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Welcome! You are planning a trip to Israel. This country is amazing. It is called the Holy Land. You can see so many different things here. Think about visiting Jerusalem for history, floating in the special Dead Sea, or just having fun in modern Tel Aviv.

But first, you must get ready for the new travel rules. Israel has started a new digital entry system. This means almost everyone must get online permission before they fly. This guide is here to help you. We will talk about the two main approvals: the quick ETA-IL and the more formal eVisa-B2. We will tell you exactly what you need to do to get approved easily. Then you can focus on planning your Israel itinerary.

What is the Israel eVisa?

The Israeli eVisa system is a modern, unified digital framework designed to screen all incoming international travelers electronically before they board their flights This system makes either an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) or an eVisa-B2 mandatory for entry, streamlining the process while enhancing national security.

This system replaces the traditional visa-free entry stamp for many nationalities and simplifies the application process for those who require a formal visa (B-2) to enter. The final approved document is linked digitally to your passport, but travelers should always carry a printed or digital copy.

Is there a visa on arrival in Israel?

We need to be very clear about this: Israel does not have a Israel Visa on Arrival service.

• You Must Be Ready: Starting January 1, 2025, every traveler must have a valid ETA-IL or eVisa-B2 approval before they start their flight. The airline will check for this permission. If you land in Israel without it, the border control officers will tell you to go home immediately.
  


• Security First: Because of the strong focus on security, Israel checks your file and decides if you can enter the country long before you arrive at the airport desk.
  


• The Final Decision: Even if you have the digital approval, the final decision to let you into the country is always made by the border control officer at the airport. They will ask you detailed questions about your trip, your job, and where you are staying. You must be honest, be patient, and cooperate fully.

How many types of Israel visa are there?

Israel's system primarily features two main electronic travel documents. Selecting the correct type based on your nationality is the first and most crucial step before you Apply Now.

ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization - Israel)

The ETA-IL is mandatory for citizens of historically visa-exempt countries (including the US, UK, EU nations, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea). It is a pre-screening formality, not a full visa.

• Purpose: Tourism or business visits up to 90 days.
  


• Validity: Up to 2 years (or until your passport expires).
  


• Entries: Allows Multiple entries.
  


• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days per visit.
  


• Processing Time: Typically 24-72 hours.

eVisa-B2 (Tourist/Visitor Electronic Visa)

The eVisa-B2 is a formal Tourist Visa designed for citizens of countries that previously required a standard B-2 visa issued by an office. This system is currently being rolled out in a pilot program.

• Purpose: Tourism, family visits, business, or short study/medical treatment.
  


• Validity: Varies by nationality and case (e.g., up to 90 days).
  


• Entries: Single or multiple entries (determined during processing).
  


• Stay Duration: Up to 90 days (determined by Border Control).
  


• Processing Time: Typically 5-10 business days.

Quick Comparison: The ETA-IL is faster and cheaper, mainly serving security pre-screening for travelers who enjoyed visa-free entry. The eVisa-B2 is a formal visa for citizens of visa-required countries and involves more thorough document review.

What are the eligibility criteria for an Israel eVisa?

To get your ETA-IL, you must meet minimal criteria:

• Passport: Valid for at least 90 days from the date of entry.
  


• Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country on the ETA-IL exemption list.
  


• Purpose: Tourism, business, or transit (planned stay of 90 days or less).
  


• Application: Complete the fully digital online form.

What are the documents required for an Israel eVisa?

The eVisa-B2 requires more extensive documentation to secure your Israel Tourist Visa:

• Valid Passport: A valid 6 months Passport beyond the intended date of departure from Israel, with at least two blank pages.
  


• Photograph: Recent, passport-sized photograph (5cm x 5cm) with a plain white background.


• Financial Proof: Bank statements (last 3-6 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your stay.
  


• Travel Documentation: Round-trip flight itinerary, and confirmed hotel reservations or an invitation letter from your host.

How to apply for Israel e-Visa online?

 Whether you need the ETA-IL or the eVisa-B2, the entire process is conducted online:

1. Determine Your Type: Confirm if you need the fast ETA-IL or the more formal eVisa-B2 based on your passport.
   


2. Complete the Form: Access the designated online portal. Fill in all personal details, travel history, and contact information. Accuracy is critical, ensure every detail matches your passport exactly.

1. Upload Documents: Upload your digital photo and supporting documents (financial proof, itinerary, etc.) as required.
   


2. Pay the Charge: Pay the applicable processing charge online using an accepted payment method.
   


3. Receive Approval: You will receive your approval confirmation via email. Print a copy or save it on your mobile device.

