Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/traveling-with-dogs Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Bringing a Dog to Iceland For an ordinary pet, plan around at least 14 days at an approved quarantine station. A short holiday does not remove that requirement. Decide whether bringing your dog fits the trip before paying for flights. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() ## Quarantine still applies [MAST’s import FAQ]() applies the quarantine requirement to holiday visits as well as permanent moves. Its approved stations admit animals on predetermined dates. Choose an available admission date with the station before arranging travel. An earlier version of this page incorrectly said that ordinary dogs from approved countries could use home isolation. The current guidance does not support that claim. Certified service dogs have a separate procedure, explained below. ## Start with the right country category Use the current [MAST import page]() to check country eligibility and breed restrictions. It links both the guidance notes and matching health certificates. Do not choose a form from an old blog checklist. [D1 is for category 1 countries](). It requires an import permit, a quarantine reservation and the prescribed veterinary work. The permit must be obtained before import; the guidance does not support this page’s former instruction to postpone all vaccinations until approval. [D2 is for category 2 countries](). Its additional rabies timing matters: the qualifying blood sample must be taken at least 90 days before import. A generic “three months after the result” timeline changes the reference point and should not replace the form. Have your veterinarian use the relevant certificate to schedule vaccinations, laboratory tests, parasite treatments and final examination. Keep the microchip number consistent throughout the paperwork. Build the calendar from the approved arrival date, leaving time for laboratory results and document review. ## Get flight and airport arrangements confirmed MAST’s main import page, updated September 3, 2026 and checked September 10, lists three transport methods: cabin travel if the airline approves, checked baggage, or cargo. It requires arrival at Keflavík; import by ferry is not permitted. For a cabin pet, an approved service provider must receive the animal at the location in the permit and transfer it to pet reception. Confirm this handover as well as the airline booking. Permission to board a flight does not mean you can leave the airport with an ordinary pet. Give the airline and station the same date, flight and arrival time. Ask for the accepted crate requirements in writing. Check any transit-country requirements for your routing before buying a non-refundable ticket. ## Certified service dogs have a separate process [MAST’s service-dog guidance]() allows qualifying certified dogs travelling with their handlers to apply for home quarantine. The health requirements still apply. The accommodation must be approved, and the application includes a veterinarian responsible for the quarantine. The guidance calls for applying at least 30 days before import and specifies at least 14 days of home quarantine. This is not permission to start sightseeing immediately. Discuss the accommodation, certification and travel plan with MAST before relying on an exception. ## Budget from written quotes and completed paperwork Request separate amounts for the permit, veterinary work, laboratory tests, quarantine, transport, crate and airport handling. For a service dog, include any accommodation inspection and quarantine veterinarian. Record what each quote covers and which currency it uses. Before departure, reconcile the permit, the correct signed health certificate, laboratory reports, flight details and station reservation. MAST’s D1 guidance requires the signed certificate to be sent for approval 5–10 days before import. Use the current instructions for your own category and keep the required originals with the dog. These checks help identify missing tasks; MAST decides whether the import is compliant. Its official contact for pet-import questions is [petimport@mast.is](). Planning help ## Dog-import questions Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **Can I bring my dog for a short holiday?** Ordinary pet imports still require at least 14 days at an approved quarantine station. MAST says the rules also apply to short visits. Compare that requirement with the length and purpose of your trip before booking. **Has Iceland replaced quarantine with home isolation?** Not for ordinary pets. MAST has a separate approval process for qualifying certified service dogs travelling with their handlers. That still involves quarantine and health requirements. **Must my dog fly as cargo?** MAST currently lists cabin transport with airline approval, checked baggage and cargo. The airline must accept the arrangement, and the required airport handover and import procedures still apply. **Which veterinary timeline should I use?** Use the current MAST D1 or D2 guidance for the exporting-country category, together with the matching health certificate. Ask your veterinarian to work backwards from an approved arrival date. Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().