Israel Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Q: Q: How long can I stay in Israel with the ETA-IL?

A: The standard stay permitted for U.S. citizens is up to 90 days per visit.

If you are planning a trip to Israel, you need to follow a few mandatory rules to ensure a smooth entry and stay.

The most important rules concern obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) and ensuring your U.S. passport meets the strict validity rules.

This guide covers all the important steps and rules for U.S. citizens visiting Israel.

Quick Summary: Israel Entry Rules

Feature	Detail
Electronic Authorization	ETA-IL is mandatory (Check the official ETA-IL website for status).
Passport Validity	Must be valid for at least 90 days from entry (6 months recommended for airlines).
Maximum Stay	Up to 90 days per visit (visa-exempt stay).
Entry Warning	Israeli Border Control determines the final decision on entry.
Documentation	Routine vaccines are not required for entry.

In a hurry? Apply online to get your visa, e-visa, ETA or eVOA fast.

U.S. Passport & ETA-IL Requirements

Before you book your flight to Israel, ensure that your US passport meets the requirements and that you have obtained your Israel ETA-IL.

U.S. Passport Validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least 90 days (3 months) from the date you arrive in Israel. However, many airlines strictly require 6 months’ validity to board. We strongly recommend renewing if you are close to the 6-month mark.

Blank Pages: It is strongly recommended that your US passport have at least one blank page for the entry/exit stamps when visiting Israel.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL):

Mandatory: U.S. citizens who are visa-exempt must obtain an ETA-IL before traveling to Israel.
Purpose: The ETA-IL is for visits up to 90 days for tourism or business.
Cost: 25 NIS (approx. $7 USD) starting January 1, 2025.
Approval: You must apply online and be approved before you travel.

Israel Entry Procedures

You need to be ready to present proof of your travel plans and understand what to expect when proceeding through Israel’s security checks.

Final Entry Decision:

Border Control: Approval of your ETA-IL does not guarantee entry. Israeli border control officials have the final say on whether to admit you and how long you can stay.
Passport Stamps: Israel usually issues a small entry card instead of stamping your passport directly. However, you must still have at least one blank page in your passport.

Security and Checkpoints: Be prepared for security checkpoints and questions when entering Israel, the West Bank, and when crossing borders. Always carry your U.S. passport and any permits you have when moving between areas.

Currency Declaration: You must declare cash or currency above set limits to Israeli Customs upon entry or exit by air or land.

Entry Requirements for Specific Locations in Israel

Entry requirements for Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, Jordan & Allenby/King Hussein Bridge can change quickly due to security conditions. Check and verify all entry requirements right before you travel.

West Bank

Access: If entering via Israel, you are subject to Israeli border control. No separate U.S. visa beyond what is required for Israel (including ETA-IL).
Movement: Expect checkpoints, possible road closures, and changing security conditions. Carry your passport and any permits at all times.
Palestinian-Americans: As of January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens listed in the Palestinian Population Registry for Judea & Samaria must apply for a US Tourist Permit via the ETA-IL system to enter Israel.

Gaza Strip

Travel is strongly discouraged for tourists. Entry is highly restricted.
Erez Crossing (Israel-Gaza): Permits are rarely granted and generally limited to narrowly defined humanitarian, official, or press reasons.
Rafah Crossing (Egypt-Gaza): Operations are limited and unpredictable; separate Egyptian permissions are required when open.

Jordan

US Passport validity: Jordan requires at least 6 months’ validity beyond your entry date.
Visa: U.S. citizens need a Jordan visa. Visas on arrival (VoA) are available at many entry points (Cost: ~40 JOD / $56.50 USD), but not at the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge.
Tip: Consider purchasing the Jordan Pass in advance if you plan to stay 3+ nights, as it waives the visa fee.

Using an Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer to save time and have complete confidence that their application is error-free, a dedicated service is a great option. iVisa simplifies the process with a clear interface and provides an expert review of your application before it's submitted. This helps eliminate common mistakes that could lead to delays or denial. You also get 24/7 multilingual support, flexible payment options, and the ability to manage documents for hundreds of destinations worldwide.

