WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
28 October 2004 
 
 (04-4574) 
Committee on Import Licensing Original:   English 
  
 
 
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES  
 
Notification under Article 7.3 of the
 
Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures1 
 
ICELAND 
 
 The following communication, dated 30 Septembe r 2004, is being circulated at the request of 
the Delegation of Iceland. 
 
_______________ 
 
 
Table of Contents  
 
 
Page 
 
I. AGRICULTURAL GOODS: Animals (Including Birds, Fish and Insects) and 
Animal Products, Feedingstuff, Seeds, Fertilizers, Plants, Plant Products and 
Goods of General Quarantine Concern ..................................................................................2 
II. THERAPEUTIC SUBS TANCES AND GOODS ...................................................................5 
III. NARCOTIC DRUGS PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES AND RELATED 
CHEMICALS...................................................................................................................... ......6 
IV. OZONE PROTECTION ..........................................................................................................8  
V. RADIOACTIVE GOODS ......................................................................................................11 
VI. WEAPONS .................................................................................................................... ..........13 
VII. COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT ....................................................................................16 VIII. MACHINES FO R PUBLIC WORKS...................................................................................17 
IX. HAZARDOUS AND HEALTH-RELATED GOODS .........................................................19 X. SHIPS, BOATS AND FLOATING STRUCTURES............................................................23 
XI. GOODS ORIGINATING IN  CERTAIN COUNTRIES .....................................................24 
 
 
 
                                                     
 
1 See document G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire. G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 2  
 
I. AGRICULTURAL GOODS: Animals, (Including Birds, Fish and Insects) Animal 
Products, Feeding stuffs, Seeds, Fertilizers, Plants, Plant Products and Goods of General 
Quarantine Concern. 
Outline of Systems
 
  
1. According to Icelandic law, the measures regulated under the supervision of the Ministry of 
Agriculture (which controls the importation of an imals, animal products, feed, seeds, fertilizers, 
plants, plant products and goods of ge neral quarantine concern) can be di vided into five categories:   
(a) Measures regarding the importation of live animals  are contained in Act no. 54/1990 on the 
importation of animals, regulation no. 444/1982  on fur farming and the importation of fur-
bearing animals, and regulation no. 431/2003 on  the importation of pets and canine semen.  
The importer must apply to the Minister of Agriculture for an import licence to import live animals. The Minister is authorised to gr ant exemptions to this ban only upon the 
recommendation of the Chief Veterinary Officer (C VO).  In light of Iceland’s special position 
as regards animal diseases, th e CVO assesses whether contagious  agents which are hazardous 
to animals or people can be carried to Iceland w ith the animal in question. Data is principally 
procured from the country of origin in ques tion, i.e. the domestic veterinary regulatory 
authorities, and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), as well as other international organisations d ealing with animal diseases. 
 (b) Measures which apply to import of animal products, soil and other items of general 
concern  are contained in Act no. 25/1993 on animal diseases and prevention thereof and Act 
no. 66/1998 on veterinary services, as well as regulation no. 509/2004 regarding importation 
of animal products, soil and othe r items of general quarantine c oncern. The same procedure as 
regards live animals applies with respect to animal products that  can carry contagious agents 
which are hazardous to animals or people.  In addition, Act no. 87/1995 amending Act no. 
99/1993 on the production, pricing and sale of agri cultural products authorizes the Minister of 
Agriculture to ban the importation of animal pr oducts and plant products  which have been fed 
or given growth-promoting agents and hormones during their growth period. 
(c) Measures on the importation of freshwater fish and other freshwater animals  are 
contained in Act no. 76/1970 on salmon and trout fishing with a cross reference to Act no. 
54/1990 on the importation of live animals.  Therefore, the same procedures apply as regards 
other live animals.  Icelandic legislation and regulations in this field are based on EU 
legislation, according to commitments undertaken under the Agreement establishing the European Economic Area. 
 (d) Measures which apply to all importation of feeds, fertilizers and seeds  are contained in Act 
no. 22/1994 on control of feeds, fertilizers and seed s.  Icelandic legislation and regulations in 
this field are based on EU legislation, according to commitments undertaken under the Agreement establishing the European Economic Area.  The importer notifies the Feed, Seed 
and Fertilizer Inspectorate on a special document before importation of a product, assuming the product has already been registered by th e Feed, Seed and Fertilizer Inspectorate.   
 
(e) Measures which apply to the importation of plants, plant products, soil, and compost for 
mushroom growing  are contained in Act no. 51/1981 on protection against plant diseases 
and pests.  In addition, Ac t no. 87/1995 amending Act no. 99/1993 on the production, pricing 
and sale of agricultural products authorizes the Minister of Agriculture to ban import of animal products and plant produc ts which have been fed or given promoting agents and 
hormones during their growth period. 
  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
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 Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2. Imports under (a) to (e) a bove are generally subject to non-automatic licensing.  Some 
imports under (c) and (d) above are subject to au tomatic licensing.  The measures under (a) above 
apply to all live animals.  Product coverage under (b) above is defined by Article 3 of regulation 
509/2004 on measures to prevent the introduction of an imal diseases and contaminated products.  The 
measures under (c) above apply to all freshwater fish  and animals.  The measures under (d) cover all 
feeds, seeds and fertilizers.  The measures under (e) c over all plants, plant products, soil, and compost 
for mushroom growing.   
3. The same rules apply to all countries for (a) to (e) above. 
4. The purpose of the licensing system is to protect human, animal or plant life or health. 5. The controls on the importation of goods specified in this category are statutory requirements 
under the legislation detailed below: 
- Act no. 54/1990 on importation of animal s and regulation no. 444/1982 on fur-bearing 
animals. 
- Act no.  25/1993 on animal diseases and prevention ther eof, regulation no. 509/2004.  Act no. 
66/1998 on veterinary services. 
- Act no. 76/1970 on salmon and trout fishing. - Act no. 22/1994 on control of feed, fertilizer s and seeds, regulations nos. 340/2001 on control 
of feed, 301/1995 on control of seeds and 39 8/1995 on fertilizers and soil improvers (all 
regulations are based on EU legislation). 
- Act no. 51/1981 on protection against plant diseases and pests, regulation no. 189/1990 on 
import and export of plants and notice no. 110/199 2 on fee for inspections of imported plants. 
  The Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for administration of all the legislation regarding 
live animals, animal products, feed, plants, pl ant products, seeds, seedlings and fertilizers. The 
Ministry of Fisheries is responsible for the legisla tion on treatment of fish products and supervision of 
their production, except monitoring the health of freshwater fish as well as inspection of fish meal, 
fish oil and other marine products used as animal feed.    The legislation does not allow for administrative discretion regarding goods/items subject to 
import controls. It is not possible for the Governme nt or the executive branch to abolish the systems 
without legislative approval.  Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable. 
7.(a) Application for an import licence is mandatory in advance of arrival of the goods imported for 
the first time, to allow time for any necessary ch ecks to be made regarding details supplied 
etc. In certain circumstances import permission can be given for goods which have arrived at 
the point of entry and where no pre-arranged permission is available. 
Prior to importation of all goods under Act No. 22/ 1994, the goods to be imported have to be 
registered with the Feed, Seed and Fertilizer Inspectorate. Following the initial registration, 
each time importation of the registered goods takes place the competent authority has to be 
notified in advance (48 hours for feeding stuffs ) to make inspection possible without delaying 
disembarkation. All changes in the goods fo llowing the initial registration have to be G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 4  
 
