Iceland – Veterinary Care

What is the standard of veterinary care in Iceland?

Veterinary care in Iceland is of a high calibre, delivered by qualified and well-educated practitioners across a range of clinical services. These include vaccinations, surgical procedures, dental treatment, and diagnostic laboratory work. Expats arriving from countries with developed veterinary systems will find the quality of care broadly on par with what they are accustomed to in most western European nations.

Specialist services covering areas such as ophthalmology, cardiology, and neurology are also available, meaning that pets with complex or long-term conditions can be referred for more advanced care. However, given Iceland’s modest population, the depth and breadth of highly specialised veterinary services is naturally narrower than in major metropolitan centres elsewhere in Europe.

Out-of-hours and emergency veterinary provision in Iceland is more concentrated than in countries like Germany or the Netherlands, where dense urban populations sustain extensive networks of round-the-clock animal hospitals. It is therefore important to identify a clinic offering emergency services before a crisis arises, particularly if your pet has an existing health condition.

Veterinary clinics are distributed across the country, with the greatest concentration found in larger towns and cities. In more remote or rural regions, the number of available practices can be limited. If you are relocating to one of Iceland’s more isolated areas, it is advisable to locate your nearest clinic ahead of your arrival and familiarise yourself with travel distances to the capital region, where the fullest range of veterinary services can be found.

Since veterinary medicine cannot be studied within Iceland, every practising vet has completed their training at a university abroad — predominantly across Europe. This ensures that Iceland’s veterinary community operates in alignment with European professional standards, and Iceland has incorporated EU veterinary legislation into its own legal framework.

Is there a national veterinary association in Iceland?

The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) is the statutory body responsible for supervising veterinary practice throughout Iceland. It issues licences to vets and maintains a publicly accessible register of those currently authorised to practise. This register is the primary means by which members of the public can verify a vet’s credentials.

MAST functions as the Competent Authority in Iceland across a wide range of domains, including food safety, animal health and welfare, control of feed, seed and fertilisers, plant health, and the quality of drinking water. Its mandate extends across both companion and agricultural animals, as well as the broader food production chain.

MAST operates under the Ministry of Industries and Innovation and maintains six District Offices around the country, where District Veterinarians and Official Veterinarians deliver services in accordance with applicable legislation. The authority’s head office is located in Selfoss, roughly 50 km to the east of Reykjavík.

You can contact MAST at the following details:

• Website: www.mast.is/en
• Address: Dalshraun 1b, 200 Hafnarfjörður (Capital Area District Office)
• Phone: +354 530 4800
• Email: [email protected]
• Pet import enquiries: [email protected]

The Icelandic Veterinary Association (IVA) serves as the professional body representing veterinarians in Iceland. Its aims include advancing animal health and welfare and supporting the ongoing professional development of its members through continuing education, networking events, and access to current research. The IVA also collaborates with government bodies and other organisations on matters relating to animal health and welfare. Readers are encouraged to consult both the MAST and IVA websites directly for up-to-date information on licensing, registered practitioners, and professional standards.

When considering licence applications, MAST assesses whether veterinary qualifications were obtained at a recognised institution within the EU or EEA. Degrees awarded by universities outside these regions are referred to the Icelandic veterinary council for evaluation before a licence can be granted.

How do I find a vet in Iceland, and are English-speaking vets available?

The most reliable starting point for finding a properly licensed vet is MAST’s official register, accessible at www.mast.is/en. The MAST website also lists district office contact details, which can help you identify veterinary services in your local area. For broader searches, the Icelandic Yellow Pages (fjarskipti.is) and Google Maps are both commonly used tools for locating nearby clinics.

English-speaking staff are present at many veterinary clinics in Iceland, particularly within Reykjavík and the surrounding capital area, where the expat population is most concentrated. The Nordic Animal Clinic in Reykjavík is one example of a practice with English-speaking veterinarians on its team, offering consultations, surgical procedures, dental care, laboratory testing, and emergency services.

Language can present a practical challenge, especially in dealings with older clients or in regions outside the capital. If you are settling in a rural part of the country, it is worth contacting local practices in advance to establish what language support is available. Expat networks operating on Facebook and platforms such as Internations are a valuable source of first-hand recommendations from people who have already navigated the experience of finding veterinary care in Iceland.

Another option worth noting is Hestdoktorinn, a mobile veterinary service that brings consultations, vaccinations, and laboratory testing directly to the pet owner’s location. This can be especially beneficial for those living in more remote parts of the country where access to a fixed clinic may be inconvenient.

