Last Updated: August 7, 2026
Key Points to Keep in Mind First
- There are specific timing requirements for rabies antibody titer testing; if the timing is off, you’ll have to reschedule your travel plans.
- To keep a dog or cat in Singapore, you must obtain not only an import permit but also a Dog/Cat License.
- There are certain dog breeds that are prohibited from being imported or kept as pets. Since the list of affected breeds is subject to change, please check the official website each time.
- Since airline schedules and boarding requirements are subject to change, be sure to check each airline’s official website before making a reservation.
- Make sure all certificates and permits are in English, and check the expiration dates of each one.
1. Timeline for Preparing to Move to Singapore: Where to Start?
To bring a pet to Singapore, you must complete several procedures in sequence, from having your pet microchipped to obtaining an import permit. In particular, since there are specific time frames for when blood can be drawn for the rabies antibody test, it’s best to start preparing early—about six months in advance—to ensure a smooth process.
Microchip Implantation and Rabies Vaccination (First Dose)
- Microchips must comply with either ISO 11784 or ISO 11785 Annex A.
- After the microchip is implanted, your pet will receive its first rabies vaccination. Please ensure the vaccination is administered properly in accordance with the vaccine manufacturer’s recommendations.
Rabies Vaccination (Required Booster Shot)
- Please follow the vaccine manufacturer’s recommendations and have your pet receive any necessary booster shots. For details on the number of doses and the recommended intervals, please check the official NParks/AVS website or consult your veterinarian.
Blood Draw for Rabies Antibody Titer Testing
- Blood samples will be collected at least 28 days after the most recent rabies vaccination.
- The blood draw must take place at least 90 days before the date of export (departure) from Japan, and within 12 months of that date.
Application for a Breeding License and Import Permit
- Obtain a license (Dog/Cat License) to keep a pet in Singapore
- Next, apply online for an Import License through the NParks/AVS website.
Pre-Departure Health Checkups and Export Inspections
- Applications for export inspections must be submitted to the Animal Quarantine Station at least 14 days prior to the desired inspection date.
- The inspection itself must be conducted within 10 days of departure, after which an export quarantine certificate will be issued.
- To enter Singapore, you are also required to have your pet treated for parasites (such as fleas, ticks, and internal parasites) before departure. Please check the NParks/AVS official website for information on the timing of the treatment and the required certificate format.
Source:NParks/AVS Requirements for Importing Dogs and Cats(Verified in August 2026)
2. Rabies Vaccination and Antibody Titer Testing: Pay Attention to the Timing of Blood Draws
To enter Singapore, you must have received a valid rabies vaccination in accordance with the vaccine manufacturer’s recommendations and undergo an antibody titer test. Since there are strict requirements regarding the timing of the blood draw, any mistake here could significantly disrupt your travel schedule.
| Items | Details |
|---|---|
| rabies vaccination | After the microchip is implanted, your pet will receive the initial vaccinations and any necessary booster shots in accordance with the vaccine manufacturer’s recommendations. Please check the NParks/AVS official website or consult your veterinarian for details on the number of doses and the recommended intervals. |
| Required antibody titer | 0.5 IU/ml or higher |
| When Blood Draws Can Be Performed | At least 28 days after the most recent rabies vaccination (initial or booster) |
| Blood Draw Deadline | At least 90 days before, but no more than 12 months before, the date of export (departure) from Japan |
| Laboratory | You can have the inspection performed at a designated inspection agency in Japan; however, please check in advance with NParks/AVS or the shipping carrier you plan to use to confirm whether the results are valid for shipment to Singapore. |
Source:NParks/AVS Requirements for Importing Dogs and Cats(Verified in August 2026)
In Japan, under the NParks/AVS classification,Schedule IIYou fall under the category requiring vaccination and a serological (antibody titer) test. We recommend checking the AVS official website for the latest information on the specific requirements for each category before each trip.
3. Steps for Entering Singapore
Here, we’ll walk you through the procedures required for entry into Singapore, step by step—from microchipping to obtaining an import permit. If you have your pet microchipped and receive the first rabies vaccination early on, the subsequent antibody titer test and permit application will go more smoothly.
