05/29/2024
New Rule for Visitors Entering Israel
The Israeli Population and Immigration Authority has announced that starting August 1, 2024, visitors will not be able to enter Israel without a permit (called an ETA-IL) or visa.
For those coming from most countries, this is not a visa application process and is a quick and not complicated step to receive an ETA-IL.
You can get the permit using this link: https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/
You will be asked to provide:
your personal details
your email address
your travel information
your passport details
upload a photo
The ETA-IL permit for entry is valid for two years.
Those coming from the USA and Germany can begin to apply in June 2024 for visits from August and onward at no cost. All other countries can begin to apply in July 2024 at no cost.
Beginning August 1 it will cost 25 shekel.
Please Note: Israeli citizens or holders of an Israeli identity number do not need to apply for the permit.
FAQs:
1. Why is Israel doing this?
-Many passengers arrive in Israel daily and have to be sent back to where they came from - for criminal reasons, for breaking laws in Israel previously, due to suspicion that they are not coming for the reasons they say they are coming, etc. This will prevent those people from boarding the plane to begin with and will avoid the challenge of someone already landing here and having to send them back.
2. How long will it take to the receive a permit?
-The authorities are saying that answers will be given within 72 hours of the application. We will send out an update if this changes.
3. Do I have to apply for this if I already have a visa for staying in Israel long term?
-If you have a valid visa in hand for a long term stay in Israel then you do not have to apply for an ETA-IL permit.
4. Does this apply to students who are coming to a Israel for a semester or a year of study on a student visa?
-If they already have the student visa prior to flying to Israel then they do not have to apply for an ETA-IL permit.
5. If I have relatives living in Israel do I have to apply for an ETA-IL?
-Yes, you do
The rules for travel to Israel have changed. Starting from August 2024, visitors from visa-exempt countries are required to obtain an ETA-IL(Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the state of Israel. An approved ETA-IL, indicates that you are allowed to travel to Israel and stay for up to 90 day...