Israel has announced a change in entry requirements for foreign visitors from visa-exempt countries. Starting in August 2024, these travelers will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before visiting Israel. This new rule does not apply to Israeli citizens, identity card holders, or nationals of countries that already require a visa for entry to Israel.
The ETA-IL system will allow approved visitors to enter Israel for stays of up to 90 days per visit. The authorization will be valid for two years, permitting multiple entries during that period as long as no single stay exceeds 90 days. Visitors planning to remain in Israel for longer than 90 days on a given trip must request an extension.
All prospective visitors must secure either a valid visa or an approved ETA-IL before commencing travel to Israel. The online ETA-IL application process is designed to be simple and fast. After determining eligibility based on country of citizenship, applicants will need to provide some basic information and pay a fee of 25 New Israeli Shekels (NIS).
Most ETA-IL applications will be processed within 24-72 hours, though some may receive approval in just a few minutes. The application website will be made available starting June 1, 2024, initially as a pilot program open only to American and German passport holders. During this pilot phase, applications will be free of charge.
From July 1, 2024 onward, the ETA-IL system will expand to accept applications from all other eligible nationalities, with the 25 NIS fee applying. Travelers are advised to apply for their ETA-IL at least 72 hours prior to booking any travel arrangements.
The ETA-IL may be obtained through the online application at this link.