3-1. Microchip Implantation
| Items | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard | Compliant with either ISO 11784 or Annex A of ISO 11785 |
| Implantation timing | Put it on before the rabies vaccination (please check with your veterinarian for details). |
| Place of implementation | veterinary institution |
Source:NParks/AVS Requirements for Importing Dogs and Cats(Verified in August 2026)
3-2. Rabies Vaccination
After the microchip is implanted, your pet will receive a rabies vaccination. Please follow the vaccine manufacturer’s recommendations for the initial vaccination and any necessary booster shots. For details on the number of doses and the intervals between them, please check the official NParks/AVS website or consult your veterinarian.
Source:NParks/AVS Requirements for Importing Dogs and Cats(Verified in August 2026)
To ensure that your pet’s antibody levels remain effective until the day of arrival in Singapore, please consult with your veterinarian to determine the best timing for the booster shot.
3-3. Rabies Antibody Titer Test
The required antibody titers and the timing of blood draws are as explained in the previous chapter, “Rabies Vaccination and Antibody Titer Testing.” Be sure to have your certificate issued in English and to check its expiration date before departure.
3-4. Core Vaccines Other Than Rabies
In addition to rabies, vaccination against the core infectious diseases listed below is recommended. The extent to which you should administer additional vaccines beyond these will depend on your pet’s health condition, so please consult with your veterinarian to make a decision.
| Animals | Core Vaccines |
|---|---|
| Dogs | Combination vaccine for distemper, canine adenovirus infection, parvovirus infection, and other diseases |
| Cats | Combination vaccine for feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus infection, feline viral rhinotracheitis, and other diseases |
Obtaining your certificate in English will make the verification process smoother when traveling. Since the required vaccinations may change, please check the latest information atNParks/AVS Official WebsitePlease check here (verified in August 2026).
3-5. Obtaining a Dog/Cat License
To keep dogs or cats in Singapore, you must obtain a pet license before applying for an import permit. Please note that a license is required not only for dogs but also for cats. Please check the NParks/AVS official website for application procedures and required documents.
Reference:NParks/AVS Dog and Cat Ownership License Application
3-6. Obtaining an Import License
Once you have obtained your pet ownership license, apply for an import permit online via the NParks/AVS website. The permit has a specified validity period, so it is important to time your application to align with your travel schedule to ensure your pet arrives in Singapore within that period. A fee applies for the application. Please check the AVS official website for the latest information on the validity period and fee amounts. Applying after your flight reservation is confirmed will help prevent scheduling conflicts.
If you're unsure how to proceed with the process
Please let us know your destination and planned departure date. We’ll let you know how much time you’ll need to prepare and what the first steps are.
4. List of Required Documents: To Ensure You Have Everything You Need
You’ll need several documents to enter Singapore. Since you may be denied entry if your documents are incomplete, be sure to prepare them well in advance.
| Document name | publisher | Timing of Acquisition | point |
|---|---|---|---|
| rabies vaccination certificate | veterinary institution | Timing of Each Vaccination | A document in English that clearly states the date of vaccination, the type of vaccine, the lot number, and other details |
| Rabies antibody titer test certificate | Designated laboratory | After the blood draw, when the results are available | A document in English that clearly states the antibody titer, blood draw date, and individual identification number |
| health certificate | veterinary institution | Within the deadline specified on the AVS official website (just before departure) | English. For imports from Japan, the health certificate must be endorsed by a government veterinarian (Animal Quarantine Service). Check the AVS official website for the designated form. |
| Affidavit from the Pilot-in-Command/Airline Representative | Airline to Use | During check-in | For imports from Japan, a sworn statement signed by the pilot in command or an airline representative must be submitted. |
| Breeding License | NParks/AVS | Before Applying for an Import Permit | Required for both dogs and cats |
| import license | NParks/AVS | Before departure (at a time when you can arrive within the validity period) | Online application. Must arrive within the validity period. |
| Export Quarantine Certificate | Japan's Animal Quarantine Service | After undergoing a test within 10 days of departure | Applications must be submitted via NACCS at least 14 days prior to the desired inspection date. |
| Certificate of Parasite Extermination | veterinary institution | Before departure (check the timing on the official AVS website) | Treatment to eliminate external and internal parasites is required. Please check the NParks/AVS official website for details. |
| Scheduling a Checkup After Arrival | NParks/AVS | Before Arrival | Please check the NParks/AVS official website for booking methods and timing. |
| Documents specified by the airline | Airline to Use | Confirm at the time of booking | Cage regulations, transport consent forms, and other requirements vary by airline. |
The above lists the general required documents. Be sure to check the latest informationNParks/AVS Official WebsiteandOfficial Website of the Japan Animal Quarantine Serviceplease check there.