registered with the competent authority. A veterinary certificate is required for feeds 
containing products of animal origin. 
(b) In most cases, licenses cannot be granted immediately upon request. (c) Permits may be issued at any time of the year. (d) Application for import permission are submitted to the following Agencies/Ministries: 
 Ministry of Agriculture
: 
 Live animals and their genetic material, fur-b earing animals, animal products and other items 
of general quarantine concern, fresh water fi sh and roes, live ornamental fish and roes, 
compost for mushroom growing.  
 
 Feed, Seed and Fertilizer Inspectorate, Ministry of Agriculture : 
Feed, seed, fertilizers and soil improvers. 
  Agricultural Research Institu te, Ministry of Agriculture
: 
 Plants, plant products, soil. 
 
8. Any refusal of an import license will be based  on a judgment that the importation in question 
poses a risk to human, animal, or plant life or health.   
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence 
  9.(a) Not applicable. 
(b) All persons, firms and institutions ar e eligible to apply for import licenses. 
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10. Applications for registration of goods and/or import licenses must be made in writing to the 
relevant authorities. The form of the application and information required w ill depend on the nature of 
goods to be imported. The importe r should approach the competent authority which has jurisdiction 
over the goods, specifying the details of the animal , animal product or goods to be imported. The 
addresses for correspondence are: 
Ministry of Agriculture      
Sölvhólsgata 7       150 Reykjavík       
Tel: 354 560 9750      
Telefax: 354 552 1160       Feed, Seed and Fertilizer    Agricultural Research Institute 
Inspectorate.      RALA Keldnaholti 
RALA Keldnaholti     112 Reykjavík 
112 Reykjavík      Tel: +354 591 1500 Tel: +354 577 1010     Telefax: +354 591 1566 Telefax: +354 577 1020   11. Necessary documents include official certificates of origin and health. 
12. Where importation requires periods of quarantine or sanitary treatment so as to eliminate the 
risk of entry into Iceland of diseases and pests, the im porter will usually be required to bear the cost of  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 5 
 
 
such action. Specific details of charges may be obt ained on inquiry directed to the appropriate permit-
issuing authority.  Importers of other goods shall b ear all expenses that may be incurred in procuring 
certificates and taking sanitary measures, including sampling and testing deemed necessary by the CVO. 
 The following inspection fees shall be paid for customs clearance: 
- Feed inspection fee, 0,9% of the CIF value. 
- Seed inspection fee, 3,1% of the CIF value - Fertilizer inspection fee, 0,25% of the CIF value. - Plant inspection fee, 1%  and 2 % depending on the tariff number of the CIF value  
13. No. 
Conditions of licensing
 
14. The period of validity of a permit would de pend on the nature of the importation. Specific 
details to be supplied on inquiry. Legislation w ill normally not allow for an extended licence and a 
new shipment requires in most cases a new licence. However, this is not applicable for feed, seed, 
fertilizer and soil improvers where only a registra tion is required and afte r which import of the 
registered goods are permitted.  
15. No. 16. Registration and /or licences are not transferable  and are usually valid for one shipment only, 
except for feed, seed, fertilizer and soil improvers. 
17.(a) not applicable. 
17.(b) No.   
18. No 
 19. No restrictions.  II. THERAPEUTIC SUBSTANCES AND GOODS 
Outline of the system
 
 1. The EU directives concerning medical devices  have been ratified as part of EFTA’s treaty 
with the EU.  National regulations have however not been set yet.  
Therapeutic medicines are not subject to sp ecial import licences except when the active 
ingredients are narcotic drugs or psychotropic subs tances (see following, IV).  They must however 
be registered according to the Pharmaceutical Act no. 93/1994 and Regula tion on the registration 
of proprietary medicinal products and the issui ng of marketing authorisations no. 465/1995 or 
Regulation on the registration of parallel impor ted medicinal products and the issuing of 
marketing authorisations no. 582/1995. 
 G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 6  
 
III. NARCOTIC DRUGS PSYCHOTROPIC SUBSTANCES AND RELATED 
CHEMICALS 
Outline of the system
 
 1. Licences are issued to control the import of specified narcotic drugs, Psychotropic substances 
and related chemicals. This system fulfils Icela nd’s obligation under three United Nations conventions 
in relation to restricting the supply of controlled s ubstances to what is neces sary to meet medical and 
scientific need and preventing diversion to the illicit drug market. 
Purposes and Coverage of licensing
 
 
2. The purpose for licensing is to control trade of narcotic drugs, Psychotropic substances and 
related chemicals according to the ratified United Na tions conventions and cove r all persons or firms 
involved in international trade in those substances .  The drugs covered are substances listed in 
addendum I to Regulation on narc otic substances, psychotropic s ubstances and other controlled 
substances, no. 233 of 2001, with later amendments.  This regulation is set according to provision in 
Article 2 of the Act on controlled substance no. 65 of 1974.  The above named addendum includes the 
drugs and chemicals required to be controlled under the Single Conve ntion on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, 
and the Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971.   Regulation regarding control of substances 
listed in the Convention Against Illicit Traffic in  Narcotic Drugs and Ps ychotropic Substances,1988, 
has not yet been set.  This convention was recently ratified. 
 An exemption applies in the case of a drug that is imported by a passenger on a ship or 
aircraft where the drug: 
 - is required for the medical treatment of the person involved; - was prescribed by a medical practiti oner for the purpose of that treatment; 
- was supplied to the person in accordance  to the prescription in a legal manner. 
 
