Importing Into 🇮🇱 Israel
Israel Tax Authority — Customs Directorate
17%
US$75
De Minimis Threshold
US$75
75 USD
Shipments below this value may enter without customs duty. VAT may still apply depending on local rules.
Personal-import parcels under USD 75 clear duty-free under the Tax Authority's de minimis rule (lowered from USD 75 in 2024 retained at this level after public consultation). Above attracts 17% VAT plus customs (typically 0-12%) plus a clearance fee.
As of: 2024-08-01
VAT / GST on Imports
17%
Applied on the customs value (CIF — cost, insurance, freight) plus any applicable duties.
Required Documentation
| # | Document |
|---|---|
| 01 | Customs declaration form (electronic via the Tax Authority Single Window) |
| 02 | Original retail receipts for items over USD 200 |
| 03 | Ministry of Health import permit for prescription medications above 90-day supply |
| 04 | Ministry of Agriculture phytosanitary / veterinary certificate |
| 05 | Cash declaration form for amounts over USD 13,000-equivalent |
Requirements vary by shipment value, HS chapter, and origin country. Learn about each document type →
Restricted Import Categories
- ⚠Firearms and ammunition (Ministry of Public Security permit)
- ⚠Pharmaceutical drugs (Ministry of Health permit for prescription medications)
- ⚠Animal products (Ministry of Agriculture certificate)
- ⚠Plants and seeds (phytosanitary certificate from origin)
- ⚠Cultural property (export from Israel requires Antiquities Authority permit)
- ⚠Religious texts in commercial quantities
Prohibited Import Categories
- ✗Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
- ✗Counterfeit branded goods
- ✗Endangered species and parts (CITES)
- ✗Hate speech materials and Nazi memorabilia (where the speech advocates violence)
- ✗Pork products in some commercial channels (the laws are mostly enforced for retail; personal carriage is generally permitted)
Special Notes
- 01Ben Gurion Airport security screening is among the most thorough in the world; expect passenger interview and bag check on arrival and departure.
- 02Travelers with passports showing stamps from countries that don't recognise Israel (Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq) may face additional questioning but entry is not denied.
- 03VAT refund (TAXFREE) at airport for tourist purchases over ILS 100 / VAT-eligible retailer.
- 04Kashrut not enforced at customs but commercial imports of non-kosher meat face separate scrutiny.
Estimate duties and VAT for a specific shipment into Israel.
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