What Is the Israel ETA-IL?
The Israel ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel) is a mandatory digital pre-entry screening system introduced by the Israel Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA). It became required for all visa-exempt travelers on January 1, 2025, and remains in effect throughout 2026.
If you hold a passport from one of approximately 96 visa-exempt countries – including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and all EU member states – you must obtain an approved ETA-IL before you board your flight to Israel. Airlines verify the authorization at check-in, so having it in place before you reach the airport is essential.
The system is designed to streamline border security and pre-screen travelers electronically, similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA programs. It is not a visa, and it does not guarantee entry – final admission decisions rest with Israeli border officials. Learn more about what Israel ETA-IL is and how it works.
How ETA-IL Differs from a Visa
A traditional Israeli visa requires an in-person or consular application process, often taking weeks. The ETA-IL, by contrast, is a fully online process costing NIS 25 (~$7 USD) with decisions typically returned within 72 hours. It does not replace a visa for countries that require one – it is specifically for citizens of visa-exempt nations traveling for tourism, business, or short-term purposes. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on Israel ETA vs. Visa.
Who Needs an Israel ETA in 2026?
Any traveler from a visa-exempt country entering Israel for tourism, business, or short-term purposes (up to 90 days) must hold a valid ETA-IL. This requirement applies to every individual traveler, including children – parents or guardians submit the application on behalf of minors.
Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens of the following regions are eligible for ETA-IL (and therefore required to obtain one before travel):
- Europe: All EU member states, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and several Balkan and Eastern European countries
- North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
- South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay, Peru, and others
- Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, and others
- Middle East: United Arab Emirates (since the 2020 Abraham Accords)
- Africa: South Africa, Botswana, Mauritius, and select others
Check the full list of Israel ETA eligible countries to confirm your nationality qualifies.
Who Is Exempt from ETA-IL?
The following travelers do not need to obtain an ETA-IL:
- Israeli citizens and permanent residents (including dual nationals, who must enter on their Israeli passport)
- Travelers who already hold a valid Israeli visa (B/1, A/5, etc.)
- Citizens of countries not on the visa-exempt list (who must apply for a traditional visa instead)
Israel ETA-IL Requirements
Before starting your application, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and have all required documents ready. The full Israel ETA requirements are straightforward for most travelers.
Required Documents and Conditions
- Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned arrival date in Israel, with at least one blank page
- Email address: Used to receive your confirmation and approval
- Travel information: Intended arrival date and purpose of travel
- Credit card: For the NIS 25 application fee
- Not a prior Israeli visa holder: If you already have a valid Israeli visa, you do not need ETA-IL for that trip
At the border, you will also typically need a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or a host invitation letter), and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Travel insurance, while not always mandatory, is strongly recommended.
How to Apply for Israel ETA Online – Step by Step
The application process is entirely online and takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Always apply through the official portal to ensure your payment goes directly to the Israeli government and your data is secure.
- Go to the official portal: Visit israel-entry.piba.gov.il. Never use unofficial third-party sites that charge inflated fees.
- Fill in personal details: Enter your full name, nationality, date of birth, and passport number exactly as they appear on your passport biographic page.
- Provide travel information: Enter your intended arrival date, purpose of visit, and contact details including your email address and phone number.
- Complete security questions: Answer the standard background screening questions honestly.
- Pay the fee: Submit the NIS 25 (~$7 USD) fee by credit card. You will receive an instant payment receipt by email.
- Wait for approval: A decision email is typically sent within 72 hours – often within just a few hours. Check your inbox and spam folder.
- Save your approval: Keep a digital or printed copy of your ETA-IL approval to show at check-in and at the border if requested.
For more detailed guidance, see our complete how to apply for Israel ETA page.
Common Application Issues and How to Fix Them
If the application form keeps timing out, try switching to a different browser (Chrome or Firefox work best), clear your cache and cookies, or apply during off-peak hours when server load is lower. If the problem persists, email the official PIBA help desk at eta@piba.gov.il with a description of the issue and screenshots.
If you receive a “pending” status that does not update after 72 hours, check your spam folder first. If you cannot find an official email with a payment receipt, you may not have completed the transaction on the correct site. Contact the help desk to verify your submission status. For processing time details, visit our Israel ETA processing time guide.
