If you want to re enter Japan with a dog, the process is very similar to the original import. Even if you only leave Japan for 1 day, you need to re import your dog on it’s return. That means it must meet all of the requirements for entry to Japan. Check out my other page here where I cover the full requirements. On this page, I’ll just cover the slight differences from the original import. Of course not everyone will have originally imported their dog to Japan, some will have been born in Japan. In this instance, it’s important you read the requirements on my import page and then follow the details here.
It’s therefore vital you keep on top of your dogs vaccines and titer test after arriving in Japan, not allowing either to expire. Remember, Japan only recognises the titer test for 2 years. If you let this expire, you’ll need to do another one and then wait 180 days before you can come back to Japan. You must also do the advance notification at least 40 days in advance, so it’s not possible to do a last minute quick trip!
To re enter Japan with a dog you need to follow the below steps;
- Have export permit from Japan (see how to do this here)
- Do advance notification at least 40 days in advance to receive import permit
- Vet needs to complete form RE in exporting country
- Form RE is to be endorsed by Government Vet in exporting country
- Apply for import inspection
- Complete import inspection on arrival in Japan
- Receive quarantine certificate
Form RE
The biggest different from importing originally to re entering is that instead of the vet completing form AC, they will complete form RE. The form RE itself is very similar to form AC. The biggest difference is that instead of inputting your vaccine and titer test details, you input the export certificate reference from when you left Japan.
If you had any vaccines after you left Japan, you would need to also input these and provide proof of them as well. As per the original import, you e-mail all these documents to the quarantine section where you will arrive. For us, again we went through Narita airport so the guys there were super helpful.
Upon arrival in Japan, you will need to have all originals of each document for the import inspection. It seems pretty easy as long as you keep up to date with your rabies vaccine and titer test, it just takes a bit of preparation.
I’m so pleased I can still travel to and from Japan quite easily. Keep your eye on my Youtube channel for videos of all my adventures.
Woof woof, Wylie x
Don’t forget to check out my Amazon store (affiliate link) which has all the details all of my recommended products I use then travelling. You can check it out here. If any of my travel tips help, you can also leave a small donation which would be greatly appreciated 😊
