Is Owning a Kangaroo Legal in Iceland After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

No. Iceland’s strict wildlife protection laws under the Nature Conservation Act (No. 64/2013) prohibit private ownership of non-native species like kangaroos without special permits. The Icelandic Environment Agency (Umhverfisstofnun) enforces these restrictions, aligning with the country’s 2026 biodiversity compliance framework to prevent ecological disruption.


Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Iceland

  • Permit Requirement: The Ministry for the Environment, Energy and Climate may issue permits only for scientific, educational, or conservation purposes, not personal ownership. Applications undergo rigorous ecological impact assessments.
  • Prohibited Species List: Kangaroos are classified as “unauthorized exotic animals” under Regulation No. 585/2018, barring import without a veterinary health certificate and quarantine protocols.
  • Enforcement & Penalties: Violations trigger fines up to 10 million ISK (≈€70,000) or confiscation, per Act on Animal Welfare (No. 55/2013). The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) conducts inspections.