Export pets from Singapore can be overwhelming. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or family, exporting your pet overseas requires careful planning and compliance with Singapore’s Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) export regulations.

This guide covers everything you need to know about exporting pets from Singapore, including microchip, vaccination, blood tests, export permits, health certificates, and flight preparation – all updated for 2025.

1. Check Your Destination Country’s Pet Import Rules

Every country has different import requirements for pets. Before preparing to export from Singapore, check the entry rules of your destination country, including:

Required vaccinations and validity period
Rabies Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) if needed
Quarantine requirements upon arrival
Breed restrictions
Microchip and health certificate formats
Manifest Cargo Entry

Tip: Always start by reviewing the official import requirements from the destination’s government veterinary authority or embassy.

If you’re unsure, a licensed pet relocation service in Singapore can help coordinate the paperwork with both AVS and the destination country.

Popular Destinations

2. Microchip Identification

Your dog or cat must have a 15-digit ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip before any vaccination or health record is recognized.

The microchip acts as your pet’s permanent ID – it ensures all vaccines, blood tests, and certificates are linked correctly to your pet.

Tip: Make sure the same microchip number appears on every document, from vaccination card to export permit.

3. Vaccination Requirements for export pets from Singapore

All pets exported from Singapore must have up-to-date vaccinations, especially:

For Dogs:

Rabies
Distemper
Hepatitis
Parvovirus
Parainfluenza

For Cats:

Rabies
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis
Calicivirus
Panleukopenia

Most countries require the rabies vaccination to be given at least 30 days and no more than 12 months before export.

Always keep your vaccination booklet signed and stamped by a licensed vet in Singapore.

4. Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) – If Required

Some countries (such as Australia, Japan, EU, and the UK) require a Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) before entry.

Conduct the test at least 30 days after rabies vaccination.
The sample must be sent to an approved laboratory.
The result must show ≥0.5 IU/mL antibody level.
Pets can only travel 3 months after the blood sample date, depending on the destination’s rule.

Learn more: What Is the RNATT Test and Why It’s Important

5. Apply for an Export Licence (Permit)

Apply through NParks/Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS)’s online portal under Pet Animal Export Licence.

You’ll need to provide:

Owner’s information
Pet details (species, breed, microchip number)
Destination country and flight info
Vaccination records and RNATT (if applicable)

Processing time: 1 – 2 working days
Validity: 30 days from issue date

Keep both a printed and digital copy for airport inspection.

Check official details: AVS Pet Export Guidelines (NParks Singapore)

6. Pre-export Veterinary Health Check

Within 7 days before departure, your pet must undergo a health examination by an AVS-accredited veterinarian.

The vet will:

Verify your pet’s microchip and vaccination records
Confirm your pet is healthy for travel
Issue the Official Export Health Certificate

For some destinations, this certificate must be endorsed by AVS after your vet issues it.

7. Book the Flight & Prepare the Travel Crate

Work with airlines that are IATA-compliant for live animal transport. Most major airlines from Singapore Changi Airport (e.g., Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways) provide dedicated pet transport services.

Travel Crate Guidelines (IATA Standard):

Hard-shell crate large enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
Proper ventilation on all sides
Secure metal door with locking mechanism
Attached food and water containers (refillable from outside)
Clearly marked “Live Animal” labels and contact details

Pro Tip: Let your pet get used to the crate a few weeks before departure to reduce anxiety on travel day.

8. Export Inspection at Changi Animal & Plant Quarantine Station (CAPQ)

Before the flight, all pets leaving Singapore must be presented to CAPQ (Changi Animal & Plant Quarantine Station) for export clearance.

You’ll need to bring:

Original export licence
Health certificate
Vaccination records
Airline booking confirmation

After inspection, AVS will seal the crate for transport and release your pet for flight check-in.

Tips for a Smooth Pet Export from Singapore

Start preparing at least 3 – 6 months before departure (especially if your destination requires RNATT).
Check the destination country’s quarantine and timeline requirements early.
Label every document with your pet’s microchip number.
Use a professional pet relocation service in Singapore to handle permits, logistics, and airline coordination.

Explore more: Pet Relocation Service from Singapore

Final Thoughts

Exporting pets from Singapore takes time and detailed preparation – but with the right planning, it’s a smooth journey.