Understanding Israel ETA validity is essential for planning trips to Israel in 2026. The ETA-IL grants a generous 2-year window with multiple entries, but specific per-visit rules must be followed to avoid overstay violations. This guide explains exactly how the authorization works, when it expires, and what to do when it does.
ETA-IL Validity Period
Every approved Israel ETA-IL is valid for 2 years from the date of issue (not from the date of first entry). This means:
- Apply in April 2026 → valid until April 2028
- Multiple trips to Israel are allowed within those 2 years
- No per-trip re-application needed during the valid period
This compares favorably with the US ESTA (2 years) and Canada’s eTA (5 years). For background on the ETA system, see what is Israel ETA.
Per-Visit Stay Limit: 90 Days
While the ETA is valid for 2 years, each individual trip to Israel is limited to 90 days maximum. This means:
- You can visit Israel as many times as you wish during the 2-year period
- But each stay cannot exceed 90 consecutive days
- You must leave Israel and re-enter for each new visit
There is no specific “90-day cooldown” between visits, but Israeli border officials can refuse entry if they believe a pattern of extended visits effectively amounts to residency.
Entry Stamps and the 90-Day Count
Your 90-day allowance begins on the day you enter Israel and ends 90 days later. The Israeli immigration system tracks entry and exit dates electronically. Israel has largely moved away from physical passport stamps, so your record is maintained digitally by PIBA.
When Your ETA Expires
Two scenarios:
ETA expires before your next trip
Simply apply for a new ETA-IL at israel-entry.piba.gov.il. Pay NIS 25 and receive a fresh 2-year authorization. See our application guide.
ETA expires during a trip
If your ETA-IL expires while you are already in Israel, this does not affect your current legally authorized stay. Your stay is governed by your 90-day limit from entry, not the ETA expiry date. You simply need a new ETA for your next trip.
Passport Renewal and ETA
The ETA is linked to a specific passport number. If you renew your passport before your ETA expires, the old ETA becomes invalid because it is tied to your old passport number. You must apply for a new ETA using your new passport details before your next trip. See ETA requirements for passport rules.
Overstaying Your 90-Day Limit
Overstaying is a serious immigration violation in Israel. Consequences include:
- Fines imposed at departure
- Possible detention
- Deportation
- Entry ban for future visits
Always track your entry date and ensure you depart before day 90. If you need to extend your stay for legitimate reasons (illness, family emergency), contact PIBA or the nearest immigration office in Israel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Israel ETA valid?
The Israel ETA-IL is valid for 2 years from the date of issue. During this period you may enter Israel multiple times.
How long can I stay in Israel per visit with ETA?
Up to 90 days per individual visit. This is the maximum continuous stay per entry, not the total for the 2-year period.
Can I extend my Israel ETA?
The ETA itself is not extendable beyond 2 years – you apply for a new one when it expires. If you want to stay in Israel longer than 90 days, you must apply for a different visa or permit.
What happens if my ETA expires during a trip?
The ETA expiry date does not affect an ongoing authorized stay. If you entered legally with a valid ETA, you may stay until your 90-day stay limit expires, even if the ETA expires mid-trip.
Do I need a new ETA if I renew my passport?
Yes. The ETA is linked to a specific passport number. Getting a new passport means you must apply for a new ETA before your next trip.
Can I re-enter Israel multiple times on one ETA?
Yes. The ETA-IL allows multiple entries over its 2-year validity, as long as each stay does not exceed 90 days.