What vaccinations and preventive treatments does my pet need in Iceland?

Iceland applies rigorous biosecurity standards, and the vaccination and testing requirements for animals entering the country are more stringent than those of many comparable European nations. Once your pet has taken up residence in Iceland, your local vet will advise on the appropriate ongoing vaccination schedule. Iceland holds rabies-free status, and preserving this is a central motivation behind the strict import health requirements.

For dogs, the core vaccinations required for import and recommended for ongoing preventive care include:

• Rabies vaccination administered between 30 days and 12 months prior to entering Iceland.
• Distemper, infectious contagious hepatitis, and canine parvovirus, according to manufacturer’s instructions or no less than 14 days and no more than one year prior to import.
• Leptospirosis vaccination at least 14 days prior to entering Iceland.
• Testing for Brucella canis and Angiostrongylus vasorum within 30 days of import, or treatment for Angiostrongylus vasorum.

For cats, the requirements include:

• Vaccination against feline viral rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, and feline leukaemia within six weeks of import. Cats must also be tested for antibodies within 14 days of import.
• Rabies vaccination and a titer test, in line with the requirements for dogs.

Iceland is free from a number of parasites and infectious diseases that are prevalent in other parts of Europe. Your vet will offer guidance on appropriate ongoing preventive treatments once your pet is resident. Iceland’s cold climate eliminates many parasites found in warmer climates, but ticks are present and year-round parasite prevention should be discussed with your veterinarian. Always consult your Icelandic vet for personalised, up-to-date recommendations, as requirements and risk profiles may differ by pet type and location.

What does veterinary care cost in Iceland?

Veterinary fees in Iceland tend to be higher than those in many other countries, which is consistent with Iceland’s overall cost of living — comparable in scale to Norway or Switzerland, where health-related services across the board carry a significant price premium relative to central or southern Europe.

A standard consultation with a small animal vet in the Reykjavík area generally falls within the range of ISK 8,000–15,000 (approximately €55–€105 at 2025 exchange rates), though this varies between practices and shifts over time. Combined annual vaccination and health check appointments typically cost more. Current pricing should always be confirmed directly with your chosen clinic, as fees are determined independently by each practice and are not subject to central regulation.

Specialist consultations, diagnostic imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI, and surgical interventions attract considerably higher fees. Emergency out-of-hours care, where it is available, generally commands a premium, as is standard in most countries. Rural practices may operate with different pricing structures, but limited local competition does not reliably translate into lower costs — staffing and logistical expenses in more remote areas can sustain elevated fee levels.

As a useful benchmark for administrative costs, the import permit fee for bringing a cat or dog into Iceland is ISK 39,633 (as of 2025). This is the minimum fee, applicable only when all required documentation is submitted correctly and on time. Quarantine station costs are charged separately and vary between facilities — contact the relevant quarantine station directly for current rates.

Is pet insurance available in Iceland, and is it worth it?

Pet insurance is obtainable in Iceland, though the market is considerably smaller and less mature than in countries such as Sweden, where the pet insurance sector is highly developed, or the Netherlands, where uptake is widespread. In light of Iceland’s elevated veterinary costs, insurance is a worthwhile consideration — particularly for animals of breeds known to be prone to health complications.

Several Icelandic insurance providers, including some of the larger general insurers operating in the country, offer pet insurance products. The website icelandpet.is is one example of a platform dedicated to pet-related products and services in Iceland. Given that the market continues to evolve, it is advisable to search locally and compare options, as product availability and pricing differ between providers.

Standard pet insurance policies in Iceland — as in other Nordic markets — typically cover accident and illness treatment, surgical costs, hospitalisation, and prescription medications. Some policies include optional wellness coverage for routine care such as vaccinations and health checks. Pre-existing conditions are almost universally excluded from coverage under standard policies, which makes registering your pet before any health issues emerge a sensible approach.

When reviewing policies, pay careful attention to annual claim limits, per-condition caps, co-payment obligations, and any breed-specific exclusions. The growing tendency to treat pets as family members is a key trend fuelling demand for premium pet products and services across the Nordic region, and this is reflected in an expanding range of insurance offerings in Iceland. That said, the smaller market size means choices remain more limited than in larger neighbouring countries. Always read policy terms thoroughly and confirm in advance what documentation your Icelandic vet will need to provide when you submit a claim.

