Dear Clients,
We would like to provide you with the latest updates regarding the implementation of the ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization – Israel) system, which will be mandatory for foreign nationals from visa-exempt countries traveling to Israel from August 1st, 2024.
The ETA-IL system was introduced on June 1st, 2024, as a voluntary pilot program for holders of US and German passports only.
From July 1st, 2024, the ETA-IL system will be open for applications by holders of passports of visa-exempt countries (see the full list here), and as of August 1st, the ETA-IL application will be a mandatory stage.
After the pilot period ends on June 30th, 2024, a fee of 25 NIS (approximately $7 USD) will be charged for each ETA-IL application.
The ETA-IL approval will be valid for up to 2 years or until the passport’s expiration date, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries into Israel, with each stay not exceeding 90 days per visit, according to the visa granted upon entry. If an applicant obtains a new passport or changes their name, gender, or country of citizenship during the validity period, they will be required to apply for a new ETA-IL.
The ETA-IL approval is intended for visits for tourism, business, travel, non-work*, and non-medical purposes and activities.
* Please note that the ETA-IL approval is expected to be mandatory, also for short-term expert employees arriving in Israel from visa-exempt according to the ‘expedited procedure for work permit applications for periods that do not exceed 90 days per calendar year’.
To be eligible, applicants must be citizens of a visa-exempt country, hold a valid passport, and plan to visit Israel for up to 90 days.
Obtaining an ETA-IL does not guarantee entry into Israel, as border control officers retain the discretion to deny entry based on various circumstances.
We recommend that all clients (and representatives) planning to travel to Israel after August 1st, 2024, apply for the ETA-IL approval well in advance (and no later than 72 hours before their departure) through the official website:
israel-entry.piba.gov.il, which also includes a dedicated FAQ section.
Should you have any further questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Immigration team, Shibolet.
