From US Estimated time to complete: 8 months

From Hawaii or Guam Estimated time to complete: 40 days

Always double check with APHIS and Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture for the most up to date information.

You can also read MAFF’s Guide for Importing Cats and Dogs

This is a guide for non-military

From US (Not Hawaii or Guam)

8 months before departure

Find your local USDA Accredited Vet

Find your local USDA Accredited Veterinarian to issue the health certificate and get APHIS endorsement

Microchip

• Insert a ISO compliant microchip before rabies vaccines or on same day as first vaccine.
• ISO-compliant microchip numbers are usually 15 digits long and meet specific international standards (ISO 11784 and ISO 11785). You can check ISO-compliance with the microchip manufacturer.
• Microchip numbers starting with "900 202" are currently under investigation for their validity. Please note that for the time being, these microchips will not be accepted as a means of identification.(Apr.7, 2023)
• If the animal is fitted with a NOT ISO compliant (11784 and 11785) microchip, the importer must bring a microchip reader with the pet.

Check if your pet’s microchip is registered here

First rabies vaccination

• Dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies twice or more after the microchip is implanted.
• Pet must be at least 91 days old at the time of vaccination (the date of birth is counted as day 0).