Nefesh BNefesh

Things to Consider

• To ensure your pets' smooth Aliyah, you must abide by all rules & regulations outlined by Misrad Hachaklaut (Ministry of Agriculture) & El AL.  For detailed guidelines about bringing your pet(s) to Israel and relevant links to Misrad Hachaklaut & EL AL’s websites, see: Arranging your Pet’s Aliyah
• Some of the requirements involve obtaining documentation such as health certificates and import licenses (depending on the type and number of pets), administering vaccines, receiving the results of mandatory blood tests and notifying relevant authorities.
• Your veterinarian must be USDA or CFIA certified in order to complete the health certificate.
• If you plan to join a Nefesh B’Nefesh group or charter flight, please email pets@nbn.org.il with the following information, so that we may arrange your pets' reservations with EL AL once your flight is confirmed: Type of pet, weight of pet, weight of kennel and dimensions of kennel (height, length & width).
• If you are arriving on an individual EL AL flight, please arrange your pets' reservations directly with EL AL when booking your flight. Please note that US Airways does not allow pets on their flights.
• In cabin-seating for pets is extremely limited and is not guaranteed. Pets not assigned to the cabin will travel in the pet cargo hold which is temperature regulated.
• Be aware that the size and number of pets you bring may affect your ability to rent an apartment. Some apartment owners do not allow pets. Pets are not permitted at any of the absorption centers.

Plan Accordingly

• Start the process 4-6 months in advance and make necessary arrangements to obtain relevant certification, plan for vaccinations/blood tests/exams, and complete all other requirements.
• Provide NBN or EL AL with your pets' weight & kennel weight/measurements, and follow up to confirm your pets' reservations.
• Budget accordingly! Your veterinarian may charge you for the cost of the official health certificate and for any required exams/tests/vaccines/microchips.  If an import license is needed, Misrad Hachaklaut charges a fee before a license is issued.  In addition, make sure to bring sufficient funds to the airport in order to pay EL AL for your pets' flight.
• Make sure you have access to a fax machine 2-3 days prior to your flight’s departure in order to send the required paperwork to the relevant offices in Israel.

Aliyah Tip

Start crate training your pets a few months before your flight. For more information about preparing your pets for the journey, please read Tips for Making Your Pet’s Aliyah a Success.