Moving to Israel

Are you planning to move to Israel? Whether for personal, professional, or spiritual reasons, moving to Israel is an exciting prospect. Israel’s rich history, culture, and Mediterranean lifestyle make it a popular destination.

For many, making Aliyah (immigration to Israel under the Law of Return) is a return to their ancestral homeland in the Middle East, driven by a deep cultural and religious connection to the Holy Land. With a thriving tech industry, as well as high-quality healthcare and education systems, life in Israeli cities, such as Tel Aviv, are appealing to professionals seeking dynamic career opportunities and families looking to lay down new roots.

In this guide, we will help you with an overview of customs regulations for shipping to Israel, including duty-free allowances for household goods, required documentation for international relocation, and item restrictions. We also offer step-by-step instructions for importing personal vehicles, including necessary customs clearance documents. If you are considering shipping to Israel from Canada, understanding these rules in advance can save you time and stress. Also, we provide a list of items that cannot be shipped or require special permits before they are allowed to enter Israel. Finding the best way to ship to Israel will ensure your move is as seamless as possible.

Eligibility approval allows new immigrants (Olim) and returning residents to import or purchase certain goods tax-free, including:

• Personal belongings
• Household items
• A motor vehicle (partial exemption – see below)
• Personal Belongings
  • Eligible items include clothing, footwear, and toiletries — in typical travel quantities brought as hand luggage. Import of alcoholic beverages is permitted only with Wine Institute approval. NOT recommended.
• Household Items
  • Includes standard furnishings and equipment for a residential apartment, but
  • Excludes plumbing supplies and construction materials, flooring, wallpaper, tiles, marble, etc.

Moving to Israel as a new Jewish immigrant (Oleh Hadash) is a straightforward process. How to apply? There is no need to apply in advance. When making Aliyah, the Oleh Hadash lands at Ben Gurion Airport he/she gets the Immigrant Booklet (Teudat Oleh). Upon issuing the booklet, the Ministry of Absorption transmits the newly issued ID number(s) to Israeli Customs and the duty-free allowance for shipping to Israel is updated automatically.

New Jewish Immigrants can import up to three shipments within 36 months of their entry date to Israel. Whether you are bringing used or new household goods, Israeli Customs allows international shipping to Israel duty-free as long as you do not exceed your allowance. If you are planning your shipping to Israel from Canada, this duty-free benefit can make the process much more affordable. Understanding the guidelines now will help you find the best way to ship to Israel without any surprises.

Read more if you’re moving to Israel from Canada.

Duty-Free Quantity Limits

• Appliances: 1 of each. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Computers: 3 allowed. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Televisions: 3 allowed. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Vacuum Cleaners: 2 allowed. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Hand Tools: Tools may be imported tax-free if they meet these conditions:
  • Intended for professional use (as determined by customs).
  • Must be hand tools under Customs Tariff item 84.67.
  • Total value must not exceed $1,650 USD (CIF value at port).
• Furniture – allowed in a reasonable amount to fit the home size.
• General household goods – clothing, linen, kitchenware, decorations, sports equipment, books, CD’s etc. – allowed in reasonable amounts.
• Any item that is limited in quantity is checked if the client utilizes the immigrant’s 3 shipment allowance. If you imported 1 TV on shipment #1, you could only bring an additional 2 duty-free on your 2nd or 3rd shipment.

• Israeli Customs Form MB130 (declaration form), duly filled and signed – the values should represent fair market value (i.e. how much the item worth as used) and not insurance/replacement value.
• Packing list.
• Copy of Israeli ID card and/or Teudat Oleh.
• Israeli Customs Form MB165 (authorization to customs agent), duly filled and signed OR a digital authorization via World Gate portal (manual is available by request)
• Receipts for items bought in the last year (mainly appliances)
• Bill of lading (will be issued by the international moving service agent packing your shipment abroad).

Israeli citizenship can be applied for by various groups, including individuals with Jewish ancestry under the Law of Return, those who have lived in Israel for a specified period, and those married to an Israeli citizen. Children born to Israeli citizens abroad, with at least one parent being an Israeli citizen, are also eligible. The process involves fulfilling residency requirements, demonstrating basic knowledge of Hebrew, and integrating into Israeli society. Each category has specific criteria and documentation requirements for eligibility.

To apply for returning Israeli citizen status you need to fulfill two conditions:

1. Residence abroad for more than 2 years.
2. The sum of all visits in each year did not exceed 120 days in each year of living abroad.