3.  The system applies to importers of  controlled substance from all countries. 
4. The use of import licences enables the governme nt to restrict and monitor the quantities of 
controlled substances imported and is intended to  prevent over-supply and diversion of same.  The 
system is based on the requirements of the international conventions. 
5. The licensing is maintained by the Act on c ontrolled substances no. 65 of 1974, with later 
amendments,  and the Regulation on narcotic substances, psychotropic substances and other 
controlled substances, no. 233 of 2001,  with later amendments, set by provision in above named act.  
The licensing is statutorily required.  Designation of  products to be subjected to licensing (in addition 
to substances listed in the intern ational conventions) is at administrative discretion.  The system 
cannot be abolished withou t legislative approval. 
Procedures
 
 6. Products under restriction of quantity. 
I. National import limits for substances controlle d by the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 
and some controlled by the Convention on Psychotropic Substances are set by an estimates system administered by the International Narc otics Control Board (INCB) in Vienna.  These 
limits are published regularly for all parties to the conventions.   
Estimates of yearly requirements of Psychotropic drugs not requiring import licence are sent to INCB.  In cases when import licence for a contro lled substance is not required by Icelandic 
regulation, but exporting country regulation dema nds it, such a licence is issued upon request.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 7 
 
 
 II. Not applicable.  III. Import licences are only issued to persons or firm s that have been licensed  by the ministry to 
handle, store or sell controlled substances, issued  by the Minister of Health according to the 
Pharmaceutical Act and the Act on controlled subs tances.  All issued import licences have to be 
accounted for as to actual usage.   Unused licences are deemed invalid.  Names of licensed 
importers are available at the Ministry of Health and Social Security upon request. 
 IV. Not applicable. 
 
V. No limits.  Applications are processed immediately within reasonable handling time. 
 VI. Import licences are valid for 120 days from date of issue.  
VII. The Ministry of Health and Social Security issues import licences upon application.  Import 
licences are issued for each indivi dual shipment without delay if import limits have not been 
exceeded. 
 
The Icelandic Medicines Control Agency validat es documents required for customs handling of 
each shipment of controlled substances.  This  validation is based on the previously issued 
import licence. 
 VIII. First come, first served.  No maximum per app licant within set limits for import.  No special 
provision for new importers.  All applications are processed immediately. 
 
IX. No bilateral quotas.  Export permits from exporting country are not required. 
 X. In cases of exporting country requesting endorse ment of their export permits such endorsement 
is given on a quarterly basis. 
 XI. No re-export of controlle d substances is permitted. 
 
7. When no quantitative limits are in force: 
(a) No limits.  Licences can be issued for goods  arriving without one provided importer has 
licence to handle, store or sell controlled substances. 
(b) Yes. 
(c) No. 
(d) The Ministry of Health and Social Security issues import licences upon application.  Import 
licences are issued for each individual shipment  without delay.  The Icelandic Medicines 
Control Agency validates documents required for customs handling of each shipment of 
controlled substances.  This validation is b ased on the previously issued import licence. 
8. An application may be refused if:  the impor t would be excessive to national requirements;  
and other permission is required but has not been obta ined.  In the event of refusal the applicant is 
notified about the reasons and given opportunity for remedy.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 8  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 9.(a) Any person, firm or institution may apply for a licence.  A licence will only be granted to 
holders of a ministerial licence to handle, stor e and sell controlled substances.  Such licence 
is granted subject to conditions in the Pharma ceutical act and Act on controlled substances 
and applicant is subject to Icelandic Medicin es Control Agency inspections and approval in 
his operations. 
Names of licensed importers are available at th e Ministry of Health and Social Security 
upon request. 
(b) Not applicable. 
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 10. No official form is needed to apply fo r a licence but the following information must be 
submitted: 
- Name and address of importer 
- Name and address of seller (exporter) 
- Name and quantity of controlled substance.  In case of combination product the name and 
quantity of the controlled s ubstance in the combination 
- How the goods are to be transported (airfreight, sea freight, air post, etc.) - What the substance is to be u sed for (medical, research, etc.) 
 
A separate import licence is required for each  shipment of controlled substances. 
 11. The import licence for the particular shipme nt is required validated by the Icelandic 
Medicines Control Agency (in addition to invoice, bill of lading, etc.) 
12-13. No. 
Conditions of licensing
 
 14. An import licence is valid for 120 days from is sue date.  If it not used within that period it 
becomes invalid and is not extended.  If necessary a new licence is issued. 
15-17. No. Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. No. 
19. Yes. No. Yes. A form has to be filled ou t with the name and the ID of the importer. 
IV. OZONE PROTECTION 
 Regulation no. 586/2002, based on EU regula tion no. 2037/2000 on substances that deplete 
the ozone layer, controls import, export, producti on and use of ozone deple ting substances.  This 
regulation replaces older regulations in this fi eld, regulation no. 656/1997 concerning preventive 
measures against ozone-depleting substances.   G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 9 
 
 
Outline of system  
 1.  Regulation no. 586/2002 deals with reduced  quota on import of hydrochlorofluorocarbons  
(HCFCs).  It bans the use of halon 1301 and halon 1211 and use of HCFC for the foam industry.  
Regulation no. 656/1997 established a quota system fo r import of HCFCs.  Administrative approval is 
required prior to import.  Import of other ozone-d epleting substances has been banned; since 1 August 
1993 for halons, since 1 November 1994 for hydrobro mfluorocarbons (HBFCs) and methyl bromide, 
since 1 January 1996 for methyl chloroform and si nce 1 January 1995 for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) 
and carbon tetrachloride.  Import of aerosols cont aining CFC has been banned since 1 January 1990, 
imports of CFC for insulation since 1 January 1994.   Import and sale of limited amount of metered 
dose inhalers containing CFC has been granted on a yearly basis.  
 Administrative approval is required prior to  import of manufactured products that may 
contain ozone-depleting substances such as refri gerators and portable fire extinguishers.  
  The administrative approval required prior to import is called import license in this document 
on Ozone Protection. 
 Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2. Ozone-depleting substances ar e controlled under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that 
deplete the Ozone Layer.  Within Iceland, Regul ation no. 586/2002, earlier Regulation no. 656/1997, 
implements the control agreed by Parties to the Montreal Protocol and by the EC Regulation no. 
2037/2000, earlier regulation no. 3 093/1994, on substances that depl ete the ozone layer.  Import 
licenses have been required for HCFC since April 1995.   
 Import licenses for products that may contai n CFC and halons have  been required since 
1 January 1995, for products that may contain HC FC since 1 January 1996.  Import licenses for 
recycled or reused HCFCs have been required since August 1995.  Now it is only allowed to import 
HCFC as refrigerants.  3. The system applies to goods originating from all countries.  
4. The import licenses for HCFCs are intended to  restrict quantities. Annually we now import 
about 90% the maximum allowable quantities of HC FCs under Regulation no. 586/2002.  There is no 
quota on import of reclaimed HCFC, only virgin HCFC. 
 The import licenses for manufactured products under certain custom codes that may contain 
halon, CFC or HCFC is to ensure that no such goods are imported.   
 The import license for recycled or reused HCFC  is intended to ensure that the substances 
meet minimum requirements for purity, to check on th e country of origin of the substance and also to 
control quantities.  
  Alternative methods have not been adopted, as it would not be consiste nt with international 
legal obligations.  5. Act no. 52/1988 on toxic and hazardous chemical substances. 
 Regulation no. 586/2002, on s ubstances which deplete the ozone layer, articles 5, 6 and 11 
and Annex 2. The licensing is required under Regu lation no. 586/2002.  The system cannot be 
abolished without legislative measures. 
 G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 10  
 
Procedures
 
 6.I. The Environment and Food Agency of Iceland (Umhverfisstofnun) deals directly with known 
importers.  There are only 5 importers, located in the Reykjavik area. The importers can apply for a quota to the Environment and Food Agency of Iceland before December 10th each year 
according to Regulation 586/2002. 
 
