Pet Transport Japan to France: 2026 Guide
Regulations sourced from DEFRA, USDA APHIS, DAFF and other official authorities. How we source our data →
The Japan to France process
Responsible: Vet in Japan
Responsible: Vet in Japan
Responsible: Owner or agent
Responsible: AQS-registered vet plus AQS endorsement
Responsible: Airline cargo and French customs
France: entry requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Microchip | ISO 11784/11785 microchip required. Must predate the rabies vaccination. |
| Rabies vaccination | Valid rabies vaccination required. 21-day wait after primary vaccination. |
| Rabies titre test | Not required. Japan is on the EU's listed third countries schedule under EU Regulation 576/2013. Source: food.ec.europa.eu, 2026. |
| Quarantine | No quarantine for compliant pets. French customs inspects at Paris CDG. |
| Import permit | No import permit required. AQS-endorsed EU-format health certificate is the required document. |
| Health certificate | EU-format certificate endorsed by AQS, issued within 10 days of travel. |
Export requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Export permit | No formal export permit required for companion animals from Japan. Primary departure airports: Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda (HND). |
| Health certificate | Official veterinary health certificate issued by an AQS-registered vet and endorsed by Japan's Animal Quarantine Service (AQS). EU-format required. Pet must be examined at an Animal Quarantine Station before export. Issued within 10 days of travel. |
What this route typically costs
| 1 | AQS health certificate and endorsement: JPY 10,000-30,000 (approximately EUR 60-185) |
| 2 | IATA-compliant crate: EUR 80-250 if needed |
| 3 | Cargo NRT/HND to CDG (ANA or Air France direct): EUR 1,200-2,800 depending on crate size |
| 4 | Pet transport agent (optional): EUR 150-400 |
| 5 | Total typical range: EUR 1,550-3,600 |
Read before you book
Airlines on this route
Japan EU-listed: no titre test and the AQS certificate process
Under EU Regulation 576/2013, Japan is a listed third country. The EU recognises Japan’s rabies-control standards as equivalent to its own, so Japanese pets do not need a FAVN titre test to enter France. The requirements are: valid ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination (21-day post-primary wait), and the AQS-endorsed EU-format health certificate. Source: food.ec.europa.eu, 2026.
The AQS (Animal Quarantine Service) is Japan’s official authority for animal export certification. Before any pet leaves Japan, it must be examined at an Animal Quarantine Station. This is a legal requirement in Japan, separate from anything France demands. The AQS-registered vet carries out the examination and issues the certificate; AQS then endorses it. Book the appointment two to three weeks before travel to keep the certificate within the 10-day validity window.
ANA and Air France direct to CDG and France's breed check
ANA Cargo operates direct from Tokyo Narita (NRT) to Paris CDG and accepts live animal cargo on this route. Air France Cargo also operates NRT and HND to CDG direct. Both airlines have live animal handling facilities at CDG, where French customs carries out the arrival inspection for pets from third countries.
France’s breed legislation divides restricted breeds into two categories. Category 1 covers Pit Bull type dogs without official LOF or FCI breed registration; these cannot be imported. Category 2 covers Rottweiler and American Staffordshire Terrier with recognised pedigree; these can enter with ongoing restrictions. Most breeds common in Japan are unaffected, but confirm your dog’s breed status before starting the process if there is any doubt.
Common questions
Start your journey
Get Your Free Quote
Enter your pet's details and route
Quotes are tailored to your specific journey.