Navigating Israeli Import Rules in 2026
Shopping from US-based retailers offers access to a massive variety of products, but for Israeli residents, the excitement can be dampened by unexpected fees at the border. Understanding the tax brackets and thresholds is the best way to ensure your cross-border shopping experience remains affordable. Whether you are using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway or shipping through other means, this cheat sheet will help you calculate your costs accurately.
The De Minimis Threshold: The $75 Rule
In 2026, Israel continues to maintain a relatively generous de minimis threshold for personal imports. If the value of your shipment (excluding shipping and insurance costs) is under $75 USD, your package is exempt from all import taxes. This includes Value Added Tax (VAT), Customs Duty, and Purchase Tax.
Pro Tip: Ensure that the value of the goods is clearly marked on the invoice. If you are unsure about how specific items are valued, you can check our FAQ for more details on documentation and customs declarations.
The VAT Threshold: $75 to $500
Once your order value exceeds $75 but remains below $500, the tax landscape changes. In this bracket, you are generally exempt from Customs Duty, but you are required to pay VAT (Value Added Tax). As of 2026, the standard VAT rate in Israel is 17%.
For example, if you purchase a pair of high-end sneakers for $150, you will likely pay $25.50 in VAT upon arrival. While this adds to the cost, it is often still cheaper than buying locally, provided you estimate shipping costs to Israel beforehand to ensure the total price fits your budget.
High-Value Imports: Over $500
For shipments valued at over $500, the full suite of taxes applies. This includes:
- VAT: 17% of the total value.
- Customs Duty: Rates vary depending on the product category (typically ranging from 0% to 12%).
- Purchase Tax: Applied to specific items like electronics, automotive parts, and luxury goods.
Quick Reference Tax Table
| Shipment Value (USD) | VAT (17%) | Customs Duty | Purchase Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $0 - $74.99 | Exempt | Exempt | Exempt |
| $75 - $499.99 | Required | Exempt* | Exempt* |
| $500 and Above | Required | Required | Required* |
*Note: Certain items like tobacco, alcohol, and specific electronics may carry different rules regardless of value.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
One of the most frequent mistakes shoppers make is splitting orders to stay under the $75 limit. If two or more packages from the same sender arrive at the Israeli customs office for the same recipient within 72 hours, they may be consolidated and taxed as a single shipment. To avoid this, space out your orders by at least a few days.
Additionally, always remember that the $75 threshold is based on the value of the goods only. However, if your package exceeds $75, the VAT and duties are often calculated based on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value. This is why it is critical to Get a Quote for your shipping fees early in the process.
Final Thoughts for 2026 Shoppers
The Israeli customs system is efficient but strict. By keeping your personal imports under the $75 mark, you can enjoy tax-free shopping from your favorite American brands. For larger purchases, factoring in the 17% VAT and potential duties will prevent any "sticker shock" when your package reaches the border. If you have more common questions regarding restricted items or specific shipping procedures, feel free to visit our support center.