Moving to Israel as a Returning Israeli Citizen? Once you arrive in Israel, within hours from passing passport control at Ben Gurion airport, they can apply directly to Customs using their GOV.IL profile via this link. If all is in order, confirmation will be given within seconds. There is no need to visit the Ministry of Absorption or wait for their booklet. Shipping to Israel under the duty-free entry program can be activated separately by Customs. If you receive a rejection, it means you do not qualify for Returning Israeli Citizen status.

Note: this process can’t be assisted by a Customs Broker. It must be done solely by importers.

Returning Israeli Citizens can import up to 2 shipments within 9 months of their entry date to Israel.Whether your goods are used or new, Israeli Customs allows international shipping to Israel duty-free as long as you stay within your duty-free allowance. If you are shipping to Israel from Canada, understanding this process early will help you avoid unnecessary delays and find the best way to ship to Israel efficiently.

• Appliances: 1 of each. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Computers: 3 allowed. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Televisions: 3 allowed. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Vacuum Cleaners: 2 allowed. If you bring more, pay duties.
• Furniture: allowed in a reasonable amount to fit the home size.
• General household goods – clothing, linen, kitchenware, decorations, sports equipment, books, CD’s, etc.: allowed in reasonable amounts.

Any item that is limited in quantity is checked if the client utilizes his/her 2 shipments allowance. If you imported 1 TV on shipment #1, you could only bring an additional 2 duty-free on your 2nd shipment.

Required Documents

• Israeli Customs Form MB130 (declaration form), duly filled and signed – the values should represent fair market value (i.e. how much the item worth as used) and not insurance/replacement value.
• Packing list.
• Copy of Israeli ID card/Israeli Passport.
• Israeli Customs Form MB165 (authorization to customs agent), duly filled and signed OR a digital authorization via World Gate portal (manual is available by request).
• Receipts for items bought in the last year (mainly appliances)
• Bill of lading (will be issued by the agent packing your shipment abroad).

In general, foreigners do not qualify for duty free-entry upon relocation to Israel. They must pay 17% VAT (current tariff till 31.05.2028) on the declared value + shipping charges up to clearance port (i.e. CFR value).

If you’re moving to Israel on a Foreign Work Visa or a Clergy Visa, you have the option to submit a digital bank guarantee that must be valid for your entire period of stay in Israel. Shipping to Israel under these visa types can involve additional steps. This process can be time-consuming and could result in storage fees at the port of entry and may involve bank fees. The digital bank guarantee must be from an Israeli bank that established the digital process of issuing guarantees. Israeli Customs can’t accept paper guarantees. Once goods are re-exported from Israel, Israeli Customs will cancel the guarantee and will notify the bank accordingly.

In many cases, the hassle of issuing the guarantee and the storage fees associated with the process are higher than the amount of duties/taxes expected to be paid. Consider paying the duties/taxes and avoid hassles and bureaucracy.

Required Documents for Customs Clearance:

• Israeli Customs Form MB130 (declaration form), duly filled and signed – the values should represent fair market value (i.e. how much the item worth as used) and not insurance or replacement value.
• Packing list.
• Copy of Valid Visa, that should be valid for at least 1 year.
• ePOA (electronic Power of Attorney) – customs broker will assist you with that.
• Receipts for items purchased in the last year (especially appliances).
• Bill of lading (will be issued by the moving company agent packing your shipment abroad).
• In some cases, customs will ask for a confirmation letter from the employer, academic institute, or religious organization.
• Proof of residence in Israel in order to proceed with working on the file.

Diplomats moving to Israel are considered official only after the Israeli MFA issues them a diplomatic ID card. This is completed once the diplomat arrives after moving to Israel and assumes their position at the diplomatic mission. Without a diplomatic ID card issued, the importer will not be eligible for duty-free shipping to Israel or customs clearance.

Required Documents for Diplomats
Israeli Customs Form MB130 (declaration form), duly filled and signed – with one lump sum value for the entire shipment. There’s no need to break down into commodity groups.

• Bill of lading.
• Packing list.
• Copy of passport.
• Copy of Israeli ID card.

Some items are not restricted, but incur duties, taxes and/or purchase tax even for Returning Citizens.

• Electronic & Communication Equipment
  • Wireless equipment not approved by the Ministry of Communications
  • Radar laser jammer detectors
  • Electronic items with batteries or liquids

• Valuables & Currency
  • Jewelry or large amounts of cash (subject to declaration and restrictions)
  • Counterfeits or imitations of: Coins, Documents, Sales invoices, Certificates of origin, Preference documents.

