Israel ETA FAQ | Helpful and Updated Answers for 2025

What is the Israel ETA-IL?

The Israeli ETA – also known as the eTA or e-visa – is a new visa waiver program that is being introduced to Israel.

As of 2025, all visitors from visa-exempt countries now need to follow a quick and simple online application process to gain authorization to enter the country. The travel document they receive digitally is what is known as the ETA-IL.

Who needs an ETA-IL to enter Israel?

Short-term travelers (up to 90 days) from eligible countries require an ETA-IL. The countries eligible for the Israeli ETA are the same ones which prior to 2025 did not require a visa or documentation of any kind to enter Israel.

The full list of visa-exempt countries can be found here. If your country of citizenship appears on this list, you will be required to fill out the ETA-IL form and await approval before you depart.

Do children need an Israel ETA?

Yes. All travelers need to have the appropriate approval and documentation before they enter, from newborn babies to senior citizens.

Does the ETA-IL grant permission to work in Israel?

No. The Israeli ETA is intended for short-term visitors only. It does not permit work, study or long-term residency in Israel. Those found working for pay while in Israel on the ETA-IL may face penalties.

What does it mean to have an Israel ETA authorization?

Receiving ETA-IL authorization allows you to travel to Israel if your passport is from a visa-exempt country. It permits a stay of up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you must request an extension.

Does the ETA-IL grant me entry into other countries?

No. The ETA for Israel is specific to Israel. All other countries have their own entry requirements, which you will need to check separately.

Do I need an Israel ETA for short term study?

For short-term study programs (up to 90 days), you can apply for an ETA-IL. For longer study durations, a student visa is required.

How do I apply for an Israel ETA?

You can apply for Israel’s new e-visa online. Our application portal is streamlined for maximum ease and accessibility. Simply enter your details and wait for your ETA-IL to be emailed to you by Israeli authorities.

What documents do I need to apply?

The most important document is a valid passport – make sure it will be in date when you fly.

How long does it take to apply for an Israel ETA?

If you are organized and load the form with your personal details and passport on hand, the application can take less than 10 minutes.

I have submitted my Israel ETA, when will I receive my digital copy?

You should receive a confirmation of your submission immediately. In terms of when you can expect to receive approval – usually it is done within just a few days, but allow up to a week.

Can I get an ETA-IL on arrival?

No. The ETA-IL must be submitted and approved before you depart. Entering Israel without the ETA-IL means entering without the necessary travel approval.

Do not confuse the Israeli ETA with visa on arrival – it is an entirely different system and needs to be done in advance.

Can I apply for an Israel ETA without a biometric passport?

Yes, holders of both biometric and non-biometric passports can apply for an ETA-IL. Moldovan citizens with biometric passports are exempt from a B2 visitor visa and can apply for an ETA-IL.

Can I apply for an ETA-IL with a passport close to expiration?

We do not recommend it. Ideally, your passport will be valid for at least six months after your date of departure.

Do I need to carry my ETA on me while in Israel?

You will need to have access to your ETA-IL while in Israel, as you are likely to be asked to present it to border guards. You can print out a physical copy or simply show it on your smartphone screen when asked.

Can I apply for an ETA-IL with dual citizenship?

Yes. Simply apply using whichever passport you intend to travel with.

How can I correct a mistake in my application?

After submission, corrections aren’t possible, and you will need to fill out a new form.

I have multiple citizenships, but not all are eligible for an ETA-IL. Can I still apply?

Yes. If you are a citizen of any approved country, you may apply for the ETA-IL. However, you will be required to declare all your other citizenships on the application form.

I am an Israeli dual national, do I still need to apply?

No. Continue using your Israeli passport to enter and leave the country as per usual.

In which cases should I apply for a new ETA if I already have a valid one?

You need to submit a new ETA-IL application if you get a new passport, or if you change your name, gender, or country of citizenship.

Can I extend my ETA, when I need to stay longer in Israel?

No, you cannot extend your ETA-IL. If you wish to stay for longer, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa through the official channels.

Can I enter Israel multiple times with an approved ETA-IL?

Yes, you can return to Israel for as long as your ETA-IL and the passport you initially used it with are valid.

How long is the Israel ETA valid?

The period of validity for the ETA for Israel is 2 years. However, this is only for stays of up to three months (90 days). The Israeli e-visa does not authorize you to stay in Israel for any longer than this period consecutively.

Can I change my travel dates even after my ETA-IL got approved?

Your ETA-IL’s validity is not dependent on your travel plans. As long as both the ETA-IL itself and the passport you initially registered it with are valid, you are free to change your travel dates and do not need to apply for a new e-visa.

What should I do if I want to stay in Israel for more than 3 months?

An ETA-IL permits a stay of up to 90 days. For a longer stay, you must apply for an extension following PIBA procedures.

Can I be denied entry with an approved Israel ETA?

A valid ETA-IL does not guarantee entry to Israel. Border control officers can deny entry based on Israeli law and PIBA regulations.

Will airlines require a copy of my ETA before boarding?

While PIBA doesn’t mandate airlines to ask for printed confirmation, it’s advisable to have the confirmation number or a printed copy according to the airline’s guidelines.

Why was my Israel ETA application rejected?

Your ETA-IL may be delayed or rejected if your application details were incorrect, incomplete or intentionally omitted. It may also be rejected if you have a serious criminal background or have a history of violating the terms of your stay in Israel before.

My previous ETA was denied, can I still apply for a new one?

Yes, you can. However, you may risk being denied again for the same reasons. Make sure to address the issues in your application before submitting a new one. In some cases, you may need to apply for a traditional visa.

Is the ETA for Israel refundable if my travel plans change?

No. However, the application fee for the ETA-IL is reasonable, and once approved, your authorization remains valid for up to 2 years. This lets you reschedule your visit.

Can my ETA-IL approval be revoked during its validity?

Yes, an ETA-IL can be revoked for immigration or security reasons during its validity, which lasts two years or until your passport expires. You will be notified by email if this happens.