Relocating to Singapore with your pet? Whether you’re moving from the U.S. or another country, the process requires significant time, preparation, and attention to detail. The good news is, with the right support, it’s entirely manageable. This guide will walk you through the Singapore pet import regulations, covering everything from microchipping and vaccinations to quarantine and import documentation.
🇸🇬 Why Is Pet Transport to Singapore So Strict?
Singapore is an island nation with a delicate ecosystem. To protect its local wildlife and biodiversity, the country has some of the strictest pet import regulations in the world. These rules help to prevent the introduction of foreign diseases and pests that could threaten its fragile environment.
While these regulations can seem overwhelming, PetRelocation is here to help. We’ll guide you every step of the way and ensure that your pet’s relocation is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
🗓️ Timeline Overview: Plan 4–6 Months Before Departure
The timeline for relocating your pet to Singapore is crucial to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Here’s a quick overview:
| Step | Time Before Departure |
| Microchip & Rabies Vaccination | 4–6 months |
| Rabies Titer Test | 3–4 months |
| Veterinary Documents & Import Permit | 1 month |
| Final Health Certificate & USDA Endorsement | 1 week |
🐕 Step 1: Microchip & Rabies Vaccination
Timeline: Start at least 4–6 months before departure
Your pet must be microchipped with a ISO 15-digit chip before receiving their rabies vaccination. This microchip is essential for identification and tracking throughout the process.
Once your pet is microchipped, the first rabies vaccine should be administered, followed by a 30-day waiting period before the Rabies Titer Test. After the titer test, a second rabies vaccine is required.
Rabies Vaccination Requirements:
- Primary rabies vaccine: Must be administered at least 30 days before departure.
- Second rabies vaccine: Must be administered after the titer test for eligibility to enter Singapore.
Recommended Vaccines (for both dogs and cats):
- Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella
- Cats: FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
🧪 Step 2: Rabies Titer Test (RNAT)
Timeline: 3–4 months before travel
The Rabies Antibody Titer Test (RNAT) is required to confirm that your pet has adequate levels of rabies antibodies after vaccination. The test must be conducted by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and sent to an approved lab for results.
The results of the titer test must be:
- At least 0.5 IU/mL of rabies antibodies
- Conducted 3–4 weeks after the second rabies vaccination
💡 Important: If your pet’s titer results are not sufficient, the travel plans may be delayed. Be sure to plan accordingly.
🩺 Step 3: Veterinary Credentials & Final Health Documents
Timeline: Before applying for the import permit
Before applying for your import permit, your USDA-accredited veterinarian must issue:
- Two signed rabies vaccine certificates (one for each vaccine)
- A passing Rabies Titer Test result
- A final health certificate within 10 days of your pet’s travel
What Happens If Your Vet Isn’t Accredited?
If your vet is not USDA-accredited, we can help:
- Recommend a certified vet in your area
- Provide your vet with templates and guidelines to become accredited
We work closely with veterinarians to ensure everything is completed accurately and promptly.
📋 Step 4: Import Documentation & Application
Timeline: 1 month before departure
You’ll need to apply for an import permit through Singapore’s Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS). This permit must be issued before your pet’s arrival.
Required Documents for Import:
- Rabies vaccination records
- Rabies titer test results
- Veterinary health certificate signed by an accredited vet
- Microchip implantation record
Our team manages the entire application process to ensure that everything is submitted on time and in compliance with Singapore’s regulations.
🏥 Step 5: Final Vet Visit & Health Certification
Timeline: 1 week before departure
Your vet must perform a final health check to issue the AVS Veterinary Certificate, which is required for travel. This visit ensures that your pet is fit for travel and receives necessary treatments for internal and external parasites.
🐾 This health certificate must be endorsed by the USDA before your pet’s journey.
🏠 Step 6: Quarantine & At-Home Quarantine Options
10-day quarantine requirement:
All pets entering Singapore must undergo 10 days of quarantine at a government-approved facility. This ensures your pet is free from diseases that could impact the local ecosystem.
🏡 At-home quarantine: Available for pets from the U.S. and Canada who meet specific criteria, including timely arrival with their owner. You must provide your residence details and a video of the quarantine room.
🚪 Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station (SAQS): Located near Singapore’s city center, pets at SAQS are cared for in a comfortable, professional environment. Visitations are allowed during designated hours.
🐾 Step 7: Breed Restrictions & Licensing
Certain breeds of dogs are banned or restricted in Singapore. If your pet falls into one of these categories, additional paperwork may be required, and you may need to apply for a dog license.
Banned Dog Breeds:
- Pit Bull
- Akita
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Boerboel
- Perro de Presa Canario
Restricted Dog Breeds (Requires special licenses):
- Bull Terrier
- Doberman Pinscher
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
- Mastiffs
Dog Licensing:
All dogs in Singapore must be licensed, and failure to do so can result in fines. Licensing can be done online via the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS).
📦 Step 8: Flight & Arrival
Once all documentation is in order, your pet is ready for travel. We’ll arrange:
- Pet-friendly flights
- Customs clearance at Singapore Changi Airport
- Post-arrival delivery to your home or quarantine facility
💼 Why Choose PetRelocation for Your Singapore Move?
Relocating a pet internationally is complicated, but our team handles every detail of the process, including:
- Coordinating all vet visits
- Managing import documentation
- Securing quarantine space
- Organizing flight logistics
- Ensuring your pet is healthy and safe
Our relocation specialists are experts in Singapore’s regulations and can guide you through every step of your pet’s move.
🐾 Final Checklist: Documents for Singapore Pet Import
- Microchip & rabies vaccination certificates
- Rabies titer test results
- Veterinary health certificate (USDA-accredited vet)
- Import permit from AVS
- Quarantine booking confirmation
- Final USDA endorsement of health certificate
✈️ Ready to Bring Your Pet to Singapore?
Planning ahead is key for a seamless relocation. Let our team manage the complexities of the process so you can focus on settling into your new life in Singapore with your furry friend.
Contact us for a free consultation and to get started!
Helpful searches to get started:
- “Singapore pet import requirements 2025”
- “USDA-accredited vet for pet travel”
- “Singapore quarantine facilities”
- “Breed restrictions in Singapore for dogs”