Cat licensing became mandatory in Singapore from 1 September 2024. The government introduced a free transition period to give existing cat owners time to comply. That transition period ends on 31 August 2026.
After 31 August 2026, any cat in Singapore without a valid AVS licence is subject to fines of up to S$5,000. If you have not yet licensed your cat, do it now — the process takes minutes and there is no fee during the transition period.
All requirements on this page are sourced from official AVS/NParks information at avs.nparks.gov.sg. Verify current guidelines before proceeding.
Why Cat Licensing Was Introduced
Singapore introduced mandatory cat licensing as part of the broader framework to enable cats in HDB flats — ending a 34-year ban on cats in public housing that took effect on 1 September 2024. Licensing allows AVS to maintain a national registry of owned cats, support responsible ownership, and reunite lost cats with their owners via microchip records.
The Key Dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1 September 2024 | Cat licensing mandatory for all cat owners in Singapore |
| 1 September 2024 | Cats officially permitted in HDB flats (up to 2 per flat) |
| 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2026 | Free transition period — no licence fee |
| 1 September 2026 | Free period ends; fees apply; fines for unlicensed cats up to S$5,000 |
What You Need Before Applying
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Microchip | ISO 11784/11785 (15-digit chip); must be implanted before licence application |
| SingPass | Required to log in to PALS |
| Cat's vaccination records | Proof of core vaccinations |
| Sterilisation record | If your cat is sterilised; determines licence type |
If your cat is not yet microchipped, visit a licensed vet to have the chip implanted before starting the PALS application.
How to Apply via PALS
- Go to pals.avs.gov.sg
- Log in with SingPass
- If you are a first-time applicant: complete the free PORK (Pet Owner Responsibility and Knowledge) online course before proceeding — it takes approximately 30 minutes
- Select "Apply for Pet Licence" and choose cat
- Enter your cat's microchip number
- Upload vaccination records and sterilisation certificate (if applicable)
- Submit the application
- Receive confirmation of licence
During the free transition period, no payment is required. After 31 August 2026, fees apply — confirm the fee structure on the AVS website at that time.
Licence Types
| Cat status | Licence type |
|---|---|
| Sterilised | Lifetime licence — no renewal needed |
| Unsterilised | Renewable licence (shorter validity period) |
Sterilisation provides both welfare and practical benefits for your cat, and results in a simpler lifetime licence rather than a recurring renewal obligation.
Breed Restrictions
The following cat breeds cannot be licensed in Singapore because they are prohibited from import and ownership:
- Bengal cats
- Savannah cats
All other domestic cat breeds are permitted. If you have a Bengal or Savannah cat that was in Singapore before restrictions were introduced, contact AVS for advice on your specific situation.
Cats Imported to Singapore
If you have imported your cat from overseas, you must also license them after arrival. The import licence and CAPQ clearance are separate from the PALS ownership licence. After your cat is released from CAPQ (or AQC quarantine if Schedule III), apply for the PALS licence as soon as they are settled.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have two cats. Do I need two separate licences? Yes. Each cat requires its own individual licence and must have its own microchip.
My cat goes in and out of the house. Does the licence cover them? Yes. The licence covers the cat regardless of whether they are indoor-only or have outdoor access. The requirement is ownership-based, not confinement-based.
I am renting in Singapore and moving back overseas next year. Do I still need to licence my cat? If your cat is in Singapore now, the licence is required. If you export your cat before 31 August 2026, you can cancel the licence at that time. Do not skip the licence just because you plan to leave soon.
What happens if my cat is lost and found without a microchip or licence? Lost cats without identification are taken to AVS or an animal shelter. Without a microchip, reuniting the cat with the owner is significantly harder. The microchip and PALS registration are your best recovery mechanism if your cat goes missing.
The PORK course — how long does it take? Approximately 30 minutes. It is a free online course covering responsible pet ownership, vaccination, licensing, and basic care. It must be completed once and applies to your account for all future licence applications.
If you recently imported your cat to Singapore and need help with the post-arrival process, contact our team for guidance.
Source: Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS). Apply via pals.avs.gov.sg. Verify current fee structure and deadline extensions at the AVS website.