What are the rules for bringing a pet into Iceland?

Iceland’s animal import rules are notably strict, making early preparation essential. The full process typically spans several months, and failing to follow the correct procedures can result in your pet being denied entry or placed in extended quarantine at your expense.

Key rules at a glance:

• Dogs may only be transported to Iceland by air travel. Keflavík Airport is the only approved entry port for pets.
• All pets must arrive at Keflavík Airport. Arrival by ferry is not permitted.
• From 11 April 2024, it is no longer permitted to transport dogs and cats to Iceland in aircraft passenger compartments. This does not apply to certified service dogs and pets that are transiting at Keflavík Airport.
• Your pet must be identified with a 15-digit microchip compliant with ISO standards 11784 or Annex A of ISO standard 11785 prior to entering Iceland.
• Importers must apply for an import permit from MAST, and pets must fulfil health requirements (vaccinations and testing) in addition to staying in quarantine for two weeks upon arrival.
• Your pet’s documentation must include an import permit, proof of microchip, current rabies vaccination, rabies titer test, and an export health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in the country of origin.
• Dogs and cats may only be imported from an approved exporting country. An import licence issued by MAST must be obtained before the animal is imported.

Country categories: Iceland divides approved exporting countries into two groups. To qualify, your dog or cat must have resided in that country continuously since birth or for a minimum of six months before import. If the country of origin does not appear on either list, your pet cannot enter Iceland. Consult the MAST website for the current, definitive list of approved countries.

Quarantine: The quarantine period is 14 days. Animals are generally admitted to quarantine stations at three-week intervals, and each quarantine group must remain in isolation together for the full 14-day period. Places at quarantine stations must be reserved before travel.

How to apply — step by step:

1. Confirm your country of origin is on MAST’s approved list and identify the correct country category (Category 1 or 2) at www.mast.is/en.
2. Microchip your pet — a microchip ties your pet to its documentation when entering the country and helps reunite you if your pet is separated during travel. The chip must be a 15-digit ISO-compliant chip.
3. Complete all required vaccinations and blood tests (including a rabies titer test) within the specified timeframes. Dog and cat importers are encouraged to do the rabies vaccination and antibody test in a timely manner.
4. Apply for an import permit from MAST. If you have an Icelandic ID (kennitala), you can apply online through the MAST portal. Otherwise, contact MAST by email at [email protected].
5. A payment request for the permit fee will be sent upon receipt of the application. This fee covers administration as well as the import control on arrival and upon discharge from the quarantine station.
6. Book your place at an approved quarantine station in advance. Pets imported into Iceland are required to stay in quarantine for two weeks. Contact the quarantine station at www.einangrun.is for admission dates, fees, and other practical matters.
7. At least five days before the date of arrival, send a copy of the Certificate of Health and Origin for Import to MAST at [email protected]. Bring originals of the import permit, Certificate of Health and Origin, and the rabies antibody test report.

Breed restrictions: The following dog breeds are not permitted entry: Pit Bull Terrier/American Staffordshire Terrier/Staffordshire Bull Terrier/American Bulldog, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Dogo Argentino, Cane Corso, Presa Canario, Boerboel, and dogs with a comparable origin, physique and/or temperament to banned breeds. If in doubt about the type of dog you are planning to import, contact MAST for further information.

Other pets: An import permit is required to send a pet bird or a pet rodent or rabbit to Iceland. Check the MAST website for current requirements for these species, as rules differ from those for cats and dogs.

Always verify requirements directly with MAST before beginning the process, as rules change and non-compliance can result in your pet being refused entry or placed in extended quarantine. Visit www.mast.is/en/import-export/import-of-live-animals for the most current guidance.

Are there any animal welfare laws or pet ownership regulations I should know about in Iceland?

Iceland operates a comprehensive framework of animal welfare legislation applicable to all pet owners, including those who have recently arrived in the country. MAST acts as the Competent Authority on animal health and welfare matters and is charged with enforcing welfare regulations nationwide. Iceland’s animal welfare laws are aligned with EU standards through the EEA Agreement.

Dogs are subject to registration requirements in Iceland. Reykjavík and other municipalities run dog registration schemes, and dogs must generally be registered and licensed with the relevant local authority. Municipal fees and registration procedures differ between areas, so it is worth checking with your local municipality (sveitarfélag) upon arrival. Local authority websites typically carry this information, though usually in Icelandic; the capital city’s services can be accessed via www.reykjavik.is.

