Israel is joining the Western nations, requiring an advanced online application and a fee for citizens from visa-exempt countries, starting first with the United States and Germany.
According to Israel’s Ministry of Tourism, starting August 1, an Electronic Travel Authorization Application (ETA-IL) will be required through a designated website for the nationals of all countries who can currently enter Israel visa-free. German and US citizens will be the only ones who will need to obtain the authorization to enter Israel from June 1, VisaGuide.World reports.
Israel is expected to join several Western countries, including Australia and New Zealand, with such systems set to change how tourists enter the country at its main international airport.
New Rules on Entry to Israel from Visa-Exempt Countries
The application, which will cost $7 and stay valid for up to two years, or until the current passport expires, will begin this Saturday for travelers from the US and Germany and will be extended to all visa-exempt countries on July 1.
Travellers must apply for the authorisation to enter Israel at least 72 hours before booking flights and accommodations.
The ETA-IL system will open for applications starting June 1, 2024, as a pilot program for holders of American and German passports only. During this pilot phase, submission of an application will be voluntary and exempt from fees.
The system will be open to holders of other passports from July 1, 2024, while the authorization will become mandatory to enter Isaelvisa-free on August 1.
Citizens of Nonexempt Countries Still Need a Traditional Israeli Entry Visa
Visitors from non-eligible countries still need to obtain a visa at an Israeli consulate before travel and do not need an ETA-IL.
The United States warns that people who only apply for travel authorization in advance could avoid flight delays or being turned back at the border, even if they come from countries participating in the US visa waiver program.
Once a visitor’s application is approved, travelers can stay in Israel for up to 90 days, with the approval remaining valid for up to two years or until their passport expires, whichever comes first.
Previously, Israeli authorities planned to simplify tourist travel by introducing an electronic visa (E-visa) system. This means that tourists from visa-requiring countries can apply for a visa online and receive it by email, eliminating the need to visit the Israeli embassy.
Moreover, visa applications can be submitted online, and once approved, the e-visa will be sent directly to the applicant’s inbox.