The overall amount of allowable virgin HCFC is published in Regulation 586/2002.  The 
amount allocated from each country is not published nor the maximum amount allocated to each importer.  Exceptions can be sought through the Ministry for the Environment. 
 
II. Quotas are allocated on a yearly basis for th e time period 1 January to 31 December.  The size 
of the quota for each importer is determined from each applicants mean import of HCFC five 
previous years before the application. Amount le ft from the total allowable import is divided 
between all applicants based on the prin ciple of equality a nd proportionality. 
 
III.  Not applicable, there is no production of  ozone-depleting substances in Iceland.  Not 
applicable.  No.  Yes. 
 IV.  Any time before 10 December each year for quota for the following year.  
V.  Two weeks. 
 VI.  Theoretically it can be done within the same day.    VII.  Yes, the Environmental and Food Agency of  Iceland.  Not applicable. Not applicable.  No. 
 
VIII.  Past performance, see II above.  Anyone may apply for a license.  Applications are examined 
simultaneously. 
 IX.  There are no such bilateral arrangements.  Not applicable.  
X.  Not applicable. 
 XI.  No.  7.(a) About 1-2 days for import licenses for recycled or reused HCFCs, 1-2 days for import 
licenses for manufactured products that may c ontain HCFC.  About 2-3 weeks for licenses 
given as exceptions from existing ban on import.  Licenses can be given for goods that have 
arrived at the port. 
(b) Yes for import licenses but not for exemptions from existing ban. (c) No, applications can be made any time of year. (d) Yes. The Environmental and Food Agency of  Iceland consider a pplications for import 
licenses. The Ministry for the Environment gr ants licenses given as exemptions.  Approval 
is required from the Environmental and Food Agency of Iceland. No. 
8. If applicants meet criteria, the license is gran ted.  Reasons for refusal would be given to the 
applicant.  The applicant can appeal to the Ministry  for the Environment for review of refusal to issue 
a license.  The decision of the Ministry can be appealed according to the Act no. 37/1993 on 
Administration.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 11 
 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for license  
 
9.(a) Yes. 
(b)  Yes. Documentational and other require ments for application for license
 
 
10.  There is no application form.  The applicant is requested to submit the following information: 
-  name and address of applicant; 
-  amount of substance proposed to import; - the proposed use of substance; 
-  amount imported in the last five years. 
 11.  Standard customs documentation and approva l from the Environmental and Food Agency of 
Iceland. 
12. Yes.  Five hundred Icelandic krona, each time supplies are imported. 
13.  No. 
Conditions of licensing
 
 
14.   For HCFC, one year.  No.  15.  No. 
 
16.  No.  Not applicable.  17. Yes. Trading with countries that are not Par ties to the Montreal Protocol is prohibited.  
Reporting requirements apply to all licenses. 
Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. No. 
 
19. Yes.  No.  Yes.  A form has to be filled out  with the name and ID number of the applicant. 
 V. RADIOACTIVE GOODS 
 Icelandic Radiation protection Act no. 44/2002. 
 Regulations relating to the use of uns hielded radioactive sources, no. 809/2003 
 Regulations relating to the use of shie lded radioactive source, no. 811/2003. 
 
Outline of system
 
 1.  The import of radioactive material and goods  containing radioactive material is prohibited 
under the provisions of the Radiation Protection Act no. 44/2003 unless a permit of the Icelandic 
Radiation Protection Institute is granted. G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 12  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing
 
 2.  The goods covered include any radioactive ma terial or substance except for radio luminous 
watches, pocket compasses, meters and other equipmen t of that nature containing a slight quantity of 
radioactive materials pending further decisions of the Icelandic Radiation Protection Institute 
(guidelines GR01:01, Exceptions limits for radioactive materials). 
3.  The legislation applies to importation of goods from all countries. 4.  The importation of radioactive substances is regulated as a community (environment and 
health) protection measure and to comply with Icel and’s international obligations. A monetary value 
is not a criterion for control. 
5.  The control on importation of the specifi ed goods is a statutory requirement under the 
Regulations relating to the use of unshielded ra dioactive sources, no. 809/2003 and Regulations 
relating to the use of shielded radioactive sour ce, no. 811/2003, under the Icelandic Radiation 
Protection Act no. 44/2002.  The system cannot be abolished without legislative approval. 
Procedures
 
 
6.  Not applicable. 
7. (a) Application should be made in advance of arrival of the goods. 
(b) Permits can be issued immediately in case of  medicine containing very short-lived radio 
nuclides. 
(c) Permits may be issued at any period of the year. 
(d) The Icelandic Radiation Protection Institute gr ants a permit. Application to import radioactive 
materials or articles containing radioactive materi als must be made to the Icelandic Radiation 
Protection Institute. 
8.  Application for permission to import can be refused if intended use is not in accordance with 
the Icelandic Radiation Protection Act.  
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 9.(a)  Not applicable. 
(b)  All persons, firms and institutions are e ligible to apply for permission to import. 
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10.  For permit to import applications must be  made in writing to the Icelandic Radiation 
Protection Institute using a special form providing  information, such as, on importers name and 
address, details of the goods to be imported and where the goods are to be used, etc. 
11. The written permission is required to be produced upon importation. 
12-13.   No.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
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Conditions of licensing  
 
14.  Permits apply to one consignment in most cases.  Permits can be issued that are valid for one 
year and are renewed upon appropria te annual report to the Icelandi c Radiation Protection Institute 
regarding all imports in the previous year. 
15-16.  No. 
17.(a)  Not applicable. (b)  Intended use of radioactive material must be in accordance with the Icelandic Radiation 
Protection Act no. 44/2002. Those who have been granted a permit to import radioactive 
material are only allowed to sell, hire out, le nd or hand over by some other means the relevant 
material to parties that have got a permit from the Icelandic Radiation Protection Institute to 
use and/or operate them. 
Other procedural requirements
 
 18. No. 
19. Yes. No. Yes.  A form has to be filled out with the name and ID number of   the importer. 
VI. WEAPONS 
Outline of the system
 
