Official Import Rules
Iceland has extremely strict import rules — one of the most difficult countries for pet imports. Cats must have an ISO microchip, rabies vaccination, FAVN titer test (≥0.5 IU/ml), and specific additional vaccinations and treatments including feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, herpesvirus, and parasite treatments. An import permit from MAST is required well in advance. All documents must be approved by MAST before travel.
A mandatory 14-day (2-week) quarantine at one of Iceland's two MAST-approved quarantine stations applies to ALL imported cats. This reduced period has been in force since March 2020. Iceland has been rabies-free throughout recorded history.
Regulatory Update — April 2026
The EU's legacy pet movement regulation (No 576/2013) transitions to the new Animal Health Law framework on 21 April 2026. Core requirements remain unchanged — microchip, rabies vaccination, EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate — but border authorities are now enforcing stricter document checking. In particular, the microchip-before-vaccination sequencing rule is being scrutinised more carefully: if your cat's rabies vaccination was administered before the microchip was implanted, that vaccination is invalid for EU entry. Ensure all documents are complete, correctly sequenced, and that microchip numbers match across every certificate before travelling.
Medical Roadmap
Microchip (ISO 11784/11785)
Rabies vaccination → 30-day wait → titer test (≥0.5 IU/ml)
Additional vaccines: feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis
Tapeworm and internal parasite treatment
Apply for import permit from MAST (8–12 weeks before travel)
Health certificate within 10 days of travel — submitted to MAST at least 5 days before arrival
Arrive at Keflavík Airport (KEF)
14-day mandatory quarantine at one of Iceland's two approved quarantine stations
Preparation Checklist
6+ months before
3–6 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
All imported cats must undergo a minimum of 14 days (2 weeks) quarantine upon arrival. This reduced period has been in force since March 2020, down from the previous 28-day requirement.
Iceland has two MAST-approved quarantine stations for cats and dogs. Importers must contact and book a place at one of these stations directly before travel:
- Einangrunarstöðin í Reykjanesbæ — located in Hafnir, Reykjanesbær, approximately 15 minutes from Keflavík Airport
- Einangrunarstöðin Mósel — located in Hella
Book your place at one of these stations well in advance as capacity is limited.
City & Housing Tips
Reykjavik is the primary destination and has good vet care. Iceland's cat population is small but cats are well-loved. Indoor cats are common due to harsh weather. The famous Reykjavik cats are a cultural icon.
Vets & Common Parasites
Good veterinary care in Reykjavik. Limited options outside the capital. Iceland has very strict biosecurity — this is why quarantine exists. Vet costs are high by European standards. Pet insurance recommended.
Find Vets in IcelandExit Rules — Leaving Iceland
Exit is simpler but requires a health certificate from a licensed Icelandic vet. MAST can endorse certificates for international travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely. All cats must complete 14 days (2 weeks) at one of Iceland's two MAST-approved quarantine stations, regardless of vaccination status. The quarantine period was reduced from 28 days to 14 days in March 2020. Iceland has been rabies-free for centuries and takes this seriously.
Iceland has two approved quarantine stations: Einangrunarstöðin í Reykjanesbæ (in Hafnir, Reykjanesbær, about 15 minutes from Keflavík Airport) and Einangrunarstöðin Mósel (in Hella). Both are MAST-approved and must be booked directly by the importer in advance. Cats get individual kennels and daily care during their stay.
If you're relocating long-term, yes. The process is strict but manageable. For short stays, the 14-day quarantine makes it impractical — consider a pet sitter instead.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Iceland. Plan ahead and book one of the two approved quarantine stations well in advance — capacity is limited.
The rabies titer test for Iceland takes time — blood must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and lab results take 2–3 weeks. If travelling from a country where rabies is present (such as the USA or Canada), at least 90 days must pass from the date the blood sample was taken before your cat can be imported. Don't leave this to the last minute.
Given Iceland's complex import process, many relocators recommend hiring a licensed pet transport agent.
Have you moved to Iceland with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.