Importer Guide
1. Import Policy – Free Import Order and Import Legality
The customs tariff and purchase tax for every customs item are specified in a separate legislative measure called the Purchase Tax and Customs Tariff Order. The online tariff system integrates fiscal, regulatory and technical requirements. Searchable by word, customs item, etc.
The Free Import Order was enacted by virtue of the Import and Export Ordinance [new version], 5739-1979. The Ordinance stipulates that every product imported to Israel requires license or authorization. The Free Import Order allows any person to import products freely, except for the products specified in Schedules 1 and 2 of the Order.
Schedule 1 column A specifies products that require an import license. Next to each customs item, in column C, is the entity that issues such license (hereinafter: Competent Authority). Schedule 2, diversely, specifies products that require an import approval (approval of meeting terms, like a mandatory standard). Next to each customs item, in column C, is the required approval/terms.
Generally, licenses or approvals are not necessary for free import, unless the Free Import Order stipulates otherwise (column B in Schedules 1 and 2).
The Free Import Order includes almost all the special terms and/or licensing requirements applicable to import. However, some of the requirements enacted by certain laws and orders have yet to be included in the Order. Therefore, there may be a license requirement for import pursuant a certain law which does not appear in the Free Import Order.
