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 4-week quarantine at the Keldur quarantine facility applies to ALL imported cats. 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
Arrive at Keflavík Airport (KEF)
4-week mandatory quarantine at Keldur facility in Reykjavik
Preparation Checklist
6+ months before
3–6 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
4 weeks at Keldur quarantine facility
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 4 weeks at the Keldur quarantine facility in Reykjavik, regardless of vaccination status. Iceland has been rabies-free for centuries and takes this seriously.
Keldur is well-run. Cats get individual kennels and daily care. Owners can visit during designated hours. Staff provide updates on your cat's wellbeing.
If you're relocating long-term, yes. The process is strict but manageable. For short stays, the 4-week quarantine makes it impractical — consider a pet sitter instead.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Iceland. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
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. 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.