Notice for overseas assistance dog users
In Japan, the term “assistance dogs” refers to “guide dogs”, “mobility service dogs”, and “hearing dogs” certified in by the “Act on Assistance Dogs for Persons with Physical Disabilities.”
However, this act does not apply to overseas assistance dogs and their users. In order to ensure that foreign users have equal rights as Japanese users, registered assistance dog certifying organizations in Japan can issue an“Application for Temporary Certification of foreign Assistance Dog Users.” which allows international assistance dog users temporal certification during their stay in Japan.
Accepted Assistance Dogs in Japan
- Guide Dogs: The dog must be trained by a member of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).
- Mobility Service Dogs: The dog must be trained by an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI).
- Hearing Dogs: The dog must be trained by an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI).
For more information on the application process:
For more information on pets quarantine system:
Please Note the following:
- "Mobility service dogs" are defined as dogs that support their users' physical disabilities due to motor impairments.
- Service dogs for mental disorders, autism, emotional disorders, epileptic disorders, PTSD, etc. cannot be accepted as assistance dogs in Japan.
- Privately trained service dogs cannot be accepted as assistance dogs in Japan.