For more details on how to obtain your Jordan Visa, please visit our page: Jordan Visa Options for U.S. Citizens: Pass, VoA, and E-Visa.

Allenby / King Hussein Bridge (Jordan/the West Bank/Israel)

Jordanian visa at the Bridge: Not issued on arrival. Obtain a Jordanian visa in advance (unless you hold an official/diplomatic passport, which has different rules).
Exit/entry fees: Expect border fees on departure/entry on both sides.
Multiple entry to Jordan: If you already hold a valid (and, if needed, multiple-entry) Jordanian visa, you may re-enter via the Bridge while it remains valid.
Operating hours & closures: Hours, capacity, and procedures can change with little notice due to security conditions. Always verify the same-day status before traveling to the crossing.

In a hurry? Apply online to get your visa, e-visa, ETA, or eVOA fast.

Important Notes & Warnings

Security situation: Conditions in and around Gaza, parts of the West Bank, and some border areas can change rapidly (e.g., closures, curfews, movement restrictions). See Travel Advisory
Transport disruptions: Flights and land crossings may be reduced, delayed, or temporarily closed. Be prepared for last-minute travel changes.
Special cases: Travelers with Palestinian Authority IDs or dual nationality may be subject to different procedures and approval systems; check specific rules before travel.
Traveling with Minors: Minors must have their own valid US passport and ETA-IL. If a child is traveling alone or with only one parent, they must carry a notarized consent letter from the parent or guardian who is not traveling with them.
Always re-check: Confirm requirements (i.e., ETA-IL status, visas, border hours) close to your travel date.

In a hurry? Apply online to get your visa, e-visa, ETA or eVOA fast.

Essential Travel Resources for Your Trip to Israel

Travel Insurance – Protect your trip with trusted, affordable coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and more.
Flights & Hotels – Find the best deals on flights and accommodations worldwide with Booking.com’s powerful search engine.
Tours & Local Experiences – Discover unforgettable experiences with top-rated local tours and activities in every destination.
eSIMs & Phone Plans – Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data plans—no physical SIM card required.
Luggage & Travel Gear from Amazon's Best Sellers – Shop the most popular backpacks, luggage, and travel accessories travelers swear by.
Rocket Languages Award-Winning Courses – Learn a new language fast with immersive, self-paced courses loved by travelers.
Registered Passport Courier Services – Need your passport fast? Use trusted expediters to save time and avoid stress.

Israel Entry Requirements Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Israel?

A: No, not a traditional visa. U.S. citizens are visa-exempt but must obtain the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before traveling to Israel.

Q: Is an ETA the same as a visa?

A: No. An ETA-IL is a quick, online pre-screening that authorizes you to travel to Israel for short, visa-exempt stays. A visa is a formal entry document required for stays of more than 90 days or non-tourist purposes (such as work or study).

Q: How long can I stay in Israel with the ETA-IL?

A: The standard stay permitted for U.S. citizens is up to 90 days per visit.

Q: Does my passport need 6 months' validity?

A: Israel requires validity for at least 90 days from entry, but airlines often require 6 months. It is strongly recommended to have at least 6 months of validity.

Q: Where can I get a Jordan Visa?

A: You can get a visa for Jordan at most international airports and land borders, but NOT at the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing. You must obtain your Jordanian visa in advance if you plan to use that specific bridge.

If you choose to obtain your Jordan Visa in advance, we highly recommend using an assisted service like iVisa. iVisa can ensure you complete and submit the correct, error-free application to avoid delays or denials.

Q: What is the rule for minors (children) traveling alone?

A: Minors must have their own valid passport and ETA-IL. And, if a child is traveling alone or with only one parent, they must carry a notarized consent letter from the parent or guardian who is not traveling with them.

Need a simple, reliable way to apply for your Israel ETA-IL or Jordan Visa?

Start your Israel ETA-IL and/or Jordan Visa applications quickly and securely with iVisa today!

Let the experts help you navigate the process and ensure your travel documents are perfect!