Bringing a dog or cat to Singapore is exciting – but it also requires careful planning.
Singapore has strict import requirements to protect both pets and public health. Whether you’re relocating permanently or temporarily, understanding each step ensures a smooth, stress-free journey for your pet.

This guide explains how to import pets into Singapore, covering microchipping, vaccinations, RNATT, import permits, and quarantine – latest update.

Table of Contents

1. Check If Your Pet Is Eligible

Only dogs and cats are allowed to be imported into Singapore. Other pets such as rabbits, hamsters, or birds require special permission and are not covered under standard procedures.

Prohibited Dog Breeds

Singapore does not allow the import of certain dog breeds, including:

Pit Bull types (e.g. American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, etc.)
Akita
Tosa
Neapolitan Mastiff
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro

Prohibited Cat Breeds

Bengal, Savannah, Chausie, or any other wild hybrid cat breeds are prohibited.

Always verify your pet’s breed eligibility before starting the process.

2. Understand Singapore’s Country Categories

Singapore classifies all exporting countries into three schedule (or categories) (I – III) based on rabies risk. The requirements differ depending on which schedule your pet comes from.

Schedule	Rabies Status	Countries
I	Rabies-free	Australia, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom.
II	Rabies-controlled	Austria, Belgium, Bermuda, Canada, Cayman Islands, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong SAR, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, New Caledonia, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain (except Ceuta and Melilla), Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, USA.
III	Rabies-affected	Any country/region except countries/regions listed under Schedule I and II of the Veterinary Conditions for the Importation of Dogs/Cats.

If your pet is from schedule III, additional steps like the Rabies Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) and quarantine are required.

For more information: Identify exporting country/region rabies risk category

3. Microchip Your Pet

All pets entering Singapore must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip before receiving any vaccination.
The microchip serves as the pet’s official identification, linking it to vaccination records, health certificates, and import documents.

Tip: If your microchip is not ISO-compliant, bring your own scanner during import inspection.

4. Complete the Required Vaccinations

After microchipping, your pet must be up to date with core and rabies vaccinations.

For Dogs:

Rabies
Distemper
Hepatitis
Parvovirus
Parainfluenza

For Cats:

Rabies
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis
Calicivirus
Panleukopenia

The rabies vaccine must be administered at least 30 days and no more than 12 months before export.
Keep all vaccine records signed and stamped by a licensed veterinarian.

5. Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT)

For pets from schedule II and III, this step is mandatory.

The RNATT test confirms that your pet’s rabies antibody level meets international standards (≥ 0.5 IU/mL).

Conducted at least 30 days after rabies vaccination.
Processed by an EU- or OIE-approved laboratory.
Must be done at least 3 months before travel.

This step is crucial to prove your pet’s protection against rabies and gain import approval.

6. Apply for a Dog License and Import Permit

If you are importing a dog, you must obtain a dog licence before applying for an import licence.

You can also arrange with your pet relocation expert or you can apply yourself via NParks/Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS)’s online portal.

Keep both a digital and printed copy of the permit for customs inspection.

You can also check: Singapore Pet Import Requirements (AVS official site)

7. Book Quarantine (if required)

Pets from schedule II may have to serve quarantine and schedule III must serve quarantine upon arrival at the Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station (SAQS).

Duration: 10 – 30 days, depending on origin and vaccination history
Booking is first-come, first-served – reserve early
Owners may arrange visits, food preferences, and comfort items

For schedule I, quarantine is often waived after a clean health inspection.

8. Health Certificate & Pre-Export Vet Check

Within 7 days before departure, your pet must undergo a final veterinary examination.
Your vet will:

Confirm your pet’s good health
Verify the microchip and vaccination details
Issue an Official Health Certificate

9. Travel Preparation & Flight to Singapore

Ensure your pet’s travel crate meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards:

Correct crate size (your pet can stand, turn, and lie down comfortably)
Secure metal door and proper ventilation
Food and water containers attached
“Live Animal” labels and contact info clearly visible

Tip: Get your pet familiar with the crate weeks before travel to reduce stress.

Learn more: How to Prepare Your Pet’s Travel Crate (IATA Standard)

10. Arrival & Customs Clearance in Singapore

Upon arrival, your pet will go through Changi Animal & Plant Quarantine Station (CAPQ) for inspection.
Prepare the following:

Import permit
Health certificate
Vaccination and RNATT records

After inspection:

Pets from schedule I countries can go home immediately.

Pets from schedule III countries are transferred to SAQS for quarantine.

Tips for a Smooth Import to Singapore

Begin the process at least 4 – 6 months before travel.
Keep every document labeled with your pet’s microchip number.
Track vaccination and RNATT timelines carefully.
Work with a professional pet relocation service in Singapore to coordinate paperwork, permits, and quarantine bookings.

Check out: Our Pet Relocation Service to Singapore

Final Thoughts

Importing pets into Singapore can seem complicated, but with the right preparation, it’s entirely manageable.
From microchipping and vaccinations to quarantine booking and health certificates, each step ensures your furry companion arrives safely and meets all regulations.

Start planning early, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to get expert help – your cat or dog deserves a safe, smooth, and stress-free relocation to Singapore.

Disclaimer: Policies or requirements may change without notice due to country-specific regulations. Contact us for the latest updates.