Israel ETA Fee and Payment
The official government fee for ETA-IL is NIS 25, approximately $7 USD. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Payment is made by credit card at the end of the online form, and you should immediately receive a receipt email confirming the transaction.
Be cautious: many third-party websites advertise Israel ETA processing at significantly higher prices (sometimes $50-$100 or more). These are private services that submit the application on your behalf – they are not the official government portal. If you prefer guided assistance, only use reputable, transparent third-party services that clearly disclose their fees separate from the official NIS 25 government charge.
For a full breakdown of what you pay and what to watch out for, see our Israel ETA fee guide.
Israel ETA Processing Time and Validity
Most ETA-IL applications are approved within a few hours to 72 hours. There is no official expedited processing option – speed depends on submitting an accurate, complete application early. The Israeli government recommends applying at least 72 hours before your departure. During peak travel periods or when additional security checks are required, processing may take longer.
Once approved, your ETA-IL is valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. During this validity window, you can make multiple trips to Israel. Each individual visit is limited to a maximum of 90 days.
If your passport expires or you change your name, gender, or citizenship after receiving your ETA-IL, you must submit a new application with your updated passport. The ETA-IL is linked to the specific passport used during the application.
What Happens at the Border
Israel’s security and immigration procedures are among the most thorough in the world. At Ben Gurion Airport, travelers should arrive at least 3 hours before departure. Arriving passengers proceed through passport control on Level G of Terminal 3.
Travelers with an approved ETA-IL may use Automated Border Control (ABC) kiosks for faster processing – a significant advantage over standard immigration queues. Border officers may ask about your purpose of visit, accommodation, and length of stay. Answer clearly and honestly.
One important fact many travelers miss: Israel has not stamped passports at airports or most land borders since 2013. Instead, all visitors receive an Electronic Gate Pass – a small blue slip containing your biometric data, entry date, visa category, and a barcode. Keep this card safe for the duration of your stay, as you will need it for hotel check-ins, car rentals, and departure verification.
Extending Your Stay Beyond 90 Days
If you need to remain in Israel for longer than 90 days, you must apply for a B/2 visitor extension through a PIBA office inside Israel before your initial 90-day period expires. This requires:
- An in-person appointment at a Population and Immigration Authority office
- Supporting documents (proof of accommodation, onward travel plans, funds)
- A government fee of approximately 195 ILS, paid locally
Extensions are granted at the discretion of immigration authorities and are not guaranteed. Overstaying your permitted period without an approved extension can result in fines, detention, or a future entry ban. For guidance on this and other special cases, visit our Israel entry requirements 2026 page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ETA to travel to Israel in 2026?
Yes. Since January 1, 2025, all travelers from visa-exempt countries must obtain an Israel ETA-IL before boarding their flight. The authorization is mandatory and must be approved before departure – not on arrival.
How much does the Israel ETA-IL cost?
The official government fee is NIS 25, approximately $7 USD. Payment is made by credit card at the end of the online application. You will immediately receive a payment receipt by email. Be cautious of third-party websites that charge significantly more.
How long does it take to get an Israel ETA approved?
Most applicants receive a decision within 72 hours – often within a few hours of submission. There is no official expedited processing. Apply at least 72 hours before your departure to avoid any last-minute issues.
How long is the Israel ETA-IL valid?
The ETA-IL is valid for 2 years from the date of approval, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. During that period, you can make multiple trips to Israel, staying up to 90 days per visit.
Do children need to apply for Israel ETA-IL?
Yes. All travelers from visa-exempt countries must hold an approved ETA-IL before departure, regardless of age. Parents or guardians submit the application on behalf of minors, ensuring passport details match exactly.
What happens if the Israel ETA application form keeps timing out?
Try switching browsers or devices and clearing your cache. Applying during off-peak hours can also help. If problems persist, contact the official help desk at eta@piba.gov.il with a description and screenshots of the issue.
Can I extend my stay in Israel beyond 90 days?
Yes, but it requires a separate process. You must request a B/2 visitor extension at a Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) office inside Israel. This requires an appointment, supporting documents, and a government fee of approximately 195 ILS, paid locally.
