Guide to Transporting Pets from Japan to Canada｜Compliance with new regulations in 2024

💡 Conclusion: Shipping pets from Japan to Canada is relatively smooth

Because Japan is recognized as a rabies-free country, conditions for entry into Canada are greatly relaxed.

1. Dogs from rabies-free countries: Microchip + rabies vaccine certificate (in English) is required. CFIA import permit for personal pets is usually not required.
2. cat: A rabies vaccination certificate is acceptable (import permit is not required).
3. Accuracy of documents is vital.: Risk of immigration denial if there is a mistake in even one place.

⚠️ Important changes

• Import permit issued by CFIA required to import dogs into Canada.(After September 26, 2024)
• Dogs from rabies-free countries (including Japan) are exempt from rabies antibody titer testing.
• No import permit is required for cats as before.

🇨🇦 Requirements on the Canadian side (dogs)

• microchipISO 11784/11785 standard
• rabies vaccineVaccination: at least 12 weeks old, completed at least 28 days prior to travel
• CFIA Import Permit: Required for dogs used for commercial purposes, breeding, exhibition, etc. Usually not required for personal pet dogs (check the official CFIA website for the latest requirements) (My CFIA)
• certificate of rabies-free countryExport quarantine certificate issued by the Japanese animal quarantine station can be substituted.

🇨🇦 Requirements on the Canadian side (cat.)

• Certificate of rabies vaccinationVaccination: at least 3 months old and at least 28 days prior to travel
• No import permit required
• Microchipping is recommended but not mandatory.

1. 3 months prior to the date of the visit】Microchip installation: ISO-standard microchips are installed.
2. Up to 28 days prior to travel] Rabies vaccinationVaccination: at least 12 weeks of age. Keep the vaccination certificate.
3. Before traveling] Apply for a CFIA Import Permit ← Most importantApply online through the My CFIA portal. Apply early as it may take several weeks to process.
4. Up to 7 days prior to departure] Application for export inspectionSubmit an "Application for Export Inspection" to the animal quarantine office in Japan.
5. Before Departure] Export QuarantineThe animal is inspected at the Animal Quarantine Station and receives an "Export Quarantine Certificate".
6. Check-in on the day of departureSubmit a complete set of documents at the airline counter.
7. Arrival in Canada] Declaration at CBSA (Customs)Declare the entry of your pet. Present your documents.

❌ No CFIA import permit

After September 2024, an import permit issued by the CFIA is required for the importation of dogs into Canada.Without it, you cannot enter Canada.Since it takes time to process, early application is required.

❌ Documentation errors

A mistake in transcribing the microchip number, a misstatement of the vaccination date, or a misspelling of the owner's name. Such a simple mistake can lead to a denial of entry.Never fail to double check all documents.

❌ Forget about extreme cold in winter

It is not uncommon for Canadian winters to fall below -20°C (-4°F). The cargo hold is air-conditioned, but while on the ground, the temperature is affected by outside temperatures.Avoid transportation during extremely cold weather or take all possible measures to protect against cold.

🚨 The procedure for returning home is more rigorous.

Canada is a rabies outbreak country. Therefore, if you wish to bring your pet back to Japan from Canada, all of the following conditions must be met.

• Microchipping
• At least 2 doses of rabies vaccine
• Rabies antibody titer test (0.5 IU/ml or higher at designated laboratory)
• 180-day waiting period from the date of blood collection for antibody testing
• Pre-export inspection (by Canadian government veterinarian)
• Advance notification to the Japanese animal quarantine office (up to 40 days prior to arrival)

There are a great many cases of people trying to return to their home countries unaware of the 180-day waiting period and getting stranded at the airport.At the time you travel to Canada, you should also begin preparing to return home.

Q1: If I bring my dog from Japan to Canada, do I need a rabies antibody test?

No. Japan is exempted from rabies antibody titer testing upon entry into Canada. Japan is exempted from rabies antibody titer testing upon entry into Canada because Japan is recognized as a rabies-free country. However, microchipping and rabies vaccination are required.

Q2: How long does it take to apply for a CFIA import permit?

Usually it takes a few weeks, but it may take longer depending on the congestion. We recommend that you begin the application process at least two months prior to your departure.

Q3: Do cats also need a CFIA import permit?

No, a CFIA import permit is not required for cats. A CFIA import permit is not required for cats. A rabies vaccination certificate is required to enter the country.

Q4: Is there a quarantine upon arrival in Canada?

If all documents are in order, you can usually enter the country without quarantine. However, additional inspection may be required at the discretion of CBSA.

Q5: What is the procedure for returning to Japan from Canada?

Canada is a rabies outbreak country, so procedures are more stringent upon return. A microchip, at least two rabies vaccines, an antibody titer test, and a 180-day waiting period are required. Please start preparing for your return home at the time of your trip to Canada.

Q6: Can I bring my short-breed dog to Canada?

It depends on the airline. Air Canada is the safest option for short-headed dogs, as they allow small dogs in the cabin; JAL and ANA have restrictions on short-headed dogs in checked baggage, so you will need to check in advance.

Pet transportation to Canada, start with a free consultation

PetAir provides support for the transportation of dogs and cats to Canada in accordance with the latest regulations.

Click here for a free consultation and estimate →.

Disclaimer

PetAir is a procedure preparation support service and does not guarantee obtaining import/export permits, flight confirmation, or the health of your pet. Veterinary procedures, vaccinations, airport delivery, and health care are the responsibility of the pet owner.

Reference Information and Sources

• CFIA (Importing or travelling with a personal pet):. https://inspection.canada.ca/en/importing-food-plants-animals/pets
• Animal Quarantine Service, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (To export dogs and cats):. https://www.maff.go.jp/aqs/animal/aq12-1.html
• Air Canada (travel with pets):. https://www.aircanada.com/jp/ja/aco/home/plan/special-assistance/travelling-with-pets.html
• Embassy of Japan in Canada:. https://www.ca.emb-japan.go.jp/itprtop_ja/index.html