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 days per visit.

Israel will launch the Electronic Travel Authorization Israel (ETA-IL) program in the summer of 2024. The Electronic Travel Authorization Israel (ETA-IL) program was introduced in June. By August, it will be mandatory for all foreigners from visa-free countries.

– On June 1, ETA-IL began operating in test mode for U.S. and German citizens.

– On July 1, the test regime will be extended to citizens of all other countries whose citizens can enter Israel without visas.

– From August 1, obtaining an ETA-IL will become mandatory.

The ETA will have to be obtained online by filling out an application form at ETA-IL (piba.gov.il)  with personal data, travel details and e-mail. 

The ETA will cost 25 shekels per person.

What can you do with an ETA-IL?

- Enjoy Israel as a tourist

- Doing Business

- Travel for non-work and non-medical purposes

You must:

- Be eligible (check if you are eligible)

- Be a citizen of an eligible country

- Have a valid passport

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If you are traveling to Israel, you may need to apply for a visa.

If you don’t need a visa to enter, the total period of stay in the country should not exceed 90 days within 180 days. This applies when you are traveling as a tourist, attending business meetings, or studying in Jewish Ulpan.

Citizens who can enter Israel without a prior visa must still present several documents at the Port of entry of Israel. These documents:

• Passport with two blank visa pages and a validity period of at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave;
• Confirmation of the availability of sufficient funds, namely bank statements or cash;
• Confirmation of air tickets for direct/return flights;
• Documents confirming the purpose of the trip;
• Visa for the next destination, if required.

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If you want to come to Israel for 90 days or less, and if you are from a country whose citizens need a visa, you must apply for a guest visa B/2.

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How do I apply for a visa B/2 to Israel?

If you need a guest visa B/2 for Israel, you will have to apply for one. Applying for a visa to enter Israel involves following several requirements and procedures established by the Israeli authorities.

Basic steps for applying for an Israeli visa:

1. Find out exactly when to apply;
2. Check where you want to apply;
3. Fill out the B/2 visa application form;
4. Collect the necessary documents;
5. Apply/take part in a visa interview;
6. Pay the application fee;
7. Wait for your visa to be processed.

When to apply for a B/2 visa?

You must apply for a B/2 visa to Israel one to two months before your expected travel date.

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Where can I apply for a B/2 visa?

When applying for a B/2 visa, you must submit a completed application to the competent authorities of your country of residence to obtain an Israeli visa. This can be the embassy or Consulate of Israel, or a visa application center.

Before starting the application process, you should check this information with the Israeli embassy in your country of residence.

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Fill out the B/2 visa application form

You can request a visa application form from the embassy or download it online.

The main things you need to know about the Israel visa application form:

• The form varies depending on the type of visa; so make sure you get the correct B/2 visa application form to visit Israel;
• The form is available in two languages: English and Hebrew. You can create it in any language;
• You can fill out the form using a computer and then print it out, or use a pen of any color other than black;
• You must answer all questions that mainly relate to your nationality, first name, last name, full names of your parents, your profession, and your planned trip to Israel;
• Attach the photo in the designated place of the form.

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What documents are required for applying for a B/2 visa?

You must provide:

• Visa application form;
• Two photos with passport-sized;
• Your valid passport;
• Past passports;
• Birth certificate;
• Confirmation of payment of the fee;
• Health insurance policy. You will need to get insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Israel with a minimum coverage of 35,000 euros (40,000 dollar USA);
• Personal bank statements and salary certificates for the last 4 months.

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If you are traveling to Israel to participate in a seminar, meeting, conference, or other business reasons, please submit the following additional documents:

1. Cover letter from your employer on the form. It should include your first and last name, your work for the company, the purpose of your trip to Israel, and the estimated length of stay;
2. Personal email. This is a cover letter written by you explaining the purpose of your trip, how long you want to stay, and what you will be doing in Israel;
3. Invitation letter in Hebrew language on the company's letterhead. The letter must include your name, your passport number, the duration and purpose of your trip to Israel. The letter must be sent to the embassy by fax from the invited part in Israel;
4. Salary certificates for the last 4 months.

On the other hand, if the purpose of applying for a B/2 visa to Israel is tourism, visiting the country, excursions or recreation, you should submit the following additional documents:

• Hotel reservations in Israel;
• Invitation letter. If a friend/relative living in Israel has invited you, add an invitation letter in Hebrew with the contact details of the invitee to your application;
• A letter from a tour operator in Israel with a list of planned events that will be performed in Israel.

The Israeli authorities in your country of residence responsible for processing your Visa have the right to request additional documents from you.

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Visit a visa application form

You will need to attend a visa reception at the Israeli embassy / consulate / Visa Application Center. On the day of the interview, you will have to meet with a consular official to whom you will submit the necessary documents. This person will ask you questions related to your application, the intention of your trip to Israel, and other details about it.

You will also need to pay the visa fee on the same day.

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What is the cost of the visa fee?

The B/2 visa fee is EUR 21 per applicant. If you apply through a visa application center, you will have to pay an additional service fee, which can’t be more than the price of the visa itself.

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How long does it take to apply for a visa?

Obtaining a B/2 visa for Israel can take up to 14 business days.

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How long is a B/2 visa valid?

The B/2 visa is valid for a maximum of three months from the date of issue. However, the Israeli border police determines the length of stay in Israel at your place of entry.

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Can I extend my B/2 visa to Israel?

If you want to stay in Israel for an extended period with a B/2 visa, you can apply for a visa extension. You must apply for an extension at the Office of the Population Administration while you are still in Israel.

Applying, you must specify the reason why you want to stay longer, such as family ties, medical reasons, legal procedures, and so on.

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Israeli "electronic pass"

"Electronic Gate Pass" is a card that you receive at the border control station when entering Israel. The card contains information about the purpose of the trip, the date of arrival, as well as a copy of the information page of your passport.

The card replaces the previous system where passports were stamped. If an official inspector or police officer requires an identity card and proof of legal status in Israel, you must present this card, so always keep it with you.