2026 Israel Visa Requirements
Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Overview
Israel maintains a relatively open visa policy, welcoming visitors from approximately 96 countries without requiring a traditional visa. However, as of January 1, 2025, a significant change has been implemented: all travelers from visa-exempt countries must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before traveling to Israel.
This comprehensive guide covers everything travelers need to know about entering Israel in 2026, including the new ETA-IL system, visa requirements for different nationalities, entry procedures, and special visa categories for work, study, and residency.
The ETA-IL System
What is ETA-IL?
The Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel (ETA-IL) is a mandatory digital pre-screening system introduced by the Israel Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA). Similar to the U.S. ESTA and Canada's eTA programs, ETA-IL modernizes Israel's border security while streamlining the entry process for visitors from visa-exempt countries.
Key Features
Cost: 25 Israeli Shekels (approximately $7 USD)
Validity: 2 years or until passport expiration, whichever comes first
Entry type: Multiple entries permitted
Maximum stay: Up to 90 days per visit
Application timing: Submit at least 72 hours before departure
Processing time: Usually within a few hours to 72 hours
How to Apply
Visit the official portal: Apply only through the official Israel Population and Immigration Authority website at israel-entry.piba.gov.il. Never use third-party services.
Prepare your information: Have your valid passport, email address, intended arrival date, purpose of travel, and length of stay ready.
Complete the application: Fill out the online form with personal information including full name, nationality, phone number, and passport details.
Pay the fee: Submit payment of 25 NIS via credit card.
Receive confirmation: Your ETA-IL approval will be sent to your email address. Keep a copy (digital or printed) for your records.
Who Needs ETA-IL?
All travelers from visa-exempt countries visiting Israel for tourism, business, or short-term purposes (up to 90 days) must obtain ETA-IL before travel. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, European Union member states, United Kingdom, Australia, and many other countries.
Exemptions
Israeli citizens and permanent residents
Holders of valid Israeli visas (B1, A5, etc.)
Dual nationals with Israeli passports (who should enter using their Israeli passport)
Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens of the following regions can enter Israel without a traditional visa, but must obtain ETA-IL approval. The standard permitted stay is up to 90 days for tourism, business, or short-term study.
RegionCountriesEuropeAll EU member states, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Montenegro, Moldova, Ukraine, Belarus, GeorgiaNorth AmericaUnited States, Canada, MexicoSouth AmericaArgentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, Peru, Ecuador, SurinameCentral America & CaribbeanCosta Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and othersAsia-PacificJapan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Philippines, Mongolia, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and othersMiddle EastUnited Arab Emirates (since 2020 Abraham Accords)AfricaSouth Africa, Botswana, Mauritius, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi
Special Note on Egypt: Egyptian citizens are exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 14 days when entering through Taba and traveling only as far north as Beersheba.
Countries Requiring Visas
Citizens of countries not listed above must obtain a visa before traveling to Israel. This typically requires applying at an Israeli embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
E-Visa Countries
Nationals of India, Sri Lanka, and select other countries may apply online for an electronic visa (e-Visa) valid for up to 90 days for tourism, business, short study, or medical treatment.
Countries with Entry Restrictions
Due to the ongoing regional situation, citizens of certain countries may face additional restrictions or be unable to enter Israel. These include citizens of countries with no diplomatic relations with Israel, such as Syria, Lebanon, Iran, Iraq, and Yemen, as well as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Libya, Algeria, and Maldives (which banned Israeli passport holders as of April 2025).
Entry Requirements for All Visitors
Required Documents
Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Israel with at least one blank page.
ETA-IL Approval (if applicable): Printed or digital copy of your approved Electronic Travel Authorization.
Visa (if applicable): Valid visa from Israeli embassy or consulate for non-exempt countries.
Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from Israel.
Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations, rental confirmations, or invitation letter from host.
Proof of Funds: Bank statements, credit cards, or employer letter demonstrating ability to support yourself.
Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended though not always mandatory. Should cover medical emergencies and evacuation.
