Can I Bring My Cat to Singapore from Malaysia by Car? [June 2025 Edition]

A cheerful cat and its owner embark on an international road trip from Singapore to Malaysia, passing iconic landmarks along the way.

A lot of pet owners want to know, "Can I bring my cat from Malaysia to Singapore?" Yes, but it's a lot more complicated than just driving across the Causeway. To keep its rabies-free status, Singapore has some of the strictest rules in the world on bringing animals into the country. As of June 2025, Singapore's Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) officially lists Malaysia as a Schedule III country. This implies that bringing a cat into the country requires a 30-day quarantine and strict adherence to AVS standards.

This guide has all the information you need to know about bringing your cat overland from Malaysia to Singapore, including the paperwork and vet requirements, the laws at checkpoints, and the changes that will happen in 2026.

What it means for Malaysia to be a Schedule III country

Malaysia is next to Singapore; however, it is not on Schedule II. AVS puts all countries that aren't on Schedule I or II onto Schedule III. This indicates that Malaysia is thought to have an unknown or higher risk of rabies, which means that Singapore's strictest pet import rules immediately apply. If you're moving from Malaysia, you need to follow AVS rules and treat it like a high-risk rabies area.

Understanding the Quarantine Requirement

All cats that come from Malaysia must stay at Singapore's Animal Quarantine Center (AQC) for 30 days after they arrive. You have to do this. The 30-day quarantine still applies, even if your cat is healthy, fully vaccinated, and microchipped. Depending on your cat's medical history and titre test results, AVS may also give your cat a rabies shot when it arrives. It's important to book your pet's quarantine spot early through Singapore's Quarantine Management System (QMS) because there aren't many spots available.

You need permits and veterinary papers.

Every cat owner must do a few things at least 30 days before they move to Singapore. You can get an AVS Import License from Singapore's GoBusiness Licensing Portal. You might also need to apply for a separate Cat License if you are bringing in more than three cats. You also need to confirm and book your cat's stay in quarantine through the QMS portal, in addition to these permissions.

From a veterinarian's point of view, your cat needs to have a microchip that meets ISO 11784/11785 criteria. After that, your cat needs to get a rabies shot at least 28 days before getting a rabies antibody titre test. You must take this titre test at least 90 days before you arrive in Singapore, and the results must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.

The FVRCP vaccine, which protects against feline panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus, is also needed for your cat. You will need a veterinarian health certificate from the Malaysian Department of Veterinary Services within seven days before leaving. This certificate must show that your cat is healthy and able to travel.

Getting into Singapore by land through the Tuas Checkpoint

Tuas Checkpoint is the only place where you can bring pets into Singapore, even if you're driving from Malaysia. Pets are not allowed at Woodlands Checkpoint. You need to make an appointment for an inspection at the Checkpoint Animal & Plant Quarantine (CAPQ) facility in Tuas once you've picked a date to go. You must book the inspection using the iFAST system at least five business days before you arrive. If you don't make this appointment, you will have to pay S$80 per hour for a late inspection.

You will need to provide your import license, the approved health certificate, vaccination and rabies titre records, and verification of the microchip on the day you enter. You also can't schedule your trip on Sundays or public holidays, when CAPQ services are closed.

New Rule in April 2026: AVS-Recognized Agent Is Required

Singapore's AVS has said that pet owners will no longer be able to handle the CAPQ examination or take their pet to the quarantine center on their own starting on April 1, 2026. A pet relocation agent who is recognized by AVS must handle all pet imports through CAPQ. This agent's job is to set up the CAPQ inspection, fill out the customs and AVS forms, and make sure that your cat gets safely from the checkpoint to the Animal Quarantine Center. If you want to move after this date, it's best to hire a well-known agency well in advance.

Things You Shouldn't Do When Moving

There are a few frequent mistakes that might make moving more difficult. A common problem is going through the wrong checkpoint, such as Woodlands instead of Tuas. Trying to get in on weekends or holidays can also be a difficulty because CAPQ services are not available then. Not booking a quarantine spot early enough is another mistake. If you neglect to book the CAPQ inspection, the rabies titre test takes too long, or the health certificate is sent at the wrong time, you may have to pay more or be denied entrance. It will be against the rules to not use a recognized agent after April 2026. If you need one, don't forget to seek a Goods and Services Tax (GST) import permission from Singapore Customs.

Getting Ready for the Trip

It's important to plan ahead. Once you know that Malaysia is in Schedule III, you may start by getting your AVS permits and a spot in quarantine. Make sure your cat gets all the right vaccines and testing done on time and is microchipped. You should get the health certificate and sign it within seven days of your vacation. Set up your CAPQ examination at Tuas and make sure you arrive on a weekday. Lastly, make sure your cat is in a comfy kennel with the right ID tags and water and that the car is well-ventilated the whole time.

Final Thoughts

So, is it possible to drive your cat from Malaysia to Singapore? Yes, but only if you meticulously follow the AVS rules for bringing things into the country. Malaysia is a Schedule III country, which means it has to follow Singapore's harshest requirements for bringing pets into the country. Your cat needs to stay in quarantine for 30 days, and all travel must go via Tuas Checkpoint with an approved inspection and all the right paperwork. Starting in April 2026, you will need to hire a pet relocation agent who is recognized by the AVS to get your pet into the country and take them to the quarantine center.

You're not the only one who feels like the procedure is too much. A lot of pet owners hire experienced movers to avoid stress and delays. Our team at Pawsport Express knows all about AVS regulations and will help you with everything from getting a license to booking transportation and quarantine so you and your pet can focus on getting used to your new home in Singapore.