Israel has a open and transparent Importation regime. While in principle almost all products are allowed to enter Israel, for some products there are licenses requirements. The Free Import Order (5766-2006) outlines the conditions and requirements for importation of goods into Israel, using the Harmonized System as the basis for information.

 

The Free Import Order does not apply directly to goods originating from countries which Israel does not have diplomatic relations and which prohibit import of goods from Israel. Importation from these countries needs to fill the requirements of the Director General's Directive 2.4 as a precondition to import into Israel.      

 

(a)   Classification of imports

The correct classification of goods is the key to determining tax rates, as well as obtaining various authorizations, permits and licenses, and all other conditions of importation, in accordance to the applicable laws, regulations and instructions. Assistance in classification is available in Classifications and Taxation on Imports- Explanation, at the Israeli Department of Customs and VAT web site, in accordance to the products-groups to which the goods belong.

 

(b)   Requirements

The Free Import Order and its annexes set out general requirements for importation, which goods need permits and/or licenses and which authority or official body issues the permit or license. There exists a search engine (Hebrew only) to identify import requirements.