 1.  According to Icelandic law, measures to regulate and control importation of firearms and other assault devices can be divided into three categories. First and foremost are measures explicitly 
stated in the Weapons Act, no. 16/1998. Secondly,  measures explicitly stated in the Firearms and 
Ammunition Regulations no. 787/1998, with sub sequent amendments. Thirdly, administrative 
measures, not explicitly stated in statutes. The la w, nevertheless requires that such measures have 
sufficient grounds. Furthermore, each individual admi nistrative decision made according to the above-
mentioned measures, is subject to procedural rules laid down in the Administrative Act no. 37/1993.  
 Weapons in this respect are a ll arms intended to fire projectiles. At the relevant Minister’s 
discretion the scope of the Act can be extended to include assault devices other than firearms. This has 
been done with the regulations, with regard to lite rally all things manufactured for offensive purposes; 
including knives with blade longer than 12 cm. Rea listic replicas of firearms are included as well. 
 Excluded from the scope of this system are weapons  imported for the police and the Coast Guard. On 
the other hand, the Act allows the responsible Mini ster to extend the scope to certain categories of 
commercial products, i.e. construction equipment using compressed air to fire nails, emergency 
gadgetry, i.e. lifeline guns and signal guns and pin guns used for animal slaughtering. The last 
category is currently the only one to fall unde r import limitation stated in the Regulations. 
 
The main provision of the system is a near-complet e ban on the importation of automatic firearms and 
all things manufactured for offensive purposes. Semi -automatic and other firearms are subject to 
import limitations as described below. 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 
2. Licensing systems are applied in four channe ls open for lawful importation of weapons to 
Iceland: G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 14  
 
- Purchase by private persons and their importation upon arrival from abroad. -   Long-distance sale to private persons by mail order. - Short-term import by foreign visitors. - Commercial importation by registered firearm vendors.   
 Weapons covered by all licensing arrangements are: 
  - Firearms and parts of firearms. - Ammunition for firearms.  
3. The licensing procedures are the same regardl ess of countries of origin or from which the 
goods are imported. 
4. The purpose of licensing is to ensure read y control of the number, characteristics and 
distribution of weapons.  Such a regulation is need ed in the public interests to prevent that these 
weapons are used offensively. Furt hermore it is government policy to r estrict proliferation of weapons 
in certain classes, especially pistols and larger rifles . The monetary value of imports is not a criterion 
for control. 
 No other alternative methods have been suggest ed that could meet these criteria, which is a 
prerequisite for the effectiveness of licen sing individual use and possession of weapons. 
5. The Weapons Act no. 16/1998 requires licensing of firearms. Licensing of other weapons and 
products mentioned before (under reply 1) is optional but has been partially enacted in the 
Regulations. Express legislative consent is need ed in order to abolish the licensing system. 
Procedures
 
 6. Not applicable.  
7.  The application procedure is basically th e same for all the four following categories: 
(a)       Application is best ma de before attempt is made to bring into the country weapons subjected to 
an import permit. Circumstances allowing, these permits will be issued if the goods in question have inadvertently arrived at the point of entry. 
(b)        As a rule, permits are only granted when  the relevant application has been scrutinised. This 
sometimes involves correspondence with local auth orities. If haste is paramount, the time this 
process takes can be cut. 
(c)         Permits are issued regardless of season. (d)      According to the Weapons Act, it co mes under the Commissioner of the Icelandic Police to 
issue import permits.  
8. Applications for import permits can be refused  at the discretion of the Commissioner of the 
Icelandic Police. According to the 1993 Administrative Act, reasons for refusal must be given if 
requested by the applicant. In practice the signifi cant grounds for refusal are given without delay. The 
most common grounds for refusal are lack of information and/or evidence of improper handling of firearms by the applicant. A frequent reason for refusa l in the case of private persons is also failure to 
meet the ordinary criteria for the possession of firearms, i.e. skill and other qualifications.  
The right to appeal is to the Ministry of Jus tice and to the courts. A complaint can also be 
lodged with the Ombudsman of the Parliament.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 15 
 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 9.(b)   All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for import permits. 
 Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10.  In the case when a decision is made to gran t registered firearm vendors an import permit, the 
following information must be made available to the Commissioner of the Icelandic Police for the 
proper form to be issued. 
  -  Name and address of the importer 
  -  Name and address of the supplier (exporter) 
  -  Exact description of the weapons to be imported   -  Exact quantity of weapons to be imported   -  The unique number of the application (issued on receipt by the Ministry)  
In practice, the Commissioner of the Icelandic Po lice generally issues a statement of eligibility for 
imports, alongside the initial registration of the firearm vendor. The vendor may therefore expect a 
positive reply to his application unless there has been a change of conditions.  11. Immediately prior to actual importation the vendor  must present customs clearing papers to 
the competent local police officer along with a c opy of the import permit. The officer then 
validates with a signature, that the weapons to be imported are in accordance with the permit. 
The officer keeps a copy of the customs papers  for future reference, e.g. if the permitted 
quantity is to be imported in steps. The cu stoms officer, having received the signed papers, 
then hands over the goods.  
12. 12-13. No. 
 
Conditions of licensing
 
 14. As a rule the permits are valid for six mont hs.  The validity can be extended if the police 
officer in charge accepts such an extension. The permit is always limited to the stated goods only and 
cannot be extended. 
15. No. 
16. Permits are issued to a certain vendor and cannot be transferred to another one. 
17. Such conditions arise directly from the law,  regarding the custody, use, disposal and 
distribution of the imported goods. 
Other procedural requirements
 
 
18.  No. 
19.  Yes. No. Yes. A form has to be filled out with the name and the ID number of the importer. 
 G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 16  
 
VII. COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT 
Outline of systems
 
 1. For the import of telecommunication equipment including radio, the licensing system is based 
upon equipment having a CE marking in accordance with the Terminal Directive 1999/5/EC of the 
European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 1999, on radio equipment and 
telecommunications terminal equipment and the mutu al recognition of their conformity, to confirm 
that it fulfills the appropriate requirements pertai ning to telecommunications equipment within the 
European Economic Area.  A national licensing procedur e is not required.  This applies to:  all types 
of radio equipment that have not been specifically  excepted;  and all subscriber equipment, i.e. 
telecommunication equipment that is connected or can be connected to  public telecommunications 
networks. 
  
Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 
2. The licensing system applies to radio equipm ent and non-radio equipment connected to public 
telecommunication networks. 
3. The system applies to goods irrespective of country of origin. 4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity and value of imports. The purpose of the 
system is to ensure that technical requireme nts are met including electromagnetic compatibility. 
5. The licensing is maintained under the law on telecommunications no. 81/2003 and the 
regulation on CE marking no. 589/1994. Licensing is  required by the law on telecommunications. The 
legislation does not leave designation of products to administrative discretion. The law cannot be 
abolished except with the express approval of the legislature. 
Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable. 
7.(a)  There is no need for an application procedure. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions may import without a prior application for an individual 
licence.  
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence  
11. At actual importation the appropriate cust om forms must be completed and invoices 
presented. 
Conditions of licensing  
 
Not applicable 
  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 17 
 
 
Other procedural requirements  
 18. In some cases allocation of a frequency/fre quencies for radio equipment may need to be 
obtained prior to equipment utilising th ose frequencies being taken into use. 
19. Payment for import of foreign goods is not w ithin the jurisdiction of the telecom authorities. 
VIII. MACHINES FOR PUBLIC WORKS 
Outline of the system
 
 1.  According to Regulation no. 388/1989, Directors of Customs are unauthorised to clear through customs new or used mobile or other cons truction machinery, which are subject to the said 
Regulation, prior to a declaration in relation thereto issued by the Administration of Occupational 
Safety and Health. At present the process is as follows:   The importer shall apply for the registration of  each mobile and the construction machinery he 
or she intends to import by filling in a special a pplication form. The Administration of Occupational 
Safety and Health then allocates a specific registration number to the machinery, writes the number 
down on the application form which is then return ed to the importer. In most cases this will be 
accomplished by the use of a fax-machine and the app lication will thus be dealt with in few minutes. 
By then the Administration of Occupational Safety and Health has fulfilled its task concerning the 
customs registration of the machinery. Subsequent to the registration of the machinery the Administration of Occupational Safety and Health w ill inspect all machinery subject to inspection in 
accordance with Regulation no. 388/1989, and at pr esent this means that the machinery's compliance 
with the requirements of Regulation no. 761/2 001 on Machinery and Technical Equipment will be 
checked.  Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 
2. This procedure concerns the following cat egories of machinery lis ted in the Annex to 
Regulation no. 388/1989:   Tower cranes, mobile cranes bigger than 18 MT , overhead cranes, cranes smaller than 18 MT, 
excavators heavier than 4,000 kg., wh eel loaders, bulldozers, motor grades, industrial tractors, forklift 
truck < 10 MT capacity, forklift truck > 10 MT ca pacity, compactors, asphalt pavers, drilling rigs, 
grinding and screening installations, mobile work platforms.  3. No distinction is made as to the questi on of origin provided the machinery meets the 
requirements of Regulation no. 761/2 001, containing, inter alia, provis ions regarding CE-labelling and 
declaration of conformity. 
 4. The said procedure serves the sole purpose of  compiling a list of the machinery, subject to 
inspection in accordance with Regulation no. 388/1989, in  order to facilitate its subsequent registration 
and inspection. This procedure does not impose any import restrictions, except those referred to in 
answer No. 3. Since the procedure has produced very  good results and no complaints have been filed, 
there has been no reason to replace it. 
 5. The Act on Working Conditions and Occupational Health and Safety no. 46 of 28 May 1980;  
Regulation on Registration and Inspect ion of Mobile and Other Constr uction Machinery no. 388/1989;  
Regulation on Machinery and Technical Equipment no. 761/2001.  No.  Yes. 
 G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 18  
 
Procedures
 
 6. There are no restrictions on quantity or value. 7.(a) No time limits have been set concerning the application for registration of the machinery. The 
importer may apply for registration at his or her convenience. 
 
(b) Yes.  
(c) No such limits. (d) The application form signed by the Administra tion of Occupational Safety  and   Health, thus 
confirming the registration of the machinery,  serves subsequently as a document when the 
importer clears the machinery through custom s with the customs authorities in question. 
8. Registration is never refused. Where informa tion on the application form is insufficient or 
incorrect, the importer in question is contacted and th e application jointly adjusted and then taken care 
of. 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 
9. No demands are made as to who applies for registration of the machinery.  Documentational and other requirements for application of licence
 
 10. All new machines for public works and change of ownership of older machines must be 
registered at the Administration of Occupational Sa fety and Health.  In the case of a new model, a 
declaration of conformity is requested in accordance with Regulation no. 761/2001. 
  Information required for the registration, ar e: registration number (licence plate number), 
name, address and ID number of owner and former  owner, type of equipment, production year, 
production country, production number, weight of machine, size of engine, horsepower, name of 
insurance company, lifting capab ilities (for cranes and fork lift trucks) and type of fuel used. 
 11. None.   12. A registration fee amounting USD 30 is collected. The registration fee and the fee charged for 
the first inspection of the machin ery are collected simultaneously. 
13. No. 
 Conditions of licensing
 
 
14. No period of validity has been determined. 
 15. The machinery will not be cleared thro ugh customs unless a signed application for 
registration is at hand. 
16-17. No.    
 
Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. No. 
 19. Yes, No, Yes. A form has to be filled out w ith the name and the ID number of the importer.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 19 
 
 
IX. HAZARDOUS AND HEALTH-RELATED GOODS 
(a) Act no. 52/1988 on toxic and hazardous ch emical substances, with amendments. 
(b) Regulation no. 137/1987 on the use and restric tions on use of certain toxic and hazardous 
substances and preparations, with  amendments no. 610/1987.  
(c) Regulation no. 870/2002 prohibiting the import and use of asbestos   
(d) Rules in respect of chrome content in cement no. 330/1989.   
(e) Regulation no. 748/2003 concerning cosmetics. 
(f) Regulation no. 236/1990 relating to the classi fication, labelling and handling of dangerous 
substances and preparations with amendments  no. 348/1990, 664/1 997, 766/1997, 459/1998, 
460/1998, 500/1998, 639/1998, 77/1999, 150/1999, 548/1999, 754/1999, 613/2000, 921/2000, 
380/2001, 197/2002 and 579/2002 
(g) Rules no. 520/1991 on the import, production and marketing of toys containing lead. 
Regulation no. 619/2000 on the prohibiti on of the use of chemicals that contain mercury, arsenic and 
organic tin compounds (tributyltin), with amendment no. 878/2002.   
(h) Regulation no. 323/1998 regarding the import,  use and disposal of PCBs, PCTs and 
substitutes which are dangerous to the environment.   
(i) Regulation no. 615/1999 on the restriction on ma rketing of lamp oils, ornamental objects, 
toys, jokes and hoaxes which contain certain chemicals.  
(j) Regulation no. 903/2002 with amendment no. 6 12/2003 on the use and the prohibition of use 
of certain chemicals in paints and for treatment of wood.  
(k) Regulation no. 447/1996 on the use and the prohibition of use of cadmium and its 
compounds.  
(l) Regulation no. 744/2003 on the use and the prohibition of use of certain substances in the 
treatment of textile articles.  
(m) Regulation no. 857/1999 on the pr ohibition of use of certain t oxic and dangerous  substances, 
with amendments no. 623/2000 and 483/2002.  
(n) Regulation no. 946/1999 on ba tteries and accumulators containing certain dangerous 
substances. 
(o) Regulation no. 50/1984 on the u se of dangerous substances and preparations in agriculture 
and gardening, with amendments no. 213/1984, 235/1986 and 461/2001.  
(p) Register of approved insecticides, herbicid es, growth regulators and rodenticides 
no. 19/2003/L. 
(q) Regulation no. 196/2000 on restriction on the manuf acture, import and distribution of toys 
containing phthalates. 
(r) Regulation no. 464/2001 regarding restri ction on nickel in certain products. G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 20  
 