• Chemicals, Cleaning Agents & Hazardous Materials
  • Cleaning supplies (e.g., bleach, soaps, Windex)
  • Any chemicals or corrosive substances
  • Hazardous materials:
  • Fireworks, and Pyrotechnics
  • Combustible, corrosive, flammable, or explosive substances
  • Toxic or poisonous materials
  • Pressurized gas tanks:
  • Propane, helium, carbon dioxide, etc.
  • Used sacks or packaging materials previously used for vegetative material.

• Medicine & Narcotics
  • Narcotics and dangerous drugs of any kind
  • Medical marijuana, even with a prescription/license
  • Goods used to make or consume dangerous drugs.

• Weapons & Dangerous Devices
  • Weapons and ammunition (automatic/military strictly prohibited)
  • Firearms (including disassembled or imitation)
  • Switchblade knives
  • Any knife not classified as a pocketknife or not clearly for professional, craft, or household use.
  • Wrap-like or starter pistols, gas-operated firearms, or any similar imitation weapon.
  • Tear gas canisters shaped like firearms.
  • Explosives or flammable items

• Animals, Animal Products & Agricultural Risks
  • Live animals
  • Animal products such as Furs, skins, ivory, tortoise shells.
  • Wood carvings (subject to inspection)
  • Used beekeeping (apiculture) equipment.

• Food, Alcohol & Consumables
  • Alcohol – Do NOT ship alcohol to Israel. Alcoholic beverages only are permitted with Wine Institute approval. Subject to duties and taxes regardless of status. Importing alcohol will delay the clearance and excessive extra storage charges as this is a lengthy process.
  • Items containing narcotics or drugs (including consumables)
  • Food items
    • Up to 15 kg (35 lbs) of dry food only – No limit on value and are Duty free ONLY for consignees with eligible status
    • Subject to payment of full duties and taxes: Spices – 500 g per type, 5 kg total within the 15 kg limit above. (Saffron – up to 20g)

• Gambling, Games & Media
  • Gambling equipment and accessories, Lottery tickets or ads without official permits, Forbidden games, Pirated or obscene media in Books, DVDs/CDs, Software, Religious or political media containing:
    • Blasphemy
    • Treason
    • Incitement to violence, terrorism, or racism
    • Sympathy for terrorist organizations

• Documents & Identity
  • Important personal documents (e.g., passports, birth certificates) should not be shipped, but kept on hand.

• Other
  • Electric Bicycles / Scooters / Skateboards and ALL Helmets (such as but not limited to helmets for Bicycle, Motorcycle, ATV).
  • Used Lawn Mowers (import permit required from the Ministry of Agriculture – Very difficult to get and will attract significant additional storage charges).
  • New or used Fire Extinguishers, Bicycle car racks, 3-D printers.
  • Seeds and live plants, Taxidermy, Ivory, Rawhide and untreated wood.
  • Used car parts – require import license from Ministry of Transport.
  • Car-top storage bin (made of plastic, aluminum, or similar hard material).
  • All Baby car seats.
  • Trailer will not be allowed.
  • Boats & Jet skis will require an import license from MOT (The Israeli Ministry Of Transportation) and will attract additional luxury taxes.
  • Items installed permanently in the house – kitchen cabinets, sanitary equipment, wallpaper, sauna, jacuzzi, gazebo, etc. – Subject to Taxes and Duties.

• An Israeli can import a vehicle up to 2 years old (From Date of Manufacturing to date of entry in Israel).
• Toshav Hozer can import a vehicle up to 4 years old.
• Oleh Hadash – No limit on age of vehicle
• All can import a collectible / Antique vehicle over 30 years of age.
• Date of Manufacturing can be found on a sticker at the driver’s door.
• Returning residents – The vehicle has been approved for import by the Ministry of Transport.
• The vehicle did not sustain any accidents.
• The importer holds a valid Israeli driver’s license for the type of vehicle.
• The vehicle must be imported into Israel within 9 months of the date of entry into the country.
• The importer must be at least 17 years old on the day of entry into Israel.