4-1. Common Mistakes When Preparing Documents
We’ve compiled a list of common pitfalls to watch out for when preparing your documents. Knowing these early on will help you avoid last-minute panic.
5. How Should You Choose an Airline? A Look at the Policies of the Three Major Carriers
The rules for transporting pets vary depending on the airline. Be sure to check the airline’s policies and carrier requirements before making a reservation.
| Airlines | Supported | Points to Check |
|---|---|---|
| JAL | Supports transport via checked baggage and cargo | Certain dog breeds, primarily brachycephalic breeds, are excluded. Advance reservations are required. |
| ANA | Supports transport via checked baggage and cargo | You must check the detailed regulations, such as cage size and weight limits. |
| Singapore Airlines | Supports transport via checked baggage and cargo | You must check the detailed regulations, such as cage size and weight limits. |
Source:JAL Pet Transportation Guide／ANA Pet Travel Guide／Singapore Airlines: Traveling with Pets(Verified in August 2026)
Eligible dog breeds, booking conditions, and pricing structures are subject to change. Be sure to check the official websites of each airline for the latest flight status and regulations. Since air transport schedules and acceptance criteria vary by season and route, we recommend contacting multiple airlines as soon as you have determined your planned departure date to compare their options.
6. What to Expect After Arriving in Singapore
In Singapore,Pet owners can no longer handle import customs clearance procedures themselves.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
Before your pet arrives, please use a pet agent authorized by the Singapore government (NParks/AVS)
You will need to make your own arrangements. Even if you plan to bring them with you as carry-on or excess baggage,
The same rules apply when shipping as cargo. There are no exceptions based on whether or not you have traveled abroad.
（NParks/AVS Official(Confirmed in August 2026)
3 Practical Points to Keep in Mind Before and After Arrival
- Appointments for medical examinations must be made at least 5 days before arrival:Examinations at CAPQ are by appointment only. If you arrive without an appointment, you will be charged an examination fee of S$133 per hour (even if the examination lasts less than an hour, it will be counted as one hour). Appointments are made by the authorized agent who arranged your visit.
- CAPQ is not open 24 hours a day:Monday and Tuesday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (lunch break daily from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.). If your pet arrives outside of business hours, it will be held in the ground handling contractor’s holding area until the next business day.
- Transportation to the quarantine facility is available only once a day on weekdays, from 10:00 to 10:30:Pets that arrive at CAPQ after this time will spend the night at CAPQ and be transported on the next business day.The date on which you can pick up your pet will vary depending on the flight's arrival time.
If you choose a flight based solely on the fare, this is where you'll end up upon arrival. Please check CAPQ's business hours when selecting your flight.
Under the current system, customs clearance in Singapore is handled by local AVS-authorized agents. Although PetAirJPN is not an AVS-authorized agent, we work in collaboration with local authorized agents to provide a one-stop service covering everything from export quarantine procedures in Japan to coordination and handling with local agents. Since the authorized status of agents is subject to change, please refer to the latest information available at the time of booking.NParks/AVS Officialplease check there.
Upon arrival in Singapore, pets will undergo document verification, health checks, and customs clearance at a quarantine facility. If they meet the requirements, they will be released to their owners. Depending on the time of arrival and how long the pet has been kept, quarantine at home or at a facility may be required.
Pre-Arrival Testing Appointment
- Before your pet arrives, you must schedule an inspection appointment with NParks/AVS. Please check the NParks/AVS official website for information on how and when to make an appointment.
Transport to a Quarantine Facility
- Upon arrival, they will be transported to the quarantine facility (CAPQ) administered by NParks/AVS.
Document Verification, Health Screening, and Customs Clearance Procedures
- The submitted documents will be reviewed, and a veterinarian will examine the animal to assess its health.
