Jan 26, 2025
On August 1, 2017, the Ministry of Agriculture updated the procedures for importing dogs and cats to Israel, with some import guidelines remaining unchanged.
The rules set by the Ministry of Agriculture are not clear to those who do not deal with this on a daily basis. For this reason, we prepared this comprehensive guide which will simplify the procedures for importing dogs and cats into Israel.
Note: this guide is for pet owners that are bringing dogs and cats to Israel with an import permit.
The Israeli authorities clearly state that all dogs and cats must be microchipped with a 15-digit ISO compliant pet microchip before entering Israel.
In addition, dogs/cats must:
Important Note: Failure to meet these requirements may result in your pet being returned to its country of origin, subjected to quarantine, or in extreme cases, euthanized (put to death).
We recommend you check out the following article: Bringing Pets To Israel
The Ministry of Agriculture has introduced a significant change in the importation process.
According to Section 8 of the updated guidelines, any dog or cat requiring an import license/permit, must fly into Israel with an airway bill and the pet will only be released at the cargo terminal of Ben Gurion.
In other words, animals that arrive in Israel with an import permit won’t be released through the passenger terminal (Terminal 3).
As outlined in Section 1 of the Ministry of Agriculture‘s import procedures, an import permit is essential for all dogs and cats entering Israel.
However, dogs and cats imported accompanied by their owners as excess baggage and/or in-cabin, up to two in number, are exempt from needing an import permit.
In addition, the owner must prove and declare that the animal was in his/her possession for at least 90 days prior to bringing it to Israel.
An Air Waybill (AWB), or Bill of Landing, is a vital document issued by an airline for cargo shipments. The AWB indicates the shipper’s and recipient’s details, shipment description, quantity, and other important information.
The air waybill serves as a contract between the airline and the customer, and it must be obtained before the pet leaves the country of origin.
The number of an air waybill consists of 11 digits, of which the first three numbers indicate the airline, such as:
Did you manage to understand what the Ministry of Agriculture requires of you?
Since the procedural updates, we have fielded numerous inquiries about how to import dogs and cats into Israel.
To clarify, “via a bill of lading” means your pet must travel as air cargo. This means you cannot take your pet in-cabin or as excess luggage.
If an import permit is required, shipping your animal as cargo is mandatory.
We recommend you check out the following article: Flying Pets Unaccompanied
Usually, to get an air waybill, you typically need the help of a customs agent experienced in pet transportation.
Some airlines may issue an air waybill directly to pet owners without a customs broker, but from our knowledge, this is pretty rare. Nowadays, airlines prefer to work with an expert pet shipper and not with pet owners, that are most likely doing this for their first time.
Don’t waste valuable time – reach out to a professional pet shipper who can issue the AWB and help you navigate through the process!
When you’re at the airport in the country of origin, head straight to the cargo terminal – not the passenger terminal.
Once at the cargo terminal, you’ll meet with your customs broker and/or the duty officer of the airline company, who will assist you with the journey of your beloved pet.
Be prepared to present your pet’s flight crate, all the necessary documents, and of course, your furry friend.
They will inspect the flight crate to ensure it meets the IATA regulations and is spacious enough for your pet.
Here’s a crucial tip – don’t expect the shift supervisor or customs agent to verify your pet’s documents; they often lack this knowledge and won’t guarantee that everything is in order.
The final green light to bring your pet into Israel comes exclusively from the Israeli authorities, so be sure to send them a copy of all your documents at least two working days before your flight.
Without the approval from the Israeli authorities, you won’t be able to fly your dog/cat to Israel.
In most countries, it’s required to check in your pet at least 3-6 hours before the flight. The personnel who’ll provide you with the air waybill should guide you on when and where to be at the airport.
Expect the process at the origin airport to be relatively quick – around 30 to 60 minutes. However, brace yourself for a lengthy procedure in Israel, which can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.
At Ben Gurion Airport the process is long, as you’ll have to navigate through multiple checkpoints, including the airline, customs, and veterinary inspections, before finally being reunited with your pet.
The 2017 changes in the import procedures for bringing dogs and cats to Israel have significantly impacted the cost for pet owners.
Previously, pets such as dogs and cats could be transported as personal luggage, either in-cabin or in the cargo hold. This was a more economical option and the cost ranged from $200 to $400.
However, since the updated regulations, if an import permit is required, the pet must now be sent as cargo, which substantially increases the cost – exceeding $1,500 USD.
Smaller pets, like puppies and cats, may incur somewhat lesser costs, but the increase remains significant in comparison to the previous expenses.
In addition to the transportation fees, there are further costs involved, such as the issuance of a bill of lading (AWB), import fees and taxes (VAT). These charges are applicable regardless of the size or nature of the pet being transported.
Moreover, pet owners need to consider pre-existing expenses which are independent of the 2017 procedural changes. These include the initial purchase cost of the animal, documentation fees, veterinary care, breeder services, and acquiring an appropriate flight crate.
The increased financial burden on pet owners indicates the need for careful financial planning before importing dogs and cats into Israel
We recommend you read the article: How Much Does It Cost To Fly A Dog?
Although it conflicts with our work, we would be happy if people would buy fewer puppies abroad and start adopting dogs and cats here, in Israel.
Our local shelters are overflowing with wonderful dogs and cats, all in need of a loving family.
If you still have your heart set on purchasing a puppy from abroad, make sure you proceed with caution. Only buy from reputable breeders who come highly recommended by trusted friends.
In addition, and if possible, consider paying in instalments to protect yourself financially.
The world is full of puppy scams – many have fallen victim, losing hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, without ever receiving their puppy.
Many people often ask us – Is it possible to import a dog/cat to Israel on your own?
The truth is, while the answer isn’t always straightforward, more often than not, the answer is yes. The beauty of our modern world is that many tasks can be tackled solo.
However, is this advisable? Not really!
We believe the real question isn’t “Can you do it alone?” but rather, “Do you want to navigate this complex, lengthy, and costly process without expert guidance?”
Importing dogs and cats to Israel can be a daunting task, and that’s where we come in!
Before you dive into discussions with breeders, we highly recommend reaching out to us for valuable tips and insights.
Given the expense and the numerous documents involved, you might also want to consider our flight consultation and management service. It’s an affordable option that can significantly ease the burden of the process.
At Pets2Fly, we offer a range of services tailored to your needs. Whether you want minimal assistance or a comprehensive package where you don’t have to lift a finger, we’ve got you covered.
With a network of trusted agents across the globe, we can provide our services in most countries.
If you’re still set on bringing a furry friend from abroad, after everything we’ve shared, don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’ll handle all the necessary arrangements until your pet is safely released at the airport, at which point we’ll notify you to come and take your beloved companion home.
We would love to hear from you!
