Canada to Singapore requires more preparation than most destinations. Singapore classifies Canada as Category C, which means a titre test, import permit, and 30 days of government quarantine on arrival. There are no direct Canada to …
FAVN titre test at approved Canadian lab: approximately CAD 150-300
30-day government quarantine in Singapore: SGD 1,800-3,500 (CAD 1,700-3,300)
Airline cargo to Singapore (with connections): CAD 1,000-2,500 depending on route and size
Total typical range: CAD 3,500 to CAD 7,500
Critical points to read before you book
Canada is Category C for Singapore, which means 30 days in a government quarantine facility, not 10 days in the SRS as for Category B countries. This is a significant commitment for both pet and owner. Plan carefully.
Singapore has breed restrictions: Pit Bull types, Akita Inu, Boerboel, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and others are prohibited. Check the full NParks/AVS restricted breeds list before making any arrangements.
Singapore's housing rules are strict. HDB flats (approximately 80% of housing) have strict pet limits. Confirm your accommodation allows your pet before starting the process.
30 days quarantine is harder on some animals than others. Younger, healthier pets adapt more readily. Senior pets and very anxious animals may find the quarantine period particularly challenging.
Airlines
Carriers approved for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals on this route. We know which carriers to use and how to book.
AIR CANADA
Air Canada
Vancouver or Toronto to Singapore via connections (often via Hong Kong, Tokyo, or Seoul). Air Canada Cargo.
Cargo Only
CATHAY PACIFIC
Cathay Pacific
Vancouver/Toronto to Singapore via Hong Kong. Cathay Pacific Cargo. Well-established on this corridor.
Cargo Only
SINGAPORE
Singapore Airlines
No direct Canada to Singapore service. Via connections. Singapore Airlines Cargo.
Cargo Only
Category C: understanding the 30-day quarantine
Singapore divides origin countries into categories A, B, and C based on their disease risk profile. Canada is Category C, the most restrictive tier for standard companion animals. This means the quarantine is 30 days in a government-run facility, rather than the 10-day Special Residential Scheme available to Category B countries.
The government quarantine is managed by NParks/AVS. It is focused on biosecurity assessment and disease surveillance. Pets are housed in individual units, monitored by staff, and receive veterinary checks during the period. The facilities are professional, but it is a 30-day hold in an unfamiliar environment.
Some owners find the 30-day quarantine a major deterrent and instead explore housing their pet temporarily in a country with a lower category (such as the UK, which is Category A) before the final move to Singapore. This is a legitimate strategy but adds complexity and cost.
Singapore: a demanding but rewarding destination for pet owners
Singapore’s strict import regime reflects its status as a disease-free island with almost no margin for error. Despite the complexity of the entry process, Singapore is genuinely pet-friendly once you are inside. Good veterinary care, green parks and trails, and a culture of pet ownership make it a popular expat destination for families with animals.
The housing constraint is the more persistent concern for long-term residents. HDB public housing limits dogs by breed and number, and the approved list is managed by NParks. If your accommodation is a condo or private house, the rules are set by the management committee, which varies. Always confirm housing compatibility before finalising a move.
FAQ
Common questions about Canada to Singapore pet transport
Singapore’s AVS category system is based on each country’s disease risk profile and the presence of specific diseases of concern. Canada is Category C primarily because of the presence of rabies in Canadian wildlife and the associated risk assessment. Australia is Category B with a different risk profile. The categories can be updated, so check the current NParks/AVS category for Canada at nparks.gov.sg/avs before starting.
30 days at a Singapore government quarantine facility for Category C countries, including Canada. This is longer than the 10-day Special Residential Scheme quarantine available to Category B countries. The quarantine is mandatory and cannot be shortened for any reason.
Yes. An FAVN rabies titre test is required for Category C countries including Canada. The result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml. The blood draw must be done at an AVS-approved laboratory. The result is required as part of the import permit application.
There are no direct Canada to Singapore flights. Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong and Air Canada via various Asian hubs are the most common routes. Singapore Airlines does not currently serve Canada directly. Cathay Pacific Cargo is frequently used for this corridor by pet transport agents. Book cargo space early, as connections on this route can be complicated.