Israel ETA-IL for US Citizens: Your Essential Travel Guide

Q: What if my ETA-IL application is denied?

If your ETA-IL application is denied, you should contact the nearest Israeli embassy or consulate for further information, as you may need to apply for a formal B/2 visa to travel.

Traveling to Israel has a new entry requirement. The Israeli government has introduced a new digital travel permit, officially named the Electronic Travel Authorisation to Israel (ETA-IL). For U.S. citizens, this is now mandatory for travel to Israel.

Think of it like the ESTA program for visiting the United States; it's a quick, online pre-screening that links directly to your passport, helping to streamline your arrival at the Israeli border. This guide cuts through the confusion, giving you the facts you need to get your Israel ETA-IL quickly and accurately.

What is an ETA-IL?

An ETA-IL is a digital permit to travel to Israel. It is not a visa. It confirms you are eligible to travel to Israel for short stays, such as tourism or business. Once approved, it is electronically attached to your U.S. passport.

Do I Need an ETA-IL?

As a U.S. citizen, yes, you will need an ETA-IL for short visits to Israel.

You must get an ETA-IL if you are:

Traveling for tourism, family visits, or business meetings for up to 90 days per visit.
A citizen of a visa-exempt country (including the U.S.).

Note: You do not need an ETA-IL if you already have a valid Israeli visa or are an Israeli citizen/holder of an Israeli identity number.

Every foreign traveler, including children and infants, must have their own individual ETA-IL.

Applying for Your ETA-IL: DIY vs. Full-Service

When it comes to getting your Israel ETA-IL, you have a choice in how you apply. It's important to know that the official processing time set by the Israeli government is the same for all applications and cannot be expedited. The difference is the application experience itself.

Applying On Your Own (DIY): For travelers comfortable navigating government websites and forms, applying directly through the official Israeli portal is the most cost-effective method.
The Full-Service Route (Simple and Secure): 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.

The Official ETA-IL Process: A 3-Step Guide

The ETA-IL program became mandatory on January 1, 2025. The official process is designed to be fast and user-friendly. It is recommended that you apply at least 72 hours before booking your flight or other travel expenses.

Official Gov. Fee:	25 ILS (Israeli New Shekel), approximately $7 USD (non-refundable)
Validity:	2 Years (or until your passport expires)
Use:	Multiple entries are permitted during its validity, with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.

Step 1: Get Your Information Ready

Your valid U.S. passport (must be valid for at least 3 months from your date of arrival).
An active email address.
A credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment method for the fee.
Employer or occupation details.
Contact information and travel history.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Access the ETA-IL application form on the official government website or use an accredited service like iVisa.
Enter travel and personal details.
Answer questions about your background and eligibility.
Provide your passport information.

Step 3: Submit and Receive Your ETA-IL

Pay the non-refundable 25 ILS fee ($7 USD).
Double-check all your information for accuracy. Once submitted, you cannot correct the form and will need to fill out a new one.
Submit your application.
Decision Timeline: You will usually get a decision on your ETA-IL application within 72 hours. Most applicants receive a much quicker decision, often within minutes or a few hours.
Once approved, you will receive a confirmation email with your ETA-IL number.
Your approved ETA-IL is digitally linked to your passport. There is no need to print or carry a physical document.

Beyond the ETA-IL: Other Israel Entry Requirements

Your approved Israel ETA-IL permits you to travel to Israel, but you still need to meet the standard entry requirements at the border. An approved ETA-IL does not guarantee entry to Israel. Border control officers have the final say on admission.

Be prepared to show (as requested):

Valid Passport: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your date of arrival.
Onward Travel/Return Home: Proof that you intend to leave Israel at the end of your visit (e.g., a return flight confirmation).
Proof of Funds: Evidence that you can financially support yourself during your trip.

Israel ETA-IL Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is an ETA-IL the same as a visa?

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 longer stays or non-tourism purposes (like work or study).

What if my ETA-IL application is denied?

If your ETA-IL application is denied, you will be notified. You should contact the nearest Israeli embassy or consulate for further information, as you may need to apply for a formal B/2 visa to travel.

Can I use an ETA-IL to stay longer than 90 days?

No. The ETA-IL permits a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. If you wish to stay longer, you must request an extension of stay from the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) while in Israel.

I made a mistake on my ETA application. Can I fix it?

No. Once the application is submitted, you cannot correct the information. You will need to submit a new application and pay the fee again.

How long does my passport need to be valid to enter Israel?

Your passport only needs to be valid for 3 months beyond your departure date. However, it’s always best to keep at least 6 months of validity on your passport to avoid being denied entry to countries with similar requirements.

Do I need an ETA-IL if I'm a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen?

No. Israeli citizens or holders of an Israeli identity number do not need to apply for an ETA-IL. You should enter and exit the country using your Israeli identity documents.

Apply for your Israel ETA-IL quickly and securely with iVisa today! Save your application and continue anytime, enjoy expert review, 24/7 multilingual support, flexible payment options, and complete confidence in your travel documents.