Prepared by Marcus Webb, Senior Pet Relocation Consultant
Step by step
The Japan to Philippines pet import process
Each step must be completed in a precise sequence. Start early. We manage every stage and deadline.
1
Confirm microchip is in place (ISO 11784/11785)
Responsible: Your veterinarian in Japan
If not already microchipped, implant before vaccinations.
2
Rabies vaccination (if not already current)
Responsible: Your veterinarian in Japan
Administered after microchip. Allow 30 days before titre test blood draw.
3
FAVN or ELISA titre test blood draw at an accredited laboratory
Responsible: Your veterinarian + accredited laboratory
At least 30 days after vaccination. Allow 2-4 weeks for laboratory results.
4
Book IATA-compliant cargo flight from Japan to Manila
Responsible: You (or your pet transport agent)
Once BAI permit is confirmed. Book 2-4 weeks in advance.
Which Philippines rules depend on a pet coming from Japan?
None of the Philippines rules we have verified names Japan on its own.
The rules that apply to every pet entering the Philippines, whatever the origin, are listed with their official sources in our Philippines guide.
What does Japan require before your pet leaves?
Export permit: No separate export permit: apply for export inspection through NACCS (or by email) at least 14 days before the desired inspection date, then book a slot. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan. Export dogs and cats from Japan, checked 1 October 2026
Export health certificate: Dogs and cats leaving Japan must undergo AQS export quarantine: the exporter applies to AQS in advance and the animal is inspected at the date and hour the AQS officer directs. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan. Import and export quarantine of dogs and cats, checked 1 October 2026
Export health certificate: Export inspection within 10 days before departure unless the destination sets otherwise; certificate usually issued in 30 to 60 minutes. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan. Export dogs and cats from Japan, checked 1 October 2026
Other conditions: Export inspection is free; the exporter pays for vaccinations, tests and vet checks the destination requires. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan. FAQ: Taking dogs and cats abroad from Japan, checked 1 October 2026
Other conditions: Japan itself does not require rabies vaccination for export (the destination may). Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan. FAQ: Taking dogs and cats abroad from Japan, checked 1 October 2026
Other conditions: Pets that may return to Japan should complete microchip, two vaccinations and the antibody test before leaving so re-entry quarantine stays within 12 hours. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan and returning. FAQ: Taking dogs and cats abroad from Japan, checked 1 October 2026
Other conditions: Counterfeit supporting certificates mean no export certificate and the animal cannot be exported. Applies to dogs and cats leaving Japan. Export dogs and cats from Japan, checked 1 October 2026
Costs
What this route typically costs
Airline cargo fees (varies by carrier, pet weight, and crate dimensions)
Veterinary fees: vaccination, titre test, health certificate
BAI import permit application fee
Pet transport agent fee (recommended)
Critical points to read before you book
The Philippines requires a titre test for ALL incoming pets, including those from Japan. Japan's rabies-free status does not waive the BAI titre test requirement.
BAI import permit must be in hand before travel. Apply at least 30 days before your planned departure.
Always confirm current BAI requirements with the Bureau of Animal Industry Philippines before travel.
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.
JAPAN AIRLINES
Japan Airlines
Cargo: JAL operates direct flights from Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Osaka Kansai (KIX) to Manila (MNL). Pet cargo via JAL Cargo. Staff experienced with BAI documentation on this route.
Cargo Only
ANA
ANA
Cargo: ANA operates Tokyo-Manila routes. Pet cargo available via ANA Cargo. Temperature-controlled hold.
Cargo Only
PHILIPPINE
Philippine Airlines
Cargo: PAL operates direct Tokyo-Manila flights. Pet cargo available through PAL Cargo. Staff familiar with Philippines-side BAI requirements.
Cargo Only
SINGAPORE
Singapore Airlines
Cargo: Singapore Airlines Cargo via Singapore (SIN). Short transit. Temperature-controlled hold.
Cargo Only
CATHAY PACIFIC
Cathay Pacific
Cargo: Cathay Pacific Cargo via Hong Kong (HKG) to Manila. Temperature-controlled hold. Brachycephalic restrictions apply.
Cargo Only
FAQ
Common questions about Japan to Philippines pet transport
Yes. The Philippines BAI requires a titre test for all incoming pets regardless of their country of origin. Even though Japan is effectively rabies-free, the BAI applies its titre test requirement universally. Blood must be drawn at least 30 days after the most recent rabies vaccination, and the result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
Japan Airlines (JAL) and Philippine Airlines (PAL) are the strongest options for direct pet cargo from Tokyo to Manila. Both operate the route regularly and their cargo agents are familiar with the documentation requirements on both sides. ANA is another option. Book cargo space at least 2-3 weeks in advance.
Airline guides
Japan Airlines
ANA
Philippine Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Cathay Pacific
Breed guides
Check breed-specific airline rules and country bans.
Requirements on this page were checked against the authorities below. Rules change, so confirm
current conditions with the relevant authority before you travel.