Every dog and cat imported to Singapore requires not just an AVS import licence, but also a Singapore Customs permit. Most pet owners encounter this requirement only when their AVS-recognised agent asks them for a Declaration of Facts — and it causes confusion because it has nothing to do with the veterinary process.
This guide explains what the customs permit is, when GST applies, how the relief mechanism works, and what your agent handles on your behalf.
All requirements on this page are sourced from Singapore Customs at customs.gov.sg. Verify current requirements before proceeding.
Why a Customs Permit Is Required
Singapore Customs treats an imported pet as a dutiable or taxable import, similar to other personal effects. Even though your pet is not a commercial good, the Customs Act requires a permit to be obtained for their entry into Singapore.
The permit requirement applies to all dogs and cats imported to Singapore, regardless of:
- Import schedule (I, II, or III)
- Whether the owner is a Singapore citizen, PR, or foreigner
- Whether the pet is accompanying the owner or arriving separately
The permit must be obtained before your pet arrives — it cannot be applied for retrospectively at CAPQ.
What Permit Type Is Required
The permit type depends on whether GST applies:
| Situation | Permit type |
|---|---|
| GST applies (pet imported from outside Singapore) | Customs In-Payment (GST) permit |
| GST relief applies | Customs In-Non-Payment (GST Relief) permit |
Both permit types require a Singapore customs declaring agent to submit the declaration via the TradeNet system. Your AVS-recognised CAPQ agent typically handles this as part of their service. Confirm whether customs permit handling is included in your agent's scope.
Does GST Apply to Importing a Pet?
GST at the current rate of 9% is charged on the declared value of the pet unless you qualify for GST relief.
GST relief applies if:
- You have personally owned the pet for at least 6 months before bringing them to Singapore
- You are a Singapore citizen or permanent resident returning to Singapore after living abroad, or a foreigner relocating to Singapore for the first time
If you adopted or purchased the pet recently (less than 6 months before arrival), GST applies on the declared value of the animal.
Even if you qualify for GST relief, you still need a customs permit. The permit type changes (In-Non-Payment instead of In-Payment), but the permit requirement does not disappear.
Declaration of Facts
If you are claiming GST relief, Singapore Customs requires a Declaration of Facts — a written statement confirming:
- Your relationship to the pet (owner)
- How long you have owned the pet (must be at least 6 months)
- The purpose of import (personal pet, not commercial)
Your agent will request this document from you. Provide it accurately. Making a false declaration to Singapore Customs is a serious offence.
Declared Value of Your Pet
For the customs permit, you declare the value of the pet. For personal pets, this is typically the purchase price or adoption fee paid, converted to Singapore dollars. If you received the pet as a gift or adopted for free, declare a nominal value based on market value for the breed.
If GST applies (because you have owned the pet for less than 6 months), GST is calculated at 9% of this declared value.
How the Permit Is Obtained
Your CAPQ agent handles the permit submission via TradeNet, Singapore Customs' permit declaration platform. As the pet owner, you provide:
- Declaration of Facts (if claiming GST relief)
- Proof of ownership duration (vet records, vaccination history, or adoption papers)
- Pet's declared value
- Your personal details (NRIC, passport, or FIN)
The permit is typically obtained a few days before your pet arrives. Your agent should not wait until the day of arrival to apply.
What Happens If the Permit Is Missing at CAPQ
Without a valid customs permit, CAPQ clearance cannot be completed. Your pet cannot be released from the cargo area.
This is why engaging your agent early matters. The customs permit is one of several documents that must be in place before arrival day, and it requires information only you can provide (particularly the Declaration of Facts).
Frequently Asked Questions
My agent has not mentioned the customs permit. Should I ask them about it? Yes. Confirm with your agent that the Singapore Customs permit is included in their service. Most established CAPQ agents handle this routinely, but confirm explicitly so you are not surprised on arrival day.
I adopted my pet 2 months ago. How much GST will I pay? GST is calculated at 9% of the declared value of your pet. For example, if your pet's declared value is S$2,000, the GST would be S$180. Your agent can advise on the correct declaration amount.
I am relocating to Singapore as a new expat. Does GST relief apply to me? GST relief for personal pets applies to returning Singapore citizens or PRs. For first-time residents and expats on Employment Passes, the standard GST treatment applies unless you have owned the pet for at least 6 months. Confirm the current eligibility criteria with Singapore Customs or your agent.
Can I import two pets together? Do I need separate permits? Each animal typically requires a separate permit declaration. Your agent handles both, but confirm this with them when you engage their services.
What is TradeNet? TradeNet is Singapore's electronic permit declaration system for imports and exports. Businesses and licensed declaring agents use it to submit permit applications to Singapore Customs. Pet owners do not interact with TradeNet directly — your agent handles this.
Importing a dog or cat to Singapore? Your AVS-recognised agent handles the customs permit as part of the CAPQ clearance service. Contact our team for a fixed-price quote that includes all permit handling.
Source: Singapore Customs. Verify current GST rates and eligibility criteria before proceeding.