(s) Regulation no. 396/2003 relating to restriction on the use of certain substances in motor 
vehicles. 
(t) Regulation no. 635/2003 relating to restriction on the use of short chain chlorinated paraffin’s. 
(u) Regulation no. 872/2003 relating to restriction on the marketing and use of nonylphenol and 
nonylphenolethoxylates. 
(v) Notice no. 940/2000 on entry into force of EEA regulations concerning the export and import 
of dangerous chemicals. 
Outline of the system
 
 1.  The import of certain goods, which are a threat  to consumer welfare, human health and safety 
or threat to the environment, is prohibited unde r the provisions of the act no. 52/1988 on toxic and 
hazardous chemical substances and the above-men tioned regulations unless specified conditions, 
restrictions or requirements are complied with.   
 For some goods administrative approval or import licence is required prior to each import in 
other cases open administrative approval is given wit hout any limits. Conditions for marketing may be 
labelling requirement and/or restrictions regarding sale and use of the goods.    
 Purposes and coverage of licensing
 
 2.  To ensure safe handling of the goods and to keep control on the quantities imported and used.    
 The following goods are included in the system.  References relate to laws and regulations 
mentioned above: 
 
Toxic substances and preparations classified according to Regulation no. 236/1990 (f); (a) 
Import licence is requested for each shipment. Pesticides, insecticides, rodenticides, and mollusci cides; (a), (p), (q) The product has to be 
registered – Import licence is requested for each shipment. 
Disinfectants; (a), (b) Approval has to be gi ven from the Environmental and Food Agency. 
Methanol; (a), (b) Import licence is required for each shipment. Aerosols containing toxic substances and certain other hazardous substances classified 
according to Regulation no. 236/1990 (f); (n) Ma y not be imported or placed on the market for 
sale to the general public. 
Aerosol generators intended for entertainmen t or decorative purposes containing substances 
classified as flammable according to Regulation no. 236/1990 (f); (j) May not be imported or placed on the market for sale to the general public. Cosmetics containing substances listed in A nnex 2, Regulation no. 748/2003(e) or other 
colouring agents, preservatives or UV filters than those listed in annexes 4-6 to Regulation no. 
748/2003;  (e) May not be imported or placed on the market. 
Paint and colours containing >1% of toxic subs tances classified according to Regulation no. 
236/1990 (f), paint containing cadmium, ca dmium compounds, specified lead carbons or 
sulphates (k);  (b) May not be imported or placed on the market for sale to the general public, (k) Import is prohibited, exemptions can be granted in special cases. Asbestos; (c) Import is prohibited, exemp tions can be granted in special cases. 
PCB’s, PCT’s, Ugelec 141, Ugelec 121 (Ugelec 21) and DBBT, equipment containing 
aforementioned substances; (i)  Import is prohibited, exemptions can be granted in special 
cases. Cement containing water-soluble chrome (Cr+6) 2 mg/kg dry cement; (d) Import is prohibited, 
exemptions can be granted in special cases.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 21 
 
 
Toys containing lead; (g) Import licen ce is requested for each shipment. 
Toys containing >5 mg/kg benzene; (j) Ma y not be imported or placed on the market. 
Coloured or perfumed lamp oil classified as dangerous according to Regulation No. 
236/1990(f) and assigned the risk phrase R65 Harmful:  may cause lung damage if swallowed;  (j) May not be placed on the market unless in packaging  15 litres. 
Ornamental objects, games, tricks and jokes may not contain liquid substa nces or preparations, 
which are regarded dangerous according to Regul ation no. 236/1990 (f);  (i) jokes and hoaxes 
with certain ingredients listed in Regulation 61 5/1999; (j) May not be imported or placed on the 
market. Antifouling substances, paint and other products, intended to  prevent fouling by micro-
organisms, plants or animals on the hulls of boa ts and on other appliances or equipment totally 
or partly submerged, containing mercury (Hg) , arsenic (As) or organic tin compounds; (h) 
Import and use is prohibited. Wood preservativ es; (a) Approval has to be given from the 
Environmental and Food Agency; (k) Import and use of wood preservatives with mercury is 
prohibited, special conditions are bound to th e use of arsenate in wood preservatives. 
Plastic products coloured by cadmium or its  compounds and products of vinyl chloride 
polymers stabilised by cadmium or its com pounds if cadmium exceeds 0,01% by mass of the 
material, cadmium plated metallic products; (l) Impo rt is prohibited, exemptions can be granted 
in special cases. Textile articles intended for clothing containing specific flame retarding materials, heavy-duty 
industrial textiles impregnated with mercury compounds or textiles intended for clothing or 
decorative furnishings impregnated with PCP a nd clothing colored with azodyes; (m) May not 
be imported or placed on the market. Certain pesticides and other chemicals, which are hazardous to human health or the environment, listed in Regulation 857/1999; (n ) Import is prohibited, exemptions can be 
granted in special cases. 
Batteries containing >0.0005% mercury except fo r button cells containing >2% mercury (w/w); 
(o) May not be imported or placed on the market. Toys and childcare products intended for childre n under the age of three may not be imported 
or placed on the market if they contain phthalates (r). Metal objects made of nickel, which may come into contact with human skin may not be 
imported or placed on the market (s). 
Certain objects in motorised vehicles and parts thereof may not contain mercury, cadmium, 
lead or hexavalent chromium (t). Short chain chlorinated paraffin’s are prohibited in metal industry, leather liquoring, in plasticizers and flame retardants (u). Nonylphenol and nonylphenolethoxylates may not be  put on the market or used in substances 
or constituents of preparations for various industrial purposes (v). 
Certain pesticides and hazardous industrial chem icals may not be exported or imported unless 
an approval has been given by the authorities in the importing country (w). 
  3.  The system applies to goods originating from all countries.  
 
