions.

Ask a question on the official line
Ask a question via WhatsApp

🤝 PetAirJPN support details

🛠️ What we can do

document processing agent
Support in preparing R1/1 applications and certificates in English
Schedule Management
Suggesting the best timing from vaccination to travel.
acting as agent for an application
Advance application procedures to the Thai government on behalf of the client
Local Support
Assistance with procedures at Suvarnabhumi Airport
preparations for returning to one's country
Support for preparation for future return to Japan
24-hour support
Emergency consultations are also available

📝 Summary

Pet travel from Japan to Thailand can be ensured by following the official guidelines of the Thai government and following the procedures precisely. The important points are as follows

🎯 Important points in this article

  • Local application is possible at Suvarnabhumi Airport (however, advance application is recommended).
  • Vaccinations are administered 365 to 21 days prior to entry into the country.
  • Microchip must be installed prior to vaccination
  • The review period for pre-applications is no longer than 7 days.
  • Animal quarantine fee is 500 Baht/each case
  • No entry for dogs under 4 months of age and certain breeds.
  • When returning to Japan, preparation must be made 7 months in advance.
  • All certificates must be prepared in English.

Most important,Timing of microchipping and vaccinationIt is. Vaccinations must be administered after the microchip is installed, as vaccinations prior to installation will be invalid.

Although it is now possible to apply locally, considering the risk of incomplete documentation, we strongly recommend that you apply in advance to ensure that you obtain permission before traveling to Japan.

📅 Updates

Information as of May 24, 2024

This article is based on official documents from the Office of the Agricultural Officer of the Government of Thailand (as of May 24, 2024). Regulations are subject to change, so please be sure to check for the latest information before traveling to Thailand.

🌟 Want to ensure a new life with your beloved family?

PetAirJPN, as a professional pet travel team, takes full responsibility for all procedures from document preparation to local support. Start a new chapter with your precious family member with us.

Thank you 🙏 for reading to the end!

We hope this article will be the first step toward a wonderful Thai life for you and your pet. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact PetAirJPN at any time. We sincerely support your new life in Thailand.

Source/Reference

Disclaimer:
This article is based on official Thai government documents and information from various official agencies as of May 24, 2024. Please be sure to check the latest official information before actually traveling to Thailand, as regulations and procedures related to pet travel may change frequently. This site assumes no responsibility for any damages resulting from actions taken based on the contents of this article.

 

Risako Seto|PetAirJPN Business Manager, Pet International Transportation Specialist

She has loved animals since she was a child, and her desire to "protect the lives of animals" led her to become a pet nurse. Currently, she is using her experience as an international pet transportation specialist and business manager of PetAirJPN to support many pets and their families to relocate or travel abroad.
We help owners fulfill their wish to "be with their pets, their precious family members, no matter where they are in the world. We strive to provide a transportation plan that is as stress-free as possible, according to the personality and physical condition of each individual pet. We will support you wholeheartedly so that both you and your pet can start a new life with peace of mind.

[Qualifications]
pet nurse
Animal Health Technician (AHT)
Veterinary Technician (VT)

Related Articles

Comment

There are no comment yet.

Please note that submissions that do not contain Japanese will be ignored. (Anti-spam)

en_USEnglish
Quote.
Request.Request a Quote
On line.
Estimates/QuestionsEstimates and questions on line