Passports and Visa

Important Update for Tourists Traveling to Israel (Effective January 1, 2025)

New Entry Requirements: ETA and Passport Validity
Starting January 1, 2025, all tourists visiting Israel will need to be aware of the updated Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement and new passport validity regulations. These changes are designed to simplify the entry process, but they also require travelers to meet both passport validity criteria and apply for the ETA in advance.

Key Updates:

  • Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Israel.
  • Verify that your return ticket is in line with the passport’s expiration date.

For a smooth entry, stay informed about these updates. Following the guidelines ensures you avoid delays or entry refusal.
All information provided here is based on the official regulations from the Population and Immigration Authority.

Entry Requirements and Immigration Procedures
ETA Required Starting January 1, 2025

All visa-exempt travelers must apply for and receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to Israel. Without an ETA, entry will be denied.
For more details, visit the official Israel entry website.

Passport Expiry Requirements

  • If you need an entry visa: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
  • If you are visa-exempt and need an ETA: Your passport must be valid for 3 months beyond your arrival date.

How to Check if You Need an ETA or Visa?

What You Should Do Next:

  1. Check Your Passport Expiry Date: Ensure your passport meets the required validity for your entry type.
  2. Renew Your Passport if it’s expiring soon, before applying for the ETA or visa.

Arrival in Israel: The Electronic Gate Pass
Upon arrival, the Border Control Kiosk will print an Electronic Gate Pass containing key details from your passport.
This card will include your arrival date and visa information, replacing the traditional passport stamp.

The Electronic Gate Pass:

  • Allows travelers to exit the arrival terminal without further delays.
  • Serves as an official form of identification while in Israel. Keep it on hand at all times as proof of your visa status.
  • Allows you to continue to the luggage pickup area and proceed to exit the terminal.

Entry Procedure:

  1. Proceed to passport control.
  2. Collect luggage.
  3. Go through customs:
    • Green Lane: Nothing to declare.
    • Red Lane: Goods to declare.
  4. Exit the airport.

 

Important Notes:

  • The Allenby Bridge (Israel/Jordan crossing) has specific restrictions, such as a limit of 2000 Jordanian Dinars in cash.
  • Request no Israeli stamp in your passport if traveling to Arab countries to avoid potential issues.
  • ETA approval does not guarantee entry into Israel. The border controller’s decision upon arrival is the only determining factor for entry.

For Assistance:

Customs

General information regarding the laws and policies of the Customs Authority can be downloaded:
https://www.gov.il/en/departments/topics/tourist-and-travelers-info/govil-landing-page

Please make note that travel through Allenby Bridge Crossing has specific limitations and directives. For example, visitors passing through the Allenby Bridge between Israel/Jordan may carry no more than the cash value of 2000 Jordanian Dinars.

Customs and V.A.T. for Tourists: https://taxes.go.il/English/Vat/Pages/VatLobby.aspx

Aside from Allenby Bridge Crossing, and for all other Gateways including airports, the following tourist guide is relevant for visitors as defined by the Customs and Tax Authority:
https://taxes.gov.il/English/Vat/pages/guides/vat-refund-for-tourists.aspx
https://taxes.gov.il/English/customs/PersonalImport/Pages/CustomsTuristGuide.aspx

Please note: there is a two-lane customs transit system, one green and the other red, at Ben Gurion Airport and the various Crossing Points. Visitors who do not have goods to be declared may go through the green lane at the exit from the passenger arrival hall.

 

*The information presented on this page is based on data and details provided to the Ministry of Tourism by the Population and Immigration Authority.

We strive to ensure accuracy and reliability by relying on the information obtained from this trusted source.

Any update or change in the information is the responsibility of the Population and Immigration Authority