4. The import of these goods is regulated as a pr otection measure.  Goods included are known to 
be associated with particular public health or saf ety hazards, hazards for the environments or other 
concerns which warrant restriction or prohibition of their use.  The monetary value is not a criterion 
for control.  Alternative methods have not been adopted, as it would in most cases not be consistent 
with legal obligations. 
5. The control on importation of the specified goo ds is a statutory requirement under the law and 
regulations mentioned above  under IX: HAZARDOUS AND HEALTH-RELATED GOODS and 
according to the Act no. 7/1998 on hygiene a nd environmental control and Act no. 134/1995 on 
product safety.   The system cannot be abolished without legislative measures. G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 22  
 
Procedures
 
 6. Not applicable. 
7.(a) Usually 1-3 days for import licences, 2-4 weeks for licences given as exceptions from existing 
ban on import.  In special cases licences can be given within a shorter time limit.  Licences 
can be given for goods that have arrived at the port. 
 (b) In special cases import licences can be issued  promptly.  Exemptions from existing ban can 
not be given immediately. 
(c) Applications can be made any time of year. 
(d) The Environmental and Food Agency considers applications for import licences. The Ministry 
for the Environment grants licences given as exemptions. Approval is required from the 
Environmental and Food Agency.  No. 
8. If application meets criteria, the licence is gran ted.  Reasons for refusal would be given to the 
applicant.  The applicant can appeal to the Ministry  for the Environment for review of refusal to issue 
a licence.  The decision of the Ministry can be appealed according to the Act on Public 
Administration. 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 9.(a) Yes, but in certain cases import licences ar e restricted to those having licence to use or 
marked the relevant products. 
(b) Yes. 
Documentational and other require ments for application for licence
 
 
10. There is no application form.  The applicant is  requested to submit the following information: 
- name and address of applicant; 
- name and location of the manufacture of the goods; 
- detail information of the product to be imported; - amount of substance proposed to import; and  - the proposed use of the product.  11. Standard customs documentation and approval from The Environmental and Food Agency of 
Iceland. 
12-13.  No. 
 
Conditions of licensing
 
 
14.  Import licences apply only to the import of the stated goods.  Open licences are given fore 
some goods; licences for import of specific amount of goods that are exempted from registration are valid for 6 months.  No. 
15. No. 16. No.  Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 23 
 
 
17.(b)   Pesticides, rodenticides and insecticides have to be registered.  Other procedural requirements
 
 
18. No. 
19. Yes.  No.  Yes.  A form has to be filled out  with the name and ID number of the applicant. 
X. SHIPS, BOATS AND FLOATING STRUCTURES 
Outline of the system  
 1. All ships, boats and floating structures, which are imported to Iceland, have to be approved by 
the Icelandic Maritime Administration, hereinafter referred to as “IMA”.  The approval is made by 
inspections of vessels, their documents and in some  cases approval of their drawings prior to import 
and registration.  All ships, boats and floating st ructures of 6 meters in length and over shall be 
registered.  The right to register a ship, a boat or a floating structure is limited to Icelandic citizens or 
companies with a legal residence in  Iceland. This right also appli es to citizens of the EEA Member 
States. Ships, boats and floating structures used for fishing may only be registered by persons who are 
Icelandic citizens and have legal residence in Icela nd and companies registered in Iceland, which are 
fully in the ownership of Icelandic citiz ens with legal residence in Iceland. 
Purpose and coverage of licensing
 
 2. No licensing system, as such, is maintained. With  regard to import of ships, boats and floating 
structures, the importer applies to IMA for a permis sion to import. After a survey of drawings and 
other documents and an inspection on board the importe r is either granted the permission or rejected. 
3. The regulations apply to importation from all countries. 4. The purpose is to maintain a certain standard  of safety and pollution prevention of Icelandic 
ships, boats and floating structures. No alternativ e methods have been considered with regard to 
import licensing. 
5. Act no. 47/2003 on control of ships applies to import of ships, boats and floating structures. 
The licensing is statutory required. The legislati on does not leave the designation of products to be 
subjected to licensing to administrative description.   It is not possible for the government or the 
executive branch to abolish the system without legislative approval. 
Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable for Iceland. 
7.(a) In Iceland there are no regulation specify ing a maximum or minimum time limit for an 
application. 
(b) No; see replies 1 and 2. 
(c) No. 
(d) Customs Authorities must approve the importati on of ships, boats and floating structures as 
other importation of any goods into the country. If the ship or the boat is designed for fishing within the Icelandic 200-mile fishing limit, the ship must obtain a fishing quota either through G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
Page 24  
 
purchase or rent. The Ministry for Fisheries has to approve the transfer of the quota to the ship 
or the boat. 
8. None. The reason for refusal sh all be given to the applicant. In case of IMA, the applicant has 
the right to appeal to the Ministry of Trans port and Communication according to Act. No. 47/2003. 
The applicant also has the right  to appeal to the courts. 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence
 
 9. There is no system for registration of persons or firms permitted to engage in importation. For 
persons or firms eligible see reply 1.  There is a registration fee.  There is no published list of 
authorised importers. 
Documentational and other requireme nts for applications for licence
 
 10. The importer must submit to the IMA, drawings  and other documents related to safety, labour 
matters and pollution prevention. There is no specific form for an application. 
11. The buyer must submit to the IMA the Bill of Sale and, if applicable, a document confirming 
that the ship, the boat or the floating structur e has been deleted from the former registry. 
12. Yes;  the amount depends on the type of the ty pe of the ship, the boat or the floating structure 
and ranges from USD 50 to USD 120. In addition, th e buyer has to pay a special survey fee which 
depends on the costs involved. Finally the buyer has to pay a stamp fee of 0.4% of the price of the 
ship, the boat or the floating structure. 
13. No. 
Conditions of licensing
 
 14. There is no maximum period of validity of im port licences specified. However, if the time 
from the issue of licence to the actual registrati on is abnormally long, another survey might be 
required. 
15. No. 
16-17. See reply 1. Other procedural requirements
 
 18. No. 
19. Yes. No. Yes. An application form with the name and ID number of the applicant has to be 
filled out at the exchange. Foreign exchange is  available without any restrictions at all. 
XI. GOODS ORIGINATING IN CERTAIN COUNTRIES 
Act no. 5/1969 on the Implementation of Unite d Nations Security Council’s Resolutions. 
 Outline of the system
 
 
1. Import sanctions exist on goods originating in  certain countries. These sanctions are set 
according to ACT no. 5/1969 to implement UN Security Council’s Resolutions.  G/LIC/N/3/ISL/3 
 Page 25 
 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
 2. Currently import sanctions are in force on all rough diamonds from Liberia. 
3. See reply 2. 4. The importation of the goods are regulated in accordance with I celand’s international 
obligations. 
5. The import control is based on Act. no. 5/ 1969 on the Implementation of the United Nations 
Security Council’s Resolutions.  This act ca nnot be amended without legislative approval. 
Procedures
 
 
6. Not applicable. 
7. The Government’s announcement for sanctions  against certain countries usually gives no 
possibilities to apply for exemption.  
8-19. Not applicable. 
 
__________