Pets (Dogs) → Japan

180-day quarantine unless pre-qualified

Details

Japan requires a 180-day quarantine for dogs that have not completed the pre-arrival process. To avoid quarantine: microchip, two rabies vaccinations 30+ days apart, blood test at approved lab, 180-day waiting period, health certificate, and advance notification to Animal Quarantine Service 40+ days before arrival. Enforcement in Japan carries fines from JPY 100,000 to JPY 5,000,000 under Customs Law (Kanzeihō) Art. 110, Art. 111 (typical personal cases are handled as civil infringements).

Documentation required

• Microchip
• Two rabies vaccinations
• FAVN blood test
• Advance notification form
• Health certificate
• Export certificate

Legal reference

Rabies Prevention Law

Leaving with this item

Taking a dog out of Japan requires an export health certificate, microchip, and rabies vaccination — with destination rules driving the timeline.

Practical advice

The entire process takes 7-8 months minimum. Dogs from rabies-free designated regions (UK, Australia, NZ, etc.) have a shorter process.

Customs authority

Japan Customs (Ministry of Finance) · https://www.customs.mof.go.jp