Official Import Rules
Japan has some of the world's strictest pet import regulations. ALL cats require: ISO microchip (implanted BEFORE first rabies vaccination), two rabies vaccinations at least 30 days apart, FAVN rabies antibody titer test (≥0.
5 IU/ml) at an approved laboratory, 180-day waiting period from the date the lab receives the blood sample, and advance notification to the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) at least 40 days before arrival. Cats from 'designated regions' (Iceland, Australia, NZ, Fiji, Hawaii, Guam) have simplified requirements.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip
ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip required before rabies vaccination.
Rabies vaccination
Administered at least 30 days before blood draw.
FAVN Titer Test
Blood drawn at least 30 days post-vaccination. Lab results take 2-3 weeks.
Waiting period
Minimum 180 days from satisfactory titer test result.
Health certificate
Issued within 10 days of travel by an accredited vet.
Government endorsement
USDA/official government endorsement required.
Import permit
Apply well in advance.
Travel
Arrive at designated port of entry only.
Preparation Checklist
6+ months before
3–6 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
If ALL requirements are met: less than 12 hours inspection at AQS. If any requirement is missing or incomplete: mandatory detention quarantine of UP TO 180 DAYS at the AQS facility at the owner's expense. There are no exceptions or shortcuts.
City & Housing Tips
Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka are relatively cat-friendly cities, though finding pet-friendly housing in Japan can be challenging. Many landlords prohibit pets — look for 'ペット可' (petto-ka / pets allowed) listings on sites like Suumo, Homes.co.jp, or use pet-specific real estate agencies. Pet deposits are typically 1–2 months' rent. Japan has a deep cultural affinity for cats — cat cafés, cat islands (Tashirojima, Aoshima), and excellent veterinary care are available.
Vets & Common Parasites
Japan has excellent veterinary care, though English-speaking vets are concentrated in Tokyo and other major cities. The Japan Veterinary Medical Association maintains a practice directory. Emergency clinics operate in major cities but are less common than in the US/UK. Common parasites: fleas, ticks, and heartworm (summer months). Year-round flea prevention is recommended, especially in warmer regions.
Find Vets in JapanExit Rules — Leaving Japan
Leaving Japan requires an export inspection by AQS. Book an appointment at your departure airport's AQS office. You need the import quarantine certificate (issued on arrival) and may need additional destination-country documents. Export inspections are conducted weekdays only, 8:30am–5pm. Schedule at least 7 days in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your cat will be detained at the AQS quarantine facility for the remaining days. You pay all costs (facility fees, caretaker, food). This can be extremely expensive and stressful.
Some airlines allow cabin pets on flights to Japan (e.g., Japan Airlines, ANA for domestic). However, the strict documentation requirements are the same regardless of how your cat travels.
Minimum 7 months from start to finish: microchip → 1st vaccine → 2nd vaccine (30 days later) → blood test → 180-day wait → travel.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Japan. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
Given Japan's complex import process, many relocators recommend hiring a licensed pet transport agent.
Have you moved to Japan with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.