Passports
Passports & Visas
PASSPORTS
Check to make sure that you know where your passport is and that it is not expired or about to expire. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive in Israel. If your passport expires within this period, start the renewal process well in advance. Many airlines will deny you boarding if your passport is not valid according to this policy. Learn more about ordering a USA passport or a Canadian passport.
We ask for the passport number of each individual traveler, as this is required by hotels during check-in. Please contact us to provide these details at least a month before arrival.
VISAS
If you are traveling to Israel on a USA, Canadian, or European Union member country passport, a visa is not needed to enter Israel on a tourist visit of up to three months. If you are traveling on a passport from another country, you may need a visa to enter Israel. Details are available here. Our office is able to provide you with a letter of support if needed.
ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION
As of August 1, 2024, all travelers to Israel must obtain a valid electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL) before entering the country. The online application only takes a few minutes, and you will want to select "Visit (Tourism)" as the primary reason for your entry. The ETA-IL is valid for two years and costs 25 NIS (~US$7.00). Apply for the ETA-IL at least 72 hours before your departure, and we advise you to carry a printed copy during your travels. To obtain your electronic travel authorization, go to https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il.
NOTE: The ETA-IL does not pertain to travelers entering Israel with an Israeli passport.
GATE PASS
Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, you will be issued a small slip of paper called an "Electronic Gate Pass" which serves as your official entry permit. Israel asks all visitors to keep the card on hand as proof of their status. Moreover, the pass is used to prove to the hotels that you are not an Israeli citizen and thus not responsible for VAT (a 17% tax). Failure to present this pass at check-in may result in the hotel assessing VAT at your own cost.
