Israel visa policy explained: Who needs a visa or ETA?

If you're planning a trip to Israel, whether for tourism, business, study, or work, it's important to understand the visa requirements.

This guide breaks down who needs a visa or ETA-IL, how to apply, and our expert tips for traveling to Israel.

Tourism: Do you need an Israel visa or an ETA?

The visa policy for Israel depends on your nationality.

Who needs an ETA-IL to visit Israel?

If you're from a visa-free country, you won't need a visa, just a quick Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL).

This is a new requirement starting in 2025 and allows travelers to visit Israel multiple times within two years, staying for up to 90 days per trip.

The application is simple and can be completed online through the Israeli government portal, our platform, or our mobile app.

"I applied on my phone and paid with Venmo, literally took just a couple of minutes!" – Emily R., France

Who needs a visa to visit Israel?

If you're not eligible for the ETA, you’ll need to apply for a traditional visa before your trip.

The process is straightforward, but might require more preparation: submit an application at an Israeli consulate or embassy, provide key documents (like proof of funds, travel itinerary, and accommodation details), and wait for approval.

Apply for the Israel ETA in just a few minutes

Applying for your ETA-IL takes just a few minutes. You can do it online through the official Israel government portal, our secure platform, or download our mobile app.

1️⃣ Start your application – Enter your personal, passport, and travel details.

2️⃣ Make a secure payment – Pay the government fee and service fee through one of our flexible payment options: debit or credit card, PayPal, Venmo, or Amazon Pay.

"Applying for the ETA-IL was super easy! I loved that I could pay with PayPal, as the government didn't accept my credit card." – Sarah M., United States

3️⃣ Upload your passport scan – Submit your application and check your email for approval.

Remember: Print a copy of your ETA and keep a digital version ready to show at immigration when you arrive.

💡iVisa travel expert Femke Strietman recommends:

"The ETA process is usually fast, but to avoid last-minute stress, it's best to apply at least a week before your trip."

Doing business in Israel: What type of visa do you need?

If you're traveling to Israel for business-related purposes, such as attending a conference, meeting clients, or exploring business opportunities, you still qualify for an ETA or B/2 visa, depending on your nationality.

If you're planning a long-term stay in Israel, whether for work, study, or other reasons, there are different visa options depending on your situation.

Traveling to the West Bank and Gaza

Visiting the West Bank is generally possible for tourists, and popular spots like Bethlehem, Jericho, and Ramallah are accessible from Israel.

Gaza, on the other hand, has strict travel restrictions. Entry is usually limited to humanitarian workers, journalists, and those with special permits. Tourists are not allowed to visit.

💡Femke, iVisa travel expert, advises:

"If you’re traveling to the West Bank, check the official latest security updates on your government's website. Some areas are fine, but restrictions can change quickly."

Special permissions for Jewish travelers

Jewish travelers have unique opportunities to visit Israel, with special programs and visa options designed to make the experience more meaningful.

• Birthright Israel (Taglit) – If you're 18-26 and Jewish, you might qualify for a free 10-day trip exploring Israel’s history, culture, and community.

• Masa Israel – Looking for a longer stay? Masa is an organization that offers Jewish young adults in the diaspora with internships, study programs, and volunteer opportunities.

• A/1 Temporary Resident Visa – If you're considering moving to Israel as a Jewish person, this visa allows you to live, work, and explore before deciding on full citizenship.

• Aliyah (Law of Return) – Jewish individuals (and some family members) can apply for Israeli citizenship with special support for relocation.

Other entry rules and expert tips for traveling to Israel

Beyond visas and the ETA-IL, check out all entry rules for 2025 travelers should be aware of.

One of the most important things to keep in mind is that Israel has strict border security, and all travelers may undergo questioning upon arrival.

💡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."

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.