The certification process in Israel often takes time: preparing documents, laboratory testing, and regulatory approvals. For manufacturers and importers, delays can mean postponed deliveries, frozen contracts, and financial losses. However, there are practical steps that can significantly reduce the certification timeline.
Main Causes of Delays
Before discussing acceleration strategies, it is important to understand common bottlenecks:- incomplete documentation;
- errors in labeling and translations;
- using non-accredited laboratories;
- inconsistencies between international and Israeli standards;
- starting certification too late (after contracts are signed or production begins).
1. Start Early
Begin certification 3–6 months before import. This allows time for testing, adjusting documentation, and preparing packaging.
2. Leverage International Certificates
If you already have ISO, CE, FDA, or other international certifications, submit them to the Standards Institution of Israel (SII). They may not exempt you from local checks but can reduce testing requirements.
3. Accurate Translation of Documents
All documents must be prepared in English and Hebrew. Translation errors are among the most common reasons for rejection or delays.
4. Work Only with Accredited Bodies
Ensure laboratories and certification centers are officially recognized by SII or the Israeli Ministry of Health. Otherwise, procedures may need to be repeated.
5. Have a Local Representative
Regulators in Israel communicate more quickly with companies that have a local partner or official representative. This simplifies communication and speeds up document processing.
6. Correct Labeling from the Start
Prepare packaging and instructions immediately according to Israeli requirements:
- Hebrew translation;
- product composition, country of origin, shelf life;
- special marks (e.g., kosher for food products).
Some steps can be done simultaneously: e.g., product testing and label preparation. This can save weeks or even months.
Conclusion
Certification in Israel can be complex, but with proper planning and attention to detail, the process can be accelerated. The key to success is thorough preparation, working with accredited experts, and leveraging existing international certificates.WorldWideBridge helps manufacturers and importers complete certification in Israel as quickly as possible. We optimize the process, prepare all documentation, handle regulator negotiations, and deliver turnkey certification.