Currency Declaration Requirements
Air travel: Declare amounts of 50,000 NIS or more (or equivalent in foreign currency)
Land crossings: Declare amounts of 12,000 NIS or more (or equivalent)
Entry Procedures at Ben Gurion Airport
Security Screening
Ben Gurion Airport is known for having some of the most stringent security in the world. All travelers should arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. Security procedures include vehicle checks before entering the airport, security interviews where you may be asked about your travel purpose and contacts in Israel, passport verification at multiple checkpoints, and luggage screening using advanced technology.
Immigration Process
Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, travelers proceed to passport control on Level G of Terminal 3. Visitors with approved ETA-IL may use automated Border Control (ABC) kiosks for faster processing. Immigration officers may ask questions about your visit purpose, accommodation, and length of stay. Be clear and honest in your responses.
Entry Card System (No Passport Stamps)
Since 2013, Israel no longer stamps passports at airports and most land borders. Instead, visitors receive an Electronic Gate Pass (a small blue slip) containing biometric data, entry date, visa category, and a barcode. Keep this card safe as you will need it for hotel check-ins, car rentals, certain security checkpoints, and departure verification.
Visa Types and Categories
TypePurposeDurationNotesB/2Tourism, family visits, businessUp to 90 days per visitCan be extended at Ministry of InteriorB/1Work visa1 year (renewable, max 63 months)Requires employer sponsorshipA/2Student visa1 year (renewable for studies)Academic institutions or yeshivaA/1Temporary resident3 years (renewable)For those eligible under Law of ReturnA/5Permanent residentIndefinitePath to citizenship
B/1 Work Visa Details
The B/1 work visa is required for any foreign national intending to work in Israel. Key requirements include employer sponsorship from a registered Israeli company, a valid work permit from the Ministry of Interior, a salary at least double the average Israeli wage for expert positions (approximately 26,306 NIS per month as of 2025), medical clearance and police background check, and a valid passport (18+ months validity recommended). Processing typically takes 4-14 weeks depending on the category and documentation.
Working Holiday Visas
Israel offers working holiday visas to citizens aged 18-30 from select countries including Australia, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, New Zealand, and Taiwan. These visas allow 12 months of work and travel in Israel.
Land Border Crossings
Israel shares land borders with Jordan and Egypt, with several official crossing points available to travelers. Each crossing has specific operating hours and requirements.
Jordan Crossings
Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba (Eilat): The southernmost crossing, connecting Eilat to Aqaba. Popular for travelers visiting Petra.
Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein: Northern crossing in the Beit She'an area. Good for accessing Amman and northern Jordan.
Allenby/King Hussein Bridge: The crossing between Israel and the West Bank/Jordan. Note: Israeli citizens are prohibited from using this crossing.
Egypt Crossing
Taba: Located in the south near Eilat. Used primarily for access to the Sinai Peninsula. Egyptian citizens can enter Israel visa-free through this crossing for stays up to 14 days if traveling only to the Beersheba area and south.
Special Considerations
Dual Citizens
Israeli citizens, including dual nationals, are required by law to enter and exit Israel using their Israeli passport. Dual nationals with newly obtained Israeli passports or those in the process of repatriation should consult with the Ministry of Interior regarding entry requirements.
Passport Stamps from Other Countries
Having stamps from countries that don't recognize Israel (such as past visits to Iran, Syria, or Lebanon) may result in additional questioning at the border but generally will not prevent entry. Border officers may ask more detailed questions about the purpose of those visits.
West Bank and Gaza
Foreign nationals with valid Israeli visas or ETA-IL may enter the West Bank on the same basis as Israel. However, certain areas under Palestinian Authority control (Area A) may have additional restrictions. All foreign nationals need special permits to enter the Gaza Strip.
Extending Your Stay
Tourist visas can sometimes be extended at the Ministry of Interior (Misrad HaPnim) offices within Israel. Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and typically require proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and a valid reason for the extension.
Important Resources
Official ETA-IL Portal: israel-entry.piba.gov.il
Israel Population and Immigration Authority: gov.il
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: mfa.gov.il
For U.S. Citizens: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem - il.usembassy.gov
Disclaimer: Visa requirements and entry procedures can change without notice. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with official Israeli government sources or your nearest Israeli embassy/consulate before traveling.
Last Updated: January 2026
