Bringing your pet to Singapore is absolutely possible, but the process can feel overwhelming without clear guidance. Singapore has some of the world’s strictest animal import regulations to protect public health and prevent rabies, which means careful planning is essential.
Whether you’re relocating permanently or temporarily, this guide breaks down the steps, timelines, and requirements in simple terms to help you prepare for a smooth pet relocation.
Why Importing Pets into Singapore Requires Careful Planning
Singapore is a rabies-free country, and maintaining that status is a priority. Because of this, pet importation involves several steps, including vaccination rules, blood tests, quarantine, and documentation.
Depending on your pet’s origin country, preparation may take 1–6 months, so starting early is key.
Step 1: Check If Your Pet Is Allowed into Singapore
Singapore only permits the import of:
- Dogs
- Cats
Not allowed:
- Rabbits
- Hamsters
- Guinea pigs
- Ferrets
- Hedgehogs
- Certain dog breeds (e.g., Pit Bull Terrier types, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Boerboel)
Certain breeds like Bulldogs and Persian cats may also face airline restrictions due to breathing issues.
Step 2: Identify Your Country Category (A, B, C, or D)
Singapore classifies countries based on rabies risk:
Category A – Rabies-Free Countries
Examples: Australia, New Zealand, Ireland
No blood test required, shorter quarantine requirements.
Category B – Low-Risk Countries
Examples: USA, UK, France, Japan
Requires rabies vaccination + rabies antibody test.
Category C & D – Higher Risk Countries
Examples: China, India, Vietnam, UAE
More steps, longer preparation, and longer quarantine.
Your category determines vaccination timelines and quarantine duration.
Step 3: Microchip Your Pet
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785–compliant microchip.
The microchip must be implanted before any vaccinations.
Step 4: Get the Required Vaccinations
Vaccinations needed vary by country, but most pets require:
Rabies Vaccination
- Must be done after microchipping
- Must be valid and documented
- Some origins require a waiting period of 30 days after vaccination
Core Vaccinations (Dogs):
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Parvovirus
- Parainfluenza
- Bordetella (recommended)
Core Vaccinations (Cats):
- Feline panleukopenia
- Rhinotracheitis
- Calicivirus
All vaccinations must be valid for the entire travel and import period.
Step 5: Rabies Antibody Titer Test (If Required)
For most countries (Category B, C, D), a Rabies Serology Test (RNATT) is required.
- Must be done 30 days after rabies vaccination
- Pets must show antibody levels of ≥0.5 IU/ml
- Results must come from an approved laboratory
- Some categories require a 3-month waiting period after the test before entry
This is one of the longest preparation steps—so start early!
Step 6: Apply for an Import License
All pets entering Singapore need an AVS Import License, which must be applied for 30 days before arrival.
You will also need:
- Vaccination records
- Microchip number
- RNATT results (if required)
- Health certificates
CM Relocation can assist with preparing all documents on your behalf.
Step 7: Arrange Quarantine (If Required)
Most pets entering Singapore must serve a 10–30 day quarantine at the Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station (SAQS), depending on their country category.
Category A:
May not require quarantine.
Category B:
Usually 10 days.
Category C & D:
May require 30 days.
Important:
SAQS spaces fill up fast, so booking early is essential—especially during peak months.
Step 8: Book an Approved Flight Route
Singapore requires pets to enter on approved airlines and routes. They cannot enter the country as carry-on; they must travel as manifested cargo.
Popular pet-friendly carriers include:
- Singapore Airlines
- KLM
- Qatar Airways
- Lufthansa
Some airlines have breed restrictions, especially for snub-nosed breeds.
Step 9: Pre-Export Health Check
Before flying, pets must undergo a health examination by an accredited veterinarian. You’ll also need a:
- Veterinary Health Certificate
- Export permit (from origin country)
- Parasite treatment record (fleas, ticks, worms)
Timing is usually 7 days before departure.
Step 10: Arrival in Singapore
Upon arrival:
- AVS officers inspect your pet
- Documents are verified
- Pets requiring quarantine are transported directly to SAQS
- Pets without quarantine will be released to you or your agent
CM Relocation handles arrival coordination to ensure everything moves smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Importing Pets to Singapore
- Starting late (especially for RNATT tests)
- Missing vaccination timelines
- Incomplete documentation
- Arriving without an import license
- Booking flights that do not accept pets
- Not securing quarantine dates in advance
A single mistake can delay importation or result in pets being denied entry.
How CM Relocation Helps with Pet Importation
Moving pets is emotional—we know they’re family. CM Relocation offers full-service pet relocation assistance, including:
• Complete documentation and paperwork
• Microchip and vaccine timeline tracking
• Rabies antibody testing coordination
• Import license application
• Quarantine booking and management
• Flight arrangements
• Pre-export vet check support
• Arrival clearance and transport to your home
We ensure your pet’s relocation is safe, stress-free, and fully compliant with Singapore’s regulations.
Importing your pet into Singapore may seem complicated, but with the right timeline and expert support, it becomes a smooth and structured process. The key is planning early and ensuring that every health, vaccination, and documentation requirement is met.
If you’re preparing to move to Singapore, CM Relocation is here to make your relocation smooth, efficient, and worry-free.
👉 Contact us today for expert relocation assistance.