Visa to Israel – All the information about Israel Entry from 2025

Introduction

Starting in January 2025, tourists from visa-exempt countries will be required to submit an application for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before arriving in Israel.

This decision was made as part of Israel’s efforts to enhance border control, strengthen national security, and align its entry procedures with those of other countries, such as the United States (ESTA), Canada (eTA), and Australia.

The ETA is a pre-entry electronic authorization, but it is not a visa and does not serve as a substitute for one. Citizens of visa-exempt countries will still be able to enter Israel, but only after obtaining prior approval through the ETA system.

This change will impact millions of travelers who previously entered Israel without any preliminary process. They will now need to submit an online application, wait for approval, and ensure their authorization is valid before traveling.

How the ETA Application Process Works

The process will be entirely digital and will be handled through a dedicated platform managed by the Population and Immigration Authority.

Applicants will need to complete an online form, providing personal details, passport information, and the purpose of their visit. A processing fee will be required, though the exact amount has not yet been published. Similar systems worldwide suggest a fee in the range of $7 to $15.

The system will then conduct a background check, assessing security concerns, criminal history, or prior visa violations in Israel.

Most applications are expected to be approved within 24 to 72 hours, though some cases requiring further review may take longer.

Once issued, the ETA will be valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and will allow multiple entries during its validity period.

Impact on Travelers

The introduction of the ETA system will have both advantages and disadvantages for travelers.

On the positive side, the entry process at Ben Gurion Airport is expected to become more efficient, as security and administrative screenings will be completed in advance. This should reduce delays at the border and streamline immigration procedures. The system will also enable authorities to filter out inadmissible travelers before they arrive, thus improving national security.

However, the new requirement introduces certain challenges. Travelers who fail to obtain their ETA in advance will not be permitted to board their flight to Israel, potentially disrupting travel plans. Some applications may also be rejected for various reasons, requiring appeals or alternative travel arrangements.

Additionally, this change adds an extra bureaucratic step, requiring travelers to plan ahead and complete their applications well before their trip.

Legal Criteria for ETA Approval

The implementation of the ETA will have significant legal implications, as it establishes clear criteria for approval or rejection of entry authorization, creating a new layer of pre-screening for visitors.

The criteria for obtaining an ETA have yet to be fully detailed by the Israeli authorities. However, based on similar systems in other countries, approval will generally be granted to applicants who meet specific requirements. Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended date of entry. Those with a serious criminal record may face rejection, particularly if they have been convicted of major offenses, including security-related crimes.

Individuals who have previously violated Israeli immigration rules, such as overstaying a visa or working without authorization, may face difficulties obtaining an ETA. The applicant must declare the purpose of their visit, whether tourism, business, or visiting family, and provide accurate information to avoid suspicion of unlawful intent, such as plans to work or overstay.

The Israeli authorities may deny an ETA to individuals with known connections to hostile entities or those suspected of engaging in activities that pose a security risk.

Common Reasons for ETA Denial

Decisions regarding ETA approval or denial will be based on data collected from various sources, including international databases, cooperation with foreign agencies, and information from Israeli security and immigration systems.

There are several common reasons why an application may be rejected: Errors in form completion, such as incorrect passport numbers, names, or dates of birth, can lead to automatic denial. Travelers with a history of immigration violations, such as overstaying a previous visit or unauthorized work, may face rejections. Applications that contain vague or inconsistent statements regarding the visit’s purpose can raise concerns and lead to denial. Security-related restrictions may apply to individuals with ties to hostile nations or criminal activities

. Additionally, those who have been previously deported or blacklisted by Israeli immigration authorities may not be granted an ETA.

How to Avoid ETA Denial

To minimize the risk of denial, travelers should take several precautions when preparing their application.

They should ensure all passport details are entered correctly, matching the official records precisely.

If the visit is for an extended stay, business, or any purpose beyond standard tourism, supporting documents such as hotel reservations, employer letters, or invitations from contacts in Israel may be required.

Travelers who have faced previous immigration issues should verify in advance whether any outstanding concerns can be resolved with the relevant authorities before submitting their application.

Providing clear and accurate statements regarding the purpose of travel is essential to avoid raising suspicion.

Appealing a Denied ETA Application

For those whose ETA application is denied, several options are available to contest the decision.

The first step is to carefully review the rejection notice, as some applicants may receive a general explanation or instructions on how to proceed.

If the denial was due to incorrect or incomplete information, submitting a revised application with accurate details may resolve the issue. In many cases, resubmitting an application with updated information, especially if errors were made in the initial submission, can result in approval.

If the applicant’s circumstances have changed, such as obtaining a new supporting document from an employer or family member in Israel, including this information may help. However, it is advisable to wait a few days before resubmitting a request to allow the system to update and avoid automatic rejection for multiple attempts in a short period.

If the application was denied without a clear explanation or based on incorrect information, a formal appeal can be filed with the Population and Immigration Authority. Supporting documents demonstrating the applicant’s eligibility for entry should be included.

Appeals are reviewed by qualified officials, but processing times are not guaranteed, so it is important to file the appeal well before the planned travel date.

In complex cases involving security concerns or immigration issues, seeking legal representation may be necessary.

Immigration lawyers can submit requests for reconsideration, appeal to the Appeals Tribunal, or in exceptional cases, file a petition with the Supreme Court. If the rejection is based on incorrect or outdated information, legal action may help overturn the decision through the appropriate judicial channels.

Final Considerations

Given that ETA approval is now a prerequisite for travel to Israel, ensuring the application is submitted correctly is essential.

Travelers should double-check all personal details, avoid omitting any relevant information, and ensure consistency in their documentation. Those with past legal or immigration concerns should consider consulting an expert before submitting their request.

If the application raises any questions, additional supporting documents, such as invitation letters, work-related paperwork, or proof of accommodation, may be necessary to prevent rejection.

The ETA requirement marks a significant shift in Israel’s entry policies, necessitating careful preparation to avoid complications. Travelers who take proactive steps and remain aware of the application requirements will increase their chances of securing approval and ensuring a smooth entry process.