International travel with your dog (or cat) is quite complicated and it is generally recommended to leave your dog at home when traveling to Iceland. The requirements for bringing your dog to Iceland can be quite strict and include multiple forms, an import application fee, and 4 weeks of quarantine.
Keep in mind that completing these various vaccinations and forms can take several months, so if you want to bring your cat or dog to Iceland, plan ahead.
The process
Import applications for dogs and cats are available from the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority. After the application has been submitted with health tests and treatments, it will likely be approved within 2-3 weeks. Then you have to take care of the import fee (around 20,000 ISK) and schedule quarantine in Iceland for your dog or cat.
It is important to read all the requirements regarding necessary vaccinations (eg rabies, parvo, distemper), exams, medical treatment, etc. as some must be completed before taking your dog to Iceland. The blank form for the Certificate of Health and Origin by the Icelandic Veterinary Director is the only certificate that will be accepted.
Please note that Iceland renews its animal import regulations every year. By the time you travel, there may be slight procedural changes for the dogs. Always check for official updates before bringing your dog to Iceland.
Dogs are not popular pets in Iceland and are actually prohibited in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
No help for travelers
Unfortunately, there are no short-term permits available to bring your dog to Iceland for a short vacation; All the above documentation is intended for people moving to Iceland permanently. It is surely a lot of work to take your dog on a 2 week trip. It is not very practical to do this in Iceland and it is not advised to subject your pet to it as it will cause more stress to the animal (and you) than it might be worth. Rather, consider leaving your dog (or cat) at home with friends or family to keep an eye on.
The reunion between you and the animal after your trip will be much sweeter, that’s for sure.
You can also consider one of the countries that are friendlier to dogs than Iceland, including Denmark or Sweden.
