UK visitors to Israel: The easy ETA errors that could cost you your trip

If you’re a UK traveler planning a trip to Israel, there’s a new requirement you need to know about: the Israel Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL).

Many travelers from the United Kingdom are making simple yet costly mistakes when applying for the ETA, leading to delays, denials, or even being turned away at the airport.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Israel ETA, the most common application errors, and how to avoid them.

Israel ETA for UK travelers: Why do you need it?

The Israel ETA is an electronic travel authorization required for UK citizens and other visa-exempt travelers before arriving in Israel.

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert:

"Without an ETA-IL, travelers from the United Kingdom will be denied boarding their plane. Make sure to apply before you go, it's a simple process."

It replaces the previous visa-free entry process and must be approved before boarding your flight.

Key Israel ETA facts for UK travelers

✔️ Mandatory for UK passport holders traveling to Israel (even if previously visa-free)

✔️ For tourists, business visitors, and other short stays (up to 90 days)

✔️ Application is entirely online and must be approved before travel (usually within 72 hours)

✔️ Linked to your passport electronically (no physical document needed)

✔️ Failure to show an ETA means denied boarding at departure

Common Israel ETA mistakes to avoid

Many UK travelers assume the process is simple, but even small errors in the application are leading to unnecessary rejections. Here are some of the biggest mistakes to watch out for:

1. Entering incorrect information or passport details

Your ETA is electronically linked to your passport, so a typo in your passport number, expiry date, or name means it won’t be recognized.

How to avoid it: Double-check all information before submitting.

2. Applying too late

Some travelers assume they can get an ETA at the last minute, but processing can take time. If your application is delayed, you may miss your flight.

How to avoid it: Apply at least a few days before departure, ideally as soon as you book your flights.

💡 Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, adds:

"While processing usually takes a few days, there's no guarantee in the current political landscape. Israel is strict, so apply as soon as you confirmed your travel plans."

3. Using a (soon-to-be) expired or damaged passport

Your ETA is only valid if your passport is too. If your passport is expiring soon or is damaged, you might be denied entry.

How to avoid it: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months from your date of arrival in Israel.

💡 Femke, iVisa travel expert, even recommends longer validity:

"As a rule of thumb, for any visa application or trip, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. This gives more flexibility when your travel plans change."

How we help UK travelers get their Israel ETA hassle-free

Applying for the Israel ETA can be confusing, but we make it simple. Here’s how we help:

Don’t let a small mistake ruin your trip, especially considering the newness of this document. Let us handle your ETA application, so you can focus on preparing for your journey to Israel.

How to apply for an Israel ETA as a UK traveler

Applying for an Israel ETA is a quick and straightforward online process. Just follow these steps:

1️⃣ Start your application

Start your application through the official Israel government portal, our user-friendly online service, or even on the go using our convenient mobile app.

You'll need to provide:

• Personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality)
• Passport information (including a scanned copy of the bio page, which must be valid for at least three months beyond your entry date) Travel details (arrival date, reason for visit)
• Contact information (email address)

2️⃣ Pay the government ETA fee and iVisa service fee

Choose your preferred secure payment method (credit/debit card, PayPal, or Venmo).

3️⃣ Receive your ETA approval

Most applications are processed within a few days, but to avoid last-minute stress, we recommend applying at least a week before departure.

💡 Femke, iVisa travel expert, recommends:

"Once approved, your ETA is electronically linked to your passport, but we recommend printing it too in case of technical difficulties."

Reasons you could be denied entry at the Israel border

Israel has strict security protocols, and travelers may be denied entry if border officers suspect a security risk. This can be based on:

🚫 Security concerns: Expect extra scrutiny in the case of previous visits to certain countries that do not have diplomatic ties with Israel (e.g., Iran, Lebanon, Syria).

Any involvement in political activism, inconsistent answers during security interviews, a job in media, or bringing drones or camera equipment can also raise questions.

💡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."

Check out our overview of 2025 entry rules for Israel on our blog, including info about border security, passport validity, and more.

🚫 Lack of required documents – Failure to provide proof of onward travel, accommodation, or sufficient funds (bank statements or proof of funds to cover your stay).

🚫 Previous immigration issues – Past visa overstays, deportations, or other violations may impact your entry approval.

💡Femke Strietman, iVisa travel expert, advises:

"Arrive at least 3 hours early for your flight to allow time for extra screening."

Need more info about the new Israel ETA rules?

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.