- In addition, customs clearance procedures (including those related to the Goods and Services Tax (GST)) are required. You must not handle these procedures yourself; instead, you must complete customs clearance through an AVS-certified pet agent. Please check the NParks/AVS official website or consult the certified agent or carrier you are using for specific procedures.
Delivery, or additional support depending on the case
- Provided that all documentation and health requirements are in order, and the owner meets the conditions regarding the timing of entry and the length of time the pet has been kept (living with the owner), the pet will be handed over immediately.
- If you do not meet these requirements, you may be required to self-isolate at home or at a designated facility. Please check the NParks/AVS official website for the applicable requirements and duration.
Procedure details and processing times vary by case. For the latest procedural requirements,NParks/AVS Official Websiteplease check there.
7. Living with Pets in Singapore: Housing and Legal Regulations
In Singapore, there are specific rules regarding life with a pet after you bring one home. Before traveling, be sure to check which dog breeds are prohibited from import or ownership, as well as the pet-ownership requirements for your specific residence.
7-1. Dog Breeds Prohibited from Import and Ownership
The following dog breeds are prohibited not only from being imported into Singapore but also from being kept within the country (including these breeds).
- Pit bull-type breeds (American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, etc.) and their crossbreeds
- Akita (breed of dog)
- tosa (Japanese dog breed)
- Boaboel
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Brazilian Fila and Its Crossbreeds
- Dogo Argentino and Its Crossbreeds
- Presa Canario
The eligible dog breeds are subject to change. For the most up-to-date list, please seeNParks/AVS Official WebsitePlease be sure to check this.
7-2. Pet Ownership Rules by Housing Type (HDB, Condominiums, Single-Family Homes)
In Singapore, the rules regarding which pets you can keep vary depending on your type of housing.
| Types of Housing | point |
|---|---|
| HDB (public housing) | There are restrictions on the breeds and number of dogs you can keep. Please check the HDB official website for the list of approved breeds. |
| condominium | Rules vary depending on the management regulations. Be sure to check with the homeowners' association before moving in. |
| single-family home | While they can be kept with relative freedom, consideration for neighbors is necessary. |
Pet ownership rules vary by property and homeowners' association and are subject to change (as of August 2026). For details,HDB Official WebsitePlease check with the respective homeowners' associations.
7-3. Cat Ownership and Changes to HDB Rules (Starting September 2024)
Starting in September 2024, keeping cats is officially permitted in HDB (public housing) as well. Each household may keep up to two cats. All cats, including those already owned, must be registered, microchipped, and licensed. For details, such as the registration deadline,NParks/AVS Official Websiteplease check there.
7-4. Considerations Regarding Climate and Stress
Singapore has a hot and humid climate. Since flights and changes in environment can be very stressful for pets, be sure to take steps to protect them from the heat and reduce their stress before your trip. It’s also a good idea to research local veterinary clinics in advance for peace of mind.
7-5. Preparing for Life After Relocation
Local veterinary clinics, pet insurance, pet food, and training environments may differ from those in Japan. Gathering information before your trip will help both you and your pet settle into your new life more smoothly. You may even find Japanese-run veterinary clinics or communities, so be sure to search based on information specific to your destination.
8. Related Organizations and Resources
If you have any questions about the details of the procedure, the best course of action is to contact the official office directly. The main contact information is as follows.
- Singapore Ministry of National Development, Animal and Veterinary Services (NParks/AVS):avs.nparks.gov.sg
- Animal Quarantine Stations in Japan:www.maff.go.jp/aqs
- PetAir JPN Contact Form:petair.jp/contact
9. Summary: Prepare Early for a Stress-Free Trip to Singapore
When relocating to Singapore with your pet, it is essential to proceed step by step—from microchipping to rabies vaccination, antibody titer testing, obtaining a pet ownership license, and securing an import permit. In particular, since there is a specific timeframe during which blood samples can be collected for the antibody titer test, you should begin your preparations with a schedule that allows for about six months of lead time.
When looking for a place to live, be sure to check the pet policies for each HDB flat and condominium, as well as any dog breeds that are prohibited from being imported or kept as pets. Since regulations are subject to change, be sure to check the latest information.NParks/AVS Official WebsiteandOfficial Website of the Japan Animal Quarantine Serviceplease check there.
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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. Be sure to check the latest official information before traveling.
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