How long does an Israel eVisa take to process?

How fast your document is ready depends on which type you need.

How long is the Israel eVisa valid for?

ETA-IL: Valid for up to 2 years for many trips.

eVisa-B2: The exact time it is valid for and how many times you can enter is printed clearly on your approval letter.

Stay Limit: For both documents, the maximum stay you can have is usually 90 days from the day you enter Israel.

How to extend an Israeli eVisa?

If you need to stay longer than 90 days, getting an extension is very difficult.

• Apply In Person: You cannot extend these documents online. You must apply in person at the Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) office in Israel.
  


• Apply Early: You must apply for the extension before your current 90-day permission period ends.
  


• Special Cases: Extensions are only given for very strong, proven reasons, like unexpected, serious medical treatment or a family emergency. They are not given just because you decided you want to travel longer.

Is travel insurance required for Israel?

It is strongly, strongly recommended that you buy Travel Insurance before your trip. Getting sick or hurt in Israel is expensive for foreigners.

• Health Coverage: Your policy must include full coverage for emergency medical treatment and, most importantly, medical evacuation (Medevac). This pays for a special flight home if you are very sick.
  


• Trip Protection: Also check that your insurance covers major trip issues like flight cancellations or lost luggage.

Health and Safety Tips

• Vaccinations: Make sure all your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.
  


• Sun Protection: The sun in Israel is very strong all year, even in winter. Drink a lot of water every day. Wear a hat and use strong sunscreen.
  


• Security: Israel has very high security standards at the airport and all major sites. This is normal. Be polite and patient when officers ask you questions.

Which Currency & Payment method is used in Israel?

• Official Currency: The New Israeli Shekel (NIS).
  


• Payment: Credit cards work almost anywhere, e.g. in hotels, restaurants, and big stores. However, you have to bring NIS cash for small local markets (like the shuk), street food vendors, and tips.

Which SIM and network is best in Israel? 

• SIM Cards: You can easily buy a local SIM card from a company like Partner or Cellcom when you land at the airport. This is always cheaper than using your phone company's international roaming plan.
  


• Coverage: Phone service (4G and 5G) is excellent everywhere in cities and on major highways.

What is the nicest place in Israel?

The best part starts after your digital entry document gets approved. Here are the top places to visit in Israel for your travel planning:

• Jerusalem: You can see the Western Wall, rove through the timeless bazaars of the Old City, and visit the well-known churches and holy sites.
  


• Tel Aviv: Soak up the sun at the stunning Mediterranean beaches, discover the old port of Jaffa, and stroll through the renowned White City to view the one-of-a-kind Bauhaus architecture.
  


• Dead Sea: Experience floating in the special salty water. It is absolutely necessary if you are at the lowest point on Earth. Try the healing mud.

• Masada: See the ancient fortress and palace ruins on the huge mountain after riding the cable car up.
  


• Sea of Galilee: Come to the large lake in the north that is the source of many religious stories.
  


• Eilat: Visit this city on the Red Sea for wonderful swimming, snorkeling, and diving among the coral reefs.

What are the major border crossings and airports in Israel?  

While most people fly into Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), Israel has land borders with its neighbors, Jordan and Egypt.

Arriving at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

• The Check: You show your passport and your digital approval to the officer.
  


• No Stamp: Israel generally does not stamp your passport. Instead, they give you a small, blue paper entry slip (or an electronic one) to prevent issues if you visit certain other countries later. Keep this blue slip safe! This slip is your proof of legal entry.

Land Borders with Jordan and Egypt

• Jordan: You can cross at the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge (closest to Jerusalem), the Sheikh Hussein Crossing (Jordan River) (closest to northern Israel), or the Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba Crossing (near Eilat and Aqaba). Each crossing has different operating hours and different rules about visas and taxes.
  


• Egypt: You cross at the Taba Terminal near Eilat. This is often used for short trips to the Sinai desert.

Exit Taxes: In case you exit Israel via a land border (Jordan or Egypt), you are obliged to pay a departure tax.

Conclusion Your Final Steps

The new digital system (the ETA-IL and eVisa-B2) makes getting permission to visit Israel modern and efficient. By knowing the difference between the two types and getting your Israel  eVisa requirements ready early, you can avoid stress and focus on starting your trip to the Holy Land. We strongly recommend you Apply Now well before your flight.

Related Reads: Explore more through our guides:- How Australian Citizens Can Apply for an Israel Visa,
Israel Tourist eVisa Requirements for US Citizens in 2025