Are There Extra Fees at the Border with an Israel ETA?
If you’re planning a trip to Israel and have already applied for your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), you might be wondering if there are additional fees at the border when you arrive. The Israel ETA IL application has made the entry process easier for eligible travelers, but you might wonder if there is any additional costs at the border.
The Israel ETA Fee – What Does It Cover?
When applying for the Israel ETA, you pay the processing fee online. This fee covers the cost of reviewing and approving your application, as well as the electronic linkage of your ETA-IL to your passport. Once approved, you receive an ETA that allows you entry to Israel for tourism or short-term business purposes.
However, this fee does not cover certain entry-related charges that may apply once you reach the border, as the ETA is a separate document from other entry fees or taxes.
Border Fees – What Travelers Should Know
Israel does not charge additional “entry fees” at the border for tourists who hold a valid ETA-IL. However, there are a few specific scenarios and fees that may apply depending on your itinerary:
Departure Tax: If you are traveling by land from Israel to neighboring countries like Jordan or Egypt, there may be a departure tax upon exiting Israel. This is generally charged to travelers regardless of their nationality or visa status. The departure tax can vary but typically ranges around $30 to $50 USD. It’s worth noting that this fee is charged upon leaving, not upon entering, and some tour packages may already include it.
Airport Improvement Fees: While not charged directly at the border, certain improvement fees are sometimes included in the price of international airfare tickets. This fee contributes to the maintenance and development of Israel’s major airports. Check with your airline to see if any such fees have been added to your ticket price.
Special Cases: In rare situations, travelers with certain nationalities may need to pay additional fees or follow specific procedures upon entry due to diplomatic or regional agreements. It’s best to confirm with the Israeli embassy or consulate if this applies to you.
Are There Fees for Extended Stays?
The Israel ETA is valid for 2 years for multiple entries, but some travelers may wish to extend their ETA-IL while they are already in Israel. While the ETA itself does not allow for an automatic extension, you may be able to apply for an extension within Israel at an immigration office. This extension often comes with additional administrative fees, which vary depending on the length and purpose of the extended stay.
Currency and Payment at the Border
If you do incur fees, such as the departure tax for land border crossings, payment can typically be made in cash (usually in Israeli Shekels, USD, or local currency, depending on the border) or sometimes by credit card. However, it’s a good idea to carry cash in case certain payment methods are not accepted at smaller border points.
Preparing for Smooth Entry with an Israel ETA
Confirm Policies: Double-check entry and exit requirements specific to your travel route, especially if you plan on crossing any land borders.
Keep Extra Cash Handy: Having a small amount of cash in shekels or USD can be helpful for unexpected fees or small expenses at the border.
Verify with Your Airline: Airlines sometimes include improvement fees or taxes in the ticket price, so it’s wise to confirm if these charges are covered before departing.
