Israel (IL)
Start-Up Nation with world-class tech ecosystem, rich ancient history, stunning Mediterranean beaches, and a vibrant expat and immigrant community.
Bringing Pets to Israel
Requirements, costs and process for relocating with your pets.
Vaccinations
Restricted Breeds
💰 Costs
Import permit application: free. SHAHAM (veterinary service) inspection at airport: NIS 200–500. Blood titer test (if required): USD 200–400 in home country. Airline pet transport fee: USD 200–800 (cargo). Private pet transport agent: NIS 2,000–6,000. Kennel fees (if quarantine needed): NIS 500–2,000.
🐕 Dog Tax / Registration
Most municipalities charge an annual dog registration fee of NIS 200–400. Required with rabies vaccination certificate. Restricted breeds require additional liability insurance.
Register with a local veterinarian within 30 days of arrival. Israeli vets are well-trained. SHAHAM (Sherutei HaVeterinaria) regulates veterinary practice. Find English-speaking vets in Tel Aviv through expat Facebook groups or the Israeli Veterinary Association (HaAguda HaVeterinari HaYisraelit).
📋 Relocation Process
1. Microchip your pet (ISO 15-digit chip — must be done BEFORE rabies vaccination for the vaccination to count). 2. Vaccinate against rabies (at least 30 days before travel; must be within 12 months). 3. If coming from a non-approved country (rare for EU/USA/UK/AU/NZ), arrange a rabies antibody blood titer test at an approved lab at least 90 days before travel. 4. Apply for import permit from SHAHAM (Sherutei HaVeterinaria shel Misrad HaChaklaut — Israeli Veterinary Service of the Ministry of Agriculture) at least 2–4 weeks before travel. 5. Get official health certificate from accredited vet in home country (within 10 days of travel). 6. Fly to Ben Gurion Airport — notify airline of pet as cargo or cabin (dogs under 8kg + carrier sometimes allowed cabin). 7. Present all documents to SHAHAM veterinarian at cargo/animal entry point. 8. Dog licence: register with municipality within 30 days of arrival. 9. Rabies booster required annually.
Israel is strict about pet import — start preparations at least 3 months before travel. Restricted breed dogs under Israel's Dangerous Dogs Law must be registered with the municipality, microchipped, vaccinated, insured against liability, and muzzled in public at all times. Some restricted breeds are effectively impossible to import. Contact SHAHAM directly at +972-3-9485825 or via the Ministry of Agriculture website for current approved countries list and requirements.