Products that may require special approvals include electrical and electronic goods, wireless equipment, toys and baby products, medicines, supplements, cosmetics, food and agricultural products, hazardous chemicals, controlled goods, vehicles, and some automotive parts. The exact permit, standards declaration, registration, or exemption depends on the product, its customs classification, intended use, and whether the import is commercial or personal. Check these requirements before ordering or shipping the goods.
Electrical and electronic products
Electrical appliances and certain electronic products may be subject to mandatory Israeli standards. Depending on the product and import route, clearance may involve a standards declaration or a formal approval. Testing by an accredited laboratory may be needed in some cases; it is not a universal requirement for every phone, computer, or appliance.
Wireless and communications equipment
Products that use radio frequencies, including some routers, drones, and two-way radios, may require clearance from the Ministry of Communications. Exemptions and different procedures can apply to particular devices and personal imports, so check the specific model and its technical characteristics before shipping.
Toys and products for babies and children
Toys, strollers, child car seats, feeding products, and similar goods can be subject to product-specific safety standards. The applicable standard and clearance route vary by item. Confirm the requirements for the exact product rather than assuming that every children’s product follows the same test or certification process.
Medicines, supplements, and cosmetics
Medicines are regulated by the Ministry of Health and may require product registration and an import authorization. Food supplements follow food import rules, with requirements that depend on their classification and ingredients. Cosmetics intended for sale require the applicable product license or marketing notification; separate import permits can apply to samples and raw materials.
Food, beverages, and agricultural products
Commercial food imports require Ministry of Health oversight. Importers generally need registration, while the product route differs for ordinary food, sensitive food, and food of animal origin. Meat and other animal products may also involve veterinary controls; plants and fresh produce can involve plant-health requirements. Check labeling obligations for the particular product. Kosher certification may matter commercially, but it is not a blanket customs clearance requirement.
Chemicals and hazardous substances
Chemicals, pesticides, fuels, and hazardous substances may be subject to permits or controls from different authorities according to their composition and use. Safety documentation, packaging, and labeling may also be required. Confirm the substance classification and applicable import conditions before booking transport.
Weapons and controlled or dual-use goods
Firearms, ammunition, military items, and certain controlled dual-use products can require dedicated licenses or approvals. The responsible authority depends on the item and its control classification. Do not ship controlled goods until the specific licensing requirements have been confirmed.
Vehicles and automotive parts
Cars, motorcycles, electric mobility devices, and some vehicle parts may need Ministry of Transport approval or proof of compliance with applicable standards. Requirements can differ between a complete vehicle, a replacement part, and a personal import.
How to check the requirements before shipping
Start with the product’s full description, technical specifications, intended use, and customs tariff heading. Search Israel’s Free Import Order and the relevant government service for the specific item. A customs broker can help confirm the classification and identify the documents needed for release. If an approval is required, arrange it before the shipment arrives to reduce the risk of delay, storage charges, or refusal of release.
For the shipment paperwork, see our guide to documents required for international shipping. Orner can help review the logistics and coordinate with the relevant customs and regulatory professionals for your product.
