NOTICE OF New Rules on Entry to Israel from Visa-Exempt Countries
Israel announced a change in rules for travel to Israel.
KARELAINE TOURS CAN ASSIST WITH APPLICATION
These rules apply to visitors to Israel from visa-exempt countries. (South Africa included).
Visitors from countries for which a visa is required for travel to Israel must still obtain a visa as before. The new rule also does not apply to Israeli citizens or holders of an Israeli identity number.
Starting from August 2024, visitors from visa-exempt countries are required to obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the State of Israel. A holder of an ETA-IL is permitted to travel to Israel and stay for up to 90 days per visit.
The ETA-IL will be valid for a two-year period, for multiple trips of 90 days or less within that period. If any single visit will be for more than 90 days, a request for an extension of that stay must be submitted.
All visitors to Israel must have a valid visa or ETA-IL approval before they start their trip.
The application for the ETA-IL may be submitted any time prior to travel, but it is recommended that it be submitted at least 72 hours before making any other travel arrangements (tickets, lodging, etc.).
The ETA-IL may be obtained through a simple and fast online application here: https://bit.ly/450NI0v.
The application will first inform the applicant whether they are eligible for an ETA-IL, based on their country of origin.
There are then a few basic questions to answer, and a fee of 25 NIS is charges. (Karelaine Tours offices can assist)
A response will be received within 24-72 hours, and sometimes within a few minutes.
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 1st, 2024
WHAT IS AN ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization)
The rules for travel to Israel have changed. Starting from August 2024, visitors from visa-exempt countries are required to obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter the state of Israel. An approved ETA-IL indicates that you are allowed to travel to Israel and stay for up to 90 days per visit.
All travellers to Israel must have a valid visa or ETA-IL approval before they start their journey. If you are eligible, obtaining an ETA-IL is a simpler and faster process. Learn more
Note: Israeli citizens or holders of an Israeli identity number do not need to apply for an ETA-IL.
KARELAINE TOURS CAN ASSIST WITH APPLICATION
To complete the form, you will need:
- 1 A valid email address
- 2 Your travel information.
- 3 Your personal information
- 4 A valid passport
The ETA-IL may be obtained through a simple and fast online application here: https://bit.ly/450NI0v.
What does it mean that I have an ETA-IL authorization?
Receiving ETA-IL authorization does not mean you may stay in Israel for two years, it only allows you to travel to Israel if your passport is one of a Visa-exempt countries, which only allows you to stay in Israel for 90 days or less. If you plan to stay for longer than 90 days, you will be required to submit a request for the extension of your stay.
When should I apply through ETA-IL?
Applications may be submitted at any time prior to travel to Israel. The Population and Immigration Authority recommends that travel authorization applications be submitted at least 72 hours prior to any booking of flight tickets, hotel rooms and other similar expanses that are related your planned travel to Israel.
How long is my ETA-IL valid for?
Your ETA-IL authorization is generally valid for multiple trips over a period of up to two years (starting the date that your application has been approved) or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that as long as you received an ETA-IL authorization to travel, you do not have to reapply during the validity period.
If your ETA-IL expires while in Israel, it will not affect your departure.
How do I correct a mistake on my application?
The Web site will allow applicants to review and correct their data prior to submitting the application. Prior to submitting an application with the required payment information, you can correct all application data fields.
After submitting the form, how long will it take for me to receive a reply?
You should receive a reply within 24 to 72 hours (sometimes within a few minutes).
How do I know if my citizenship qualifies me to apply for an ETA-IL?
If you are a citizen of an eligible country that does not require a B/2 visa for Israel, you must complete an ETA-IL form.