Pet Transport Japan to USA 2026 | Complete Guide
Japan to USA is one of the more straightforward international pet routes for dog owners, largely because Japan is a CDC-classified rabies-free country, which simplifies the process compared to moving from Europe or Australia. That said, the USA introduced new CDC dog import rules in 2023 that all pet owners should verify before travel.
CDC dog import requirements
Since August 2024, all dogs entering the USA must be microchipped (ISO 15444 or 11784/11785). Dogs from Japan, a country on the CDC’s rabies-free list, are eligible for the simplified entry pathway. This means the mandatory pre-travel rabies vaccination requirement may not apply, subject to the specific circumstances of the dog.
However, if your dog was vaccinated against rabies in the USA or with a US-produced USDA-licensed vaccine, additional rules apply. Check the CDC’s current dog import requirements at cdc.gov/importation at the time you are planning your move, as the rules have been subject to ongoing revision.
All dogs entering the USA must arrive at a CDC-registered airport with a registered animal facility. These include major international airports such as Los Angeles (LAX), New York JFK, Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and several others.
Cats from Japan to the USA
There is no federal vaccination requirement for cats entering the USA. A health certificate from a Japanese licensed veterinarian, issued within 10 days of travel, is good practice and is required by most airlines. Check individual state requirements, as some states have their own vaccination rules for cats.
Health certificate for dogs
Even for simplified entry, airlines require a health certificate. The certificate is typically issued by a Japanese registered veterinarian within 10 days of the flight. Japanese veterinary authorities may issue an official endorsement, which is helpful if your airline or the airline cargo handler requests it.
Airlines for Japan-USA pet transport
JAL, ANA, United, Delta, and American Airlines all serve the transpacific route. JAL and ANA have specific domestic Japan pet policies that differ from their international cargo policies. On transpacific routes, pets generally travel as manifest cargo.
Direct routes operate from Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda (HND) to Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and other US cities. Non-stop routes minimise handling and are always preferable for pets.
Arriving in the USA from Japan
On arrival, customs and border protection will check your documentation. Dogs are typically inspected at the CDC-registered facility at the arrival airport. With the simplified Japan pathway, inspection is usually quick provided the microchip matches and all records are in order.
Official sources:
- CDC dog import rules: cdc.gov/importation
- USDA APHIS: aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel
- Japan Animal Quarantine Service: maff.go.jp/aqs