Bringing a pet to Israel can feel overwhelming, with vaccines, paperwork, airport procedures, and confusing rules. Many Olim only discover after landing that they were missing a document or needed a pre-arrival permit.

This short guide will help you understand the essentials so you and your pet can arrive in Israel smoothly.

Basic Requirements

Israel allows cats and dogs to enter as long as they meet the Ministry of Agriculture’s veterinary regulations.

Here’s what every pet needs:

• Microchip

Must be ISO-compliant and implanted before the rabies vaccine.

• Rabies Vaccine

Given after the microchip, and valid at the time of travel.

•   Rabies Titer Test (FAVN)

Required for pets coming from most countries (U.S., Canada, U.K., EU).
Must be done at least 30 days after vaccination and at least 3 months before travel.

• Health Certificate

Signed by a licensed vet shortly before the flight (usually within 10 days).
Some countries require government endorsement (e.g., USDA in the U.S.).

For more information click the following link here

Import Permit (Very Important)

To bring a pet into Israel, you must request an import permit from Israel’s Veterinary Services.

Why you need it:

• Without it, your pet may be held at the airport

• Fees may be higher

• Processing on arrival takes longer

How it works:

• The permit is valid for a short window (standard: 30 days)

• You apply online and attach vaccinations + titer test results

• Approval usually takes several days

For more information and to apply click the following link here
(official Ministry of Agriculture portal)

 Airline & Flight Rules

Every airline has different policies about:

• Pets in cabin

• Pets as checked baggage

• Cargo-only restrictions

• Crate sizes

• Breed limitations

Tip:
Book your pet’s spot early. Flights to Israel often limit the number of animals allowed on board and sometimes it can take months until there is a flight that allows pets.

Most airlines do not allow sedated pets, and Israel recommends avoiding sedation unless specifically advised by your vet.

Preparing for the Flight

What to do before travel:

• Get a travel-approved crate (IATA standard)

• Attach water bottle + absorbent bedding

• Pack essential documents in your carry-on

Traveling with cats?
Bring wipes, an extra towel, and a small litter pan for long layovers.

Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport

When you land:

• Go through passport control normally

• Collect your pet (if not in cabin)

• Proceed to the Veterinary Inspection Office

• Present your documents: microchip, vaccine records, titer, import permit, health certificate

• Pay inspection fees

If all documents are correct, the process takes only a few minutes.

Missing paperwork may lead to delays, extra fees, or in rare cases, temporary quarantine.

First Days in Israel

Your pet will need time to adjust, especially to Israel’s climate.

Tips for the first week:

• Keep your pet hydrated

• Avoid long walks during hot hours

• Register your dog with the local municipality (mandatory)

• Find a vet near your new home

• Buy local food gradually to avoid stomach issues

• Explore parks and dog-friendly areas

Key Tips to Avoid Problems

• Start the process at least 4 months before Aliyah

• Double-check that microchip pre-dates the rabies vaccine

• Keep all original vet records

• Bring printed + digital copies

• Notify your airline of the pet well in advance

Bringing a pet is an emotional part of Aliyah — planning ahead makes the process smoother for both of you.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general informational purposes only. Israel’s pet import rules, airline regulations, and veterinary requirements may change. Aliyapp is not responsible for errors, changes in regulation, or any costs related to pet travel. For the most up-to-date details, refer to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Veterinary Services and your airline’s official policies.