Applying for an Israel ETA online takes less than 10 minutes. Since the ETA-IL became mandatory on January 1, 2025, every eligible traveler from a visa-exempt country must complete the application before departure. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process – from opening the official portal to receiving your approval.
Before You Start: What You Need
Gather the following before beginning your application:
- A valid passport from an eligible country (must be valid for the duration of your stay)
- Your email address (authorization will be sent here)
- A credit or debit card to pay the NIS 25 (~$7) fee
- Basic travel details: planned entry date, purpose of visit
Not sure if your country is eligible? Check the complete list of eligible countries first. Also review the Israel ETA requirements to ensure your passport and documents are in order.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1 – Open the Official Portal
Go to israel-entry.piba.gov.il – the official portal operated by Israel’s Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA). This is the only legitimate government website for ETA-IL applications. Third-party services exist but charge significantly more for the same result.
Step 2 – Select Your Nationality and Travel Purpose
Choose your passport-issuing country from the dropdown menu and select the purpose of your visit: tourism, transit, or business. The form will adjust to show the relevant fields for your application type. Learn more about the different Israel ETA types available.
Step 3 – Enter Personal and Passport Details
Fill in the required fields accurately:
- Full name (exactly as shown on passport)
- Date of birth
- Passport number, issue date, and expiry date
- Country of birth and nationality
- Contact email address
- Intended date of entry
Double-check every entry – errors can cause delays or require a new application. The name and passport number must match exactly what is printed in your travel document.
Step 4 – Answer Security Questions
The system will ask a short series of security and eligibility questions. These cover prior travel history, criminal record, and health declarations. Answer honestly and accurately.
Step 5 – Pay the Application Fee
The fee is NIS 25 (approximately $7 USD). Payment is processed securely by credit or debit card. Once payment is confirmed, your application is submitted. For full details on the fee, see our Israel ETA fee guide.
Step 6 – Receive Your Authorization
Most applications are processed within a few hours. The official maximum processing time is 72 hours. You will receive the authorization decision by email. The ETA-IL is linked electronically to your passport – no printing needed. Check our processing time guide for more detail.
Applying for Multiple Travelers
Families and groups can apply through a single session on the official portal. Each person – including children – needs their own separate ETA-IL authorization. Each application carries its own NIS 25 fee.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
- Name mismatch – Enter your name exactly as it appears in your passport, including middle names if shown
- Wrong passport number – The ETA is tied to a specific passport; if you renew your passport, you need a new ETA
- Leaving it too late – Apply at least 72 hours before departure; aim for 1-2 weeks in advance
- Using unofficial sites – Only apply at israel-entry.piba.gov.il
After Approval: What to Do
Once your ETA-IL is approved:
- Save the confirmation email
- Check that the passport details on the authorization match your actual passport
- Carry your passport (and optionally the email) when you travel
- At check-in, the airline will verify your ETA electronically
Review Israel ETA validity rules to understand how long your authorization remains active.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for Israel ETA online?
Visit israel-entry.piba.gov.il, complete the form with your passport details, pay NIS 25, and submit. You will receive the authorization by email, usually within 72 hours.
Can I apply for Israel ETA on behalf of a family member?
Yes. One applicant can submit applications for multiple family members during a single session on the official portal.
What happens if my Israel ETA is denied?
If your ETA is denied you may re-apply or contact the Israeli embassy in your country. A denial does not mean permanent ineligibility.
How early should I apply for Israel ETA?
Apply at least 72 hours before departure. Applying 1-2 weeks in advance gives extra buffer in case of queries or delays.
Do I need to print my Israel ETA?
No. The authorization is stored electronically and linked to your passport number. Airlines and border officials verify it digitally.
Is the PIBA portal the only official site?
Yes. israel-entry.piba.gov.il is the sole official government portal. Any other site is a third-party service that may charge additional fees.
