Question 1

Can I bring my dog to Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but Iceland treats every incoming dog as an imported animal, so you cannot simply fly in with your pet. You must apply for an import permit from MAST (the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority) well in advance, meet strict microchip, rabies vaccination, titre test, and parasite-treatment requirements, and your dog must travel as manifested cargo. Pets are not allowed in the passenger cabin or as checked baggage.

Question 2

Do dogs still have to quarantine in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

As of 2025-2026, Iceland replaced the mandatory facility quarantine with a home isolation period for dogs arriving from approved (lower-risk) countries that meet all import conditions. Dogs from non-approved or higher-risk countries may still require a stay at the licensed quarantine station. Always confirm the current rule for your country of origin with MAST before booking travel, as the policy is relatively new and conditions vary by country.

Question 3

How do I get a MAST import permit for my dog?

Accepted Answer

Apply online through MAST (Matvaelastofnun) and pay the application fee before your dog meets any other requirement. The permit must be approved before vaccinations and treatments are scheduled, because the valid timing of the rabies titre test and parasite treatments is counted relative to your planned arrival date. Permits are typically valid for a defined travel window, so apply only once you have firm travel plans.

Question 4

Does my dog need a microchip?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your dog must be identified with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip before the rabies vaccination is given. If the microchip is implanted after the rabies shot, the vaccination is not considered valid and must be repeated. If your dog has a non-ISO chip, bring your own scanner or have an ISO chip implanted.

Question 5

What is the rabies titre (blood) test?

Accepted Answer

After your dog is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, an approved laboratory must measure the rabies antibody level in a blood sample. The result must show at least 0.5 IU/ml. Blood is usually drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and Iceland requires a waiting period (commonly around three months) between a successful titre test and entry. This single requirement is what makes the timeline so long.

Question 6

How far in advance should I start the process?

Accepted Answer

Plan for at least four to six months, and ideally longer. The rabies vaccination, the 30-day wait before the titre blood draw, the laboratory turnaround, and the mandatory waiting period after a successful titre result all stack up. Add the time needed for the import permit approval and the final pre-travel parasite treatments, and the total can easily reach six months or more.

Question 7

How much does it cost to bring a dog to Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Costs add up across several categories: the MAST permit fee, microchipping, rabies vaccination, the titre blood test and lab fees, multiple vet visits, parasite treatments, the official health certificate, air cargo transport in an IATA-approved crate, and (if applicable) quarantine station fees. Realistically, budget anywhere from roughly $1,500 to $4,000+ depending on your origin country, airline, and whether facility quarantine is required.

Question 8

Are any dog breeds banned in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Iceland prohibits the import of certain breeds and wolf-dog hybrids, including (among others) Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Fila Brasileiro, Toy Bull Terriers, and dogs crossed with wolves. Always check the current banned-breed list on the MAST website before making any plans, as the list is subject to change.

Question 9

Can my dog fly in the cabin to Iceland?

Accepted Answer

No. Dogs imported to Iceland must travel as manifested air cargo in an IATA-compliant crate; they cannot fly in the passenger cabin or as checked baggage. They must also arrive at Keflavik Airport (KEF), which is the only designated entry point for animals, during MAST's operating hours so an inspection can take place.

Question 10

What about service dogs and assistance dogs?

Accepted Answer

Iceland does not grant a blanket exemption for service or assistance dogs; they generally must meet the same import requirements as other dogs. If you rely on a service dog, contact MAST as early as possible to discuss your specific situation, required documentation, and any accommodations, because the standard rabies titre and waiting-period rules still apply.

Question 11

Where do dogs enter Iceland?

Accepted Answer

All imported animals must arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), the only approved port of entry for pets. Your dog must arrive within MAST's working hours so that the required border inspection can be carried out. Arriving outside permitted hours or at another airport is not allowed.

Question 12

What documents does my dog need on arrival?

Accepted Answer

You will need the approved MAST import permit, the original signed veterinary health certificate, proof of microchipping, the rabies vaccination record, the rabies titre test result, and documentation of the required parasite (tick and tapeworm) treatments given shortly before travel. Bring originals; missing or incorrectly dated paperwork can result in your dog being refused entry.

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