Changes in the regulation to import pets into Singapore
Today we had a very nice request for information: One lady from Singapore is getting married in Italy and she wants to take her little doggie with her for a vacation and to see her mommy getting married.
Because of this case we had to recheck the regulation to import and export dogs from Singapore and we realized that there have been significant changes.
The revised veterinary import conditions will be implemented with effect from 1 July 2024 and the public can submit applications for import licenses based on the revised conditions from 1 July onwards.
There will be a 6-month adaptation period from 1 July 2024 to 31 December 2024 to give the public and industry time to adjust to the revised conditions. During the 6-month adaptation period from 1 July to 31 December 2024, importers can choose to apply for licenses based on the previous conditions
This new regulation classifies the countries of origin on three Schedules, I, II and III. Depending on each schedule different rules apply.
Countries of Schedule I are Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and the UK.
Schedule II: EU countries, Bermuda, Canada, Cayman Islands, Hong Kong, Jersey, New Caledonia, Switzerland and the USA.
Rest of countries fall under Schedule III.
It is curious how Ireland and the UK fall into Schedule I and not II like the rest of EU countries. This is because their special geography (islands) and the fact that their own import regulations have become way more strict than the rest of countries in Europe.
The main changes are related to the Rabies serology test and the Post-arrival quarantine. Both are not required for Schedule I but they are required if coming from Schedule II and III
The rest of requirements as applying for dog license, import license present in the old regulation are still in place in this new update.
You can consult all details in the official website of the Animal & Veterinary Service of the Government of Singapore:
