Customs and Duties

For visitors with nothing to declare, clearing customs at Ben Gurion Airport requires simply following the clearly marked green line in the baggage claims hall. Lines are generally short, with very little wait. Customs inspectors rarely examine luggage. The red line for those with items to declare is next to the green line. Those over 17 may import into Israel duty-free: 250 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco products; 2 liters of wine and 1 liter of spirits; ¼ liter of eau de cologne or perfume; and gifts totaling no more than $200 in value. You may also import up to 15 kg of food products, but no fresh meat.

Pets are not quarantined if you bring a certificate issued by a government veterinary officer in your country of origin issued within seven days prior to travel. The certificate must state that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies not more than a year and not less than one month prior to travel. Dogs and cats less than three months old will not be admitted. At least 48 hours prior to arrival, pet owners must send a fax to the Ramla Quarantine Section stating the name of the owner, animal species, age, flight number, and approximate arrival time.

Information in Israel

Israel Customs Authority (800/345-6541. www.israel.visahq.com/customs.)

Ramla Quarantine Station (03/968-8963. 03/960-5194.)

U.S. Information

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (877/227-5511. www.cbp.gov.)