31/05/2024
Message to U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem (May 31, 2024)
Location: Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza
Subject: Pilot Phase of Israeli Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) System to Begin June 1, 2024 for U.S. Citizens
From June 1, 2024 toJuly 31, 2024, the ETA-IL system will open for application submissions as a pilot program only for U.S. and German citizens (those holding valid U.S. and German passports). During the pilot phase, submitting an application will be voluntary and free. Beginning August 1, 2024, all travelers to Israel must have a valid visa or ETA-IL approval before traveling to Israel, and it will cost 25 shekels to submit the application.
The ETA-IL website (https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/) is already live, but no applications can be submitted until June 1, 2024. There are answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the website.
If this is a pilot phase and voluntary, why should I submit an application?
Beginning August 1, 2024, all U.S. citizen travelers to Israel must have a valid visa or ETA-IL approval before traveling to Israel. ETA-IL authorizations are valid for 2 years (unless you get a new passport), and, during the pilot phase, there is no fee. Beginning August 1, it will cost 25 shekels to submit an application.
Travelers who land at Ben Gurion Airport and have an approved ETA-IL will be able to proceed directly to border control e-gates without going to border control officers if they receive a permit from an automated border control kiosk.
I am a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen and want to travel to Israel. Must I complete an ETA-IL application?
U.S.-Israeli citizens do not need to submit an ETA-IL application and should depart the United States on their U.S. passport and enter Israel on their Israeli passport.
What do I do if my ETA-IL application is denied?
If you are denied, you will be directed to contact the Israeli authorities by email([email protected]) for next steps.
Actions to Take:
· All U.S. citizens should enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and ensure you can be located in an emergency.
· Refer to our website for the latest Alerts and Messages for U.S. citizens.
· Refer to our country information sheet for updated information on entry/exit requirements and safety/security information.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Jerusalem
14 David Flusser St.
Jerusalem
Online ACS Inquiry System: click here
Phone: +972-2-630-4000
Website: https://il.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv
71 HaYarkon St.
Tel Aviv
Routine: click here
Online ACS Inquiry System: click here
Phone: +972-3-519-7575
Website: https://il.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747or 202-501-4444
