Bringing a Pet to Israel: Veterinary Services Requirements and What to Prepare

Israel is a compact country with high quality veterinary facilities and a growing expat community. The pet import process is government-regulated and requires advance work.

Import permit

Apply to Israeli Veterinary Services well before travel. The permit application covers the animal’s details, origin country, destination in Israel, and travel dates. Processing time varies. The permit must be in hand before the animal departs the origin country.

Health certificate

A health certificate issued by an accredited vet in the origin country, endorsed by the government authority, is required. For UK arrivals, APHA endorsement applies. The certificate should list microchip, rabies vaccination, distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis (for dogs), feline panleukopenia and other core vaccines (for cats), and a clinical examination.

Arriving at Ben Gurion

Most international pets arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). Veterinary inspectors check documentation and inspect the animal at the border post. If documentation is correct, the process is typically efficient.

Breed restrictions

Israeli law lists several breeds as restricted. American Pit Bull Terriers and related types are the most commonly affected. Confirm whether your breed is on the restricted list with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services directorate before making travel arrangements.

Practical note

Israel’s climate includes very hot summers. July and August temperatures in Tel Aviv and inland cities exceed 30 degrees C regularly. Most airlines have cargo embargoes for live animals during peak summer heat. Schedule travel outside July-August if possible, or target early morning/late evening flights that avoid midday heat at both origin and destination airports.