Additional notes:

• A vehicle may only be released from customs after an import license has been obtained from the Vehicle Import and Type Approval Department of the Ministry of Transport.
• The import license must be obtained before the vehicle arrives in Israel.
• Receiving an import license after the vehicle has already arrived in Israel is a violation and may result in a fine or penalty payment.
• The vehicle must remain under the importer’s ownership during 5 years after import. (This information changes from time to time. Check with the local authorities for most updated information)
• Many cars imported from North America to Israel may have to change their headlights to comply with the Israeli (European) road safety standards. If the headlights don’t meet Israeli regulations, the car will initially be issued a temporary 1-month license during the registration process. During this month you have to replace the headlights, go back to the Israeli Motor Vehicle Bureau, perform and pass an annual “test”. Once your vehicle passes the inspection, you will receive a standard 1-year car license. The cost will depend on the vehicle model and the electrician doing the installation – Around ₪2000 – ₪2500
• In Israel Vehicles will require Mobileye Lane change installed on this vehicle – Visit mobileye.com
• Vehicles MUST have ESP Traction Control.
• After the import, the importer must visit the License Bureau, Register the vehicle, obtain and attached license plate.
• For further inquiries, please contact the Vehicle Type Approval Department at the Ministry of Transport.

If you’re planning a relocation to Israel and are considering importing your vehicle, it’s important to understand that the customs clearance process for cars is more complex than for personal effects or household goods. When moving to Israel, understanding the specific regulations around vehicle imports is essential to avoid delays. Shipping to Israel involves additional paperwork and duties when it comes to motor vehicles compared to standard household goods.

This guide is designed to help you prepare for customs clearance and reduce delays. Whether you’re making Aliyah, moving to Israel from Canada, or relocating for work or study, knowing the process in advance can help you drive your vehicle in Israel as quickly as possible.

Important Notes on Document Submission
Israeli Customs is highly meticulous when analyzing documents submitted during the clearance process. To avoid clearance delays, please make sure all documents are scanned in full, in high resolution to ensure all scans are clear, legible, and complete. Do not use mobile cameras at an angle. Any missing or unclear documentation will lead to misunderstanding by Customs when analyzing the documents and may cause unnecessary delays in clearance. Please take a few extra minutes to make sure all documents are clearly scanned.

Before Your Vehicle Arrives at an Israeli Port
Unless you are a New Immigrant (Oleh Hadash) or a diplomat, all Israeli ID number holders must obtain an import license from the Israeli Ministry of Transportation, issued specifically for the vehicle you are importing (i.e. make, model, VIN number, etc.). The application should be submitted online by the importer, as this is a process not associated with the Customs Clearance process. Please make sure you put the EXACT details on the application (ID number, full name and last name, VIN number, engine volume etc.). Any error in the license might revoke it and result in re-application.

Important: For any reason, the vehicle arrives in Israel before the license is issued, Customs will automatically issue a 5% fine based on the vehicle’s value. This penalty is generated by the system and cannot be waived.

Vehicle Import Checklist – Documents Required for Customs Clearance
This checklist will help you to prepare the customs clearance documents in advance. Please, DO NOT take photos of documents, using your mobile camera in an angle! Documents should be fully scanned (The entire document, if more than 1 page, make sure to scan all pages) and make sure the scans are clear and readable in good quality.

Israeli Consulates in Canada

Embassy of Israel in Ottawa, Canada
50 O’Connor Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1P 6L2
Canada
City: Ottawa
Phone: (613) 567-6450
Fax: (613) 567-9878
Web Site: new.embassies.gov.il/canada/en
Email: info@ottawa.mfa.gov.il
Office Hours: 10:00 – 13:00

Consulate General of Israel in Quebec, Canada
Suite 2620
1155 Boul. René Lévesque Ouest
Montreal, Quebec
City: Quebec
Phone: (514) 940-8525
Fax: (514) 940-8510
Web Site: new.embassies.gov.il/montreal/en
Email: consular@montreal.mfa.gov.il
Office Hours: Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM (except national and Jewish holidays)

Consulate General of Israel in Toronto, Canada

2 Bloor St E #400, Toronto, ON M4W 1A8

Phone: (416) 640 8500
Fax: (416) 640 8555

Web Site: new.embassies.gov.il/toronto/en

Orbit International Moving Logistics Ltd. was established by 2 long time family friends who had experienced moves with mixed results. However, none have satisfied the quality of service needed during such an emotional and straining event. We have extensive experience relocating customers worldwide by Ocean Freight and Air Cargo as we are an international shipper. Our rates are always All-inclusive. What sets us apart is the level of service we offer our customers. We provide free, no-obligation estimates, listen to your concerns, and find the solutions best suited to meeting your removal and relocation needs – whether you’re moving your family (i.e. door-to-door, door to port, full containers, RO-RO, custom crates, etc.) We offer free consultations with one of our relocation specialists and assist you in planning moving to Israel and choosing the right overseas moving services.