Leash requirements are in force across many parts of Iceland, particularly in urban settings, public parks, and protected natural environments. Iceland’s nature reserves and highland regions are ecologically significant areas where strict lead requirements exist to safeguard native wildlife, including ground-nesting birds. In certain protected zones, dogs may be entirely prohibited during nesting season. Always consult local bylaws and signage when taking your pet into natural areas.

Dogs that are pregnant or nursing are not permitted entry into Iceland. Once your pet is resident, welfare rules govern housing standards, appropriate care, and conditions of keeping. District Veterinary Officers have powers to conduct welfare inspections at farms and private homes, and may remove animals found to be suffering mistreatment.

Certain exotic species, hybrid animals, and pets derived from wild stock face restrictions or outright prohibition on importation and ownership. Regulations do not include the import of wolf hybrids or Savannah and Bengal cats unless they are fifth generation removed from the wild pedigree. If you own an unusual or exotic species, consult MAST directly before making any plans to bring the animal to Iceland.

As municipal rules vary, always verify current requirements with your local authority and with MAST for animal health-related matters. The Ísland.is government services portal is a helpful starting point for finding relevant official information in English.

Frequently asked questions about veterinary care and pet ownership in Iceland

Do I really have to quarantine my pet when moving to Iceland?

Every cat and dog entering Iceland must complete a minimum of 14 days in quarantine at one of the country’s two approved quarantine facilities. Exemptions are not available for pets arriving from any country, regardless of their health documentation, with the exception of certified assistance dogs. Places at quarantine stations must be reserved before you travel. Check availability and current admission schedules well ahead of booking your flights.

Can I bring my pet to Iceland on the ferry?

All pets must enter Iceland via Keflavík Airport. Arrival by ferry is not permitted under any circumstances, regardless of the country of departure. Ensure you book a pet-approved flight well in advance and review the specific policies of your chosen airline, as these differ between carriers.

How long before moving do I need to start the pet import process?

Iceland’s pet import requirements are stringent, making it vital to begin preparations with considerable lead time. For pets originating from Category 1 countries, the process may take approximately four to five months due to vaccination and titer testing schedules. For Category 2 countries, a minimum of seven months is advisable. Begin by contacting MAST at [email protected] to clarify your country’s classification and the specific requirements that apply.

Are vets in Reykjavík able to communicate in languages other than Icelandic?

English-speaking staff are present at many veterinary clinics, particularly those in Reykjavík and the wider capital region. In areas further from the city, language support may be less consistent. It is always prudent to telephone a clinic in advance to confirm the languages spoken before making an appointment.

What is the import permit fee for bringing a dog or cat to Iceland?

The permit fee is ISK 39,633 (as of 2025). This represents the minimum amount, applicable only when all required documents are submitted correctly and within the specified timeframe. Additional expenses — including quarantine station fees, veterinary health certificates from your home country, laboratory testing, and airline charges — will increase the overall cost. Always consult the MAST website for the most current fee schedule.

Is my pet’s EU Pet Passport accepted in Iceland?

Iceland is not a member of the European Union, though it participates in the European Economic Area. The standard EU Pet Passport is not accepted as sufficient documentation for importing a pet into Iceland. A full import permit from MAST, health certificates, and a rabies titer test are required regardless of any documentation your pet already holds. The concept of a “pet passport” for Iceland should not be confused with the official EU Pet Passport issued to pets residing within EU member states.

Are there any dog breeds that are banned in Iceland?

The following breeds are prohibited from entering Iceland: Pit Bull Terrier/American Staffordshire Terrier/Staffordshire Bull Terrier/American Bulldog, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu, Dogo Argentino, Cane Corso, Presa Canario, Boerboel, and dogs of comparable origin, physique and/or temperament. If your dog is of mixed heritage or you are uncertain whether it falls under these restrictions, contact MAST directly before making any travel arrangements.

Is veterinary care in Iceland covered by any national health scheme?

No equivalent of a national health service exists for animals in Iceland. All veterinary costs are met privately, meaning consultation fees, treatments, and medications must be paid out of pocket by the owner or reclaimed through a private insurance policy. Given Iceland’s high cost of living, veterinary fees can be substantial. Setting aside a budget for both routine and unexpected veterinary expenses — or securing appropriate pet insurance coverage — is strongly recommended for anyone relocating to Iceland with a pet.