When taking animals into Israel there are a number of regulations which must be observed. Pets must be accompanied by their owners and a maximum of two of each animal can be transported at one time. An animal that is not classified as wildlife is considered to be a pet and can be taken into Israel without the need for a Veterinary Import Certificate as long as several regulations are observed.

A health certificate from the country of origin must be supplied for each animal. It must have been issued by a government approved veterinary officer and state clearly that the animals have been examined and are free from disease. This will also confirm that the owner has been in possession of the animal for a minimum of 90 days.

An international vaccination certificate is required which confirms that the animals have had appropriate rabies vaccinations within the previous year, but not within a month of the travel date to Israel.

Animals younger than 3 months of age will not be allowed to enter the country. All details of the animals will need to be given to the Ramla Quarantine station. Animals and documentation will be checked when they arrive and provided everything is in order the animals will not be quarantined.

If an animal arrives in the country unaccompanied it must have a Veterinary Import Permit. These are issued by the Director of Veterinary Services. An application must be made for this permit and it has to be issued a minimum of ten days prior to the planned date of travel. Information that will have to be provided for this permit includes the species, age, breed, sex and details on the travel plans. If the permit is granted then it will include all the conditions that are needed.

There are certain animals which are not allowed into Israel. Monkeys are not permitted and any other wildlife can only be taken in and out of the country with a permit from the Nature Reserve Authority. An ordinary citizen is not permitted to bring wildlife into the country. Those bringing larger animals such as horses into the country need a permit issued a minimum of 60 days before the travel to allow for the relevant tests to be carried out.

If an animal arrives without the correct documentation they will be returned to their country of origin and all fees are the responsibility of the owner.