In a surprising move, Israel has begun charging an entry fee for all visitors, including those from visa-exempt countries

In a surprising move, Israel has begun charging an entry fee for all visitors, including those from visa-exempt countries. While it’s true that similar measures have been adopted by several Western nations, tourism to Israel has plummeted by more than 80 percent since the war’s outbreak. Critics argue that introducing an additional bureaucratic hurdle might deter the very visitors the country is desperate to attract.

The government clarified that the implementation of the system, called ETA-IL, had been decided well before the war began. Still, they opted not to delay its rollout. Here’s a  breakdown of what you need to know.

What is ETA-IL?

Israel’s Electronic Travel Authorization. Travelers must complete an application before their trip, receive electronic approval, and present their ETA-IL upon arrival.

Who Needs to Apply?

All visitors, even those from visa-exempt countries, are required to obtain an ETA-IL to enter Israel. Every individual, regardless of age, must obtain an ETA-IL. Minors cannot apply independently; an adult must submit the application on their behalf.

The Numbers:

The ETA-Il costs $6.80, that’s (25 shekels) per person. Technically, applications may be submitted any time before departure. However, the Population and Immigration Authority recommends submitting the application at least 72 hours before booking flights and hotels. The ETA-IL is valid for two years and allows multiple entries during that time frame. The maximum stay per visit is 90 days.

Why Implement ETA-IL?

The primary goal of the ETA-IL system is to prescreen travelers and identify potential threats or individuals likely to violate visa restrictions. Screening visitors before they arrive aims to ensure smoother, safer entry into the country. The Population and Immigration Authority emphasizes that holding a valid ETA-IL does not guarantee entry into Israel. All travelers arriving at Ben Gurion Airport remain subject to standard border control checks.

Who Doesn’t Need ETA-IL?

Israeli citizens or permanent residents: Anyone holding a valid Israeli ID number is exempt.

Visa holders: Foreign citizens with valid Israeli visas (e.g., B1, B3, B4, A1, A2, A3, A4, A5) are not required to apply.

Which Countries Have Similar Systems?

The United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have implemented comparable systems. The European Union is also considering adopting one in the near future.

How to Apply?

Applications can be completed online at: www.israel-entry.piba.gov.il

Recommendations

Rabbi Paysach Freedman, CEO of Chaim V’Chessed, emphasizes the following key points:

If you plan to travel in the near future, it’s best to apply for the ETA-IL as soon as possible. Doing so doesn’t entail any commitment.

Be wary of websites that seem legitimate but are merely scams designed to steal private information, or those posing as agents who claim to handle the process for an exorbitant fee. The application is remarkably straightforward, and there’s no real reason to hire someone to do it for you. Only use the official website.

Experience shows that initial phases of such programs often come with confusion or errors on the part of security agents. Therefore, even those technically exempt from the ETA-IL would do well to obtain it to avoid unnecessary stress at the airport.

“We don’t think it’s wise to introduce any bureaucratic burden when coming to Israel. It is not something that people are considering easily. Right now, we need to be as open as we can. While we understand that it is a procedure many countries are introducing, it should not be implemented right now in Israel.”

—Yossi Fatael, director general of the Israel Inbound Tour Operators Association

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 1044)