All Israel ETA and entry rules 2025: Avoid issues at the border

Planning a trip to Israel? This guide will cover everything you need to know about Israel’s visa policy, ETA requirements, and other essential entry rules.

Read our expert tips on visiting Israel in 2025 and avoid issues at the border.

All Israel entry requirements in 2025

Before you pack your bags for Israel, make sure you're all set with the immigration and health requirements. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know:

• New for 2025: Travelers from visa-exempt countries must apply for an Israel ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization - also called ETA-IL) before boarding.

• To keep your trip smooth and stress-free, it’s also important to stay updated on vaccination guidelines and entry rules.

Israel visa policy: Do I need an ETA-IL or visa?

Your visa requirements for Israel depend on your nationality and the reason for your visit.

Who needs an ETA-IL?

If you're visiting Israel for tourism or business, and you're from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need an ETA-IL before you go.

This easy-to-get travel authorization lets you visit multiple times for up to 90 days per stay within two years. Plus, you can apply online hassle-free with iVisa.

Who needs a visa?

If your nationality isn’t visa-exempt, you’ll need to apply for a visit visa at an Israeli consulate or embassy. This applies to travelers from countries like India, China, and South Africa, among others.

A visit visa is typically granted for tourism, business, or family visits and may require proof of accommodation, return tickets, and financial stability.

How to apply for the Israel ETA-IL in three easy steps

Getting your ETA-IL is quick and easy. You can apply online through the official Israel government portal, our secure platform, or even on the go with our mobile app.

Follow these steps:

1️⃣ Head to the online portal or our platform/app and enter your personal, passport, and travel details.

2️⃣ Make a secure payment for the government fee and our service fee using your preferred payment method.

3️⃣ Upload a quick passport scan, submit your application, and keep an eye on your inbox.

💡Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, recommends:

"The ETA process is usually quick, but to stay stress-free, we recommend applying at least a week before your trip."

Don't forget: Print a copy and keep a digital version handy to show at immigration when you arrive.

What you need to apply for your Israel ETA-IL

Make sure to have the following ready before you apply:

• Scan of your valid passport (make sure it’s valid for at least three months beyond your arrival date)

• Working email address to receive your ETA approval

• Payment method such as a credit or debit card

That’s it - super simple. If the government needs anything else, we’ll notify you by email, so keep an eye on your inbox.

Why choose us for your Israel ETA application?

When applying for the Israel ETA, precision and convenience matter. Here’s why travelers choose our service:

Expert review for accuracy & peace of mind

Before submitting your application, we conduct an extra layer of review to ensure your details are correct. Avoid errors, delays, and unnecessary stress - we've got you covered.

💡Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, adds:

”A review step is especially crucial given the newness of this document and the current political climate.”

Flexible & secure payment options

The government portal limits payment to certain credit cards. With us, you get ultimate flexibility: pay securely using debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, Amazon Pay, and more.

No restrictions, just a seamless and secure payment.

”I don’t have a credit card, and I couldn’t complete the application on the government site. iVisa was the perfect solution as I could pay with PayPal for extra security.” – Paul Z., recent applicant

Let us handle the details so you can focus on your trip.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Israel?

No, Israel doesn’t require any vaccinations for travelers. However, staying up to date on recommended vaccines is always a smart move for a safe and healthy trip. No need to worry about a Yellow Fever certificate either.

The CDC recommends making sure you're covered for routine vaccines like:

✔️ Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

✔️ Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap)

✔️ Varicella (Chickenpox)

✔️ Polio

✔️ Influenza (especially during flu season)

For personalized advice, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before your trip.

Other important entry rules and pro tips

Before heading to Israel, here are a few key things to keep in mind for a smooth arrival.

1. Be prepared for extra security checks

Israel takes border security seriously, so expect thorough questioning at immigration. To make things easier:

• Have your travel documents and itinerary ready.
• Be prepared for extra questions if you have Arab ancestry, an unusual travel history, are a solo traveler, or work in media.
• Extra scrutiny is placed on travelers with professional camera equipment, drones, or other technology. Some travelers have reported that immigration checked the content on their laptops and tablets.
• If asked whether you know anyone in Israel or the Palestinian territories, answer honestly but keep it simple.

💡Michael Angelo from The Project Kosmos shared his experience:

"I was questioned for almost 4 hours at immigration since I’m a filmmaker traveling the world. It was intense, but once done, the rest of the process was smooth."

2. Keep your entry card safe

Instead of a passport stamp, most travelers receive an entry card when arriving in Israel. This card is your proof of legal entry, so keep it safe until you leave.

💡Tina B., a recent traveler, advises:

"Give yourself at least 3 hours at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) before departure. Security checks are thorough, even when leaving."

3. Be cautious if you’ve been to certain countries

If your passport has stamps from Lebanon, Iran, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, Malaysia, or Indonesia, you may face extra screening at immigration.

No need to stress, just have a clear and simple explanation ready (e.g., tourism or business).

4. Be careful about visiting the Palestinian territories

If you plan to visit Bethlehem, Jericho, or Ramallah, be prepared to explain why and how you're getting there.

Entering the West Bank is usually fine, but entry to Gaza is almost impossible unless for work or humanitarian reasons.

5. Carry proof of funds and accommodation

Immigration officers may ask for proof of your hotel bookings, onward travel, or financial means to ensure you can support yourself during your stay.

More info about traveling to Israel

Our customer service team is ready to assist if you have any questions about Israel or the ETA-IL application. Contact us any time via our customer service agents via chat or WhatsApp.