Singapore Changi

Singapore has one of the strictest animal import regimes in the world, categorizing source countries into four groups (A through D) with escalating requirements. All cats entering Singapore must have a pre-approved import licence issued by the National Parks Board Animal & Veterinary Service (NParks AVS) before arrival.

Depending on your country of origin, requirements may include ISO microchipping, rabies vaccination, FAVN titer test, mandatory quarantine of 30 days or more, and a comprehensive set of endorsed veterinary certificates. Singapore does not accept pets in the passenger cabin on any flight — all animals must arrive as cargo or checked baggage and be inspected at the Changi Airfreight Centre.

Apply for your NParks AVS import licence at least 2 months before travel via the CITES e-Licensing System on the NParks website. The licence is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

Cats from Category A countries (New Zealand, Australia, UK, Ireland, etc. ) have the simplest process, while cats from Category C and D countries face mandatory quarantine of 10–30 days at an AVS-approved facility.

Ensure your cat's ISO microchip number matches all documentation exactly — any discrepancy will result in quarantine or refusal of entry. Singapore's inspection hours are limited (typically 8am–6pm), so plan your cat's arrival flight accordingly.