Passport Requirements for eTA Israel
Your passport is the most critical document for your eTA Israel application. The following requirements must be met:
- Validity – Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Israel. While Israel does not officially require 6 months of remaining validity, most airlines enforce this rule and may deny boarding.
- Machine-readable – Your passport should be a modern, machine-readable document. Older non-biometric passports may cause processing delays.
- Matching details – All information on your eTA Israel application must match your passport exactly, including full name, date of birth, and passport number.
Do I need a biometric passport for eTA Israel?
A biometric (e-passport) is not strictly required for the eTA Israel application. However, biometric passports speed up border processing at Israeli entry points. If you have a choice, a biometric passport is recommended.
Eligible Countries for eTA Israel
Citizens of approximately 96 visa-exempt countries can apply for an eTA Israel. The main eligible regions include:
North America
- United States
- Canada
Europe (EU/EEA and beyond)
- All 27 European Union member states
- United Kingdom
- Switzerland
- Norway
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
Asia-Pacific
- Japan
- South Korea
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- Hong Kong SAR
- Taiwan
Latin America and Caribbean
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Mexico
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Panama
- Uruguay
Other Regions
- South Africa
- Russia
- Ukraine
- Turkey (subject to specific conditions)
What if my country is not on the eligible list?
If your country is not on the visa-exempt list, you cannot apply for an eTA Israel. You must apply for a traditional visa through an Israeli embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Documents You Need for the eTA Israel Application
The eTA Israel application is entirely digital. You do not need to upload or mail any physical documents. However, you should have the following information readily available:
| Document/Information | Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport | Yes | Must be valid for trip duration |
| Passport number | Yes | Enter exactly as printed |
| Email address | Yes | For receiving approval |
| Phone number | Yes | Include country code |
| Residential address | Yes | Current home address |
| Travel dates | Yes | Estimated arrival date |
| Accommodation info | Yes | Hotel name or host address |
| Payment card | Yes | Visa or Mastercard |
| Passport scan/photo | No | Not required for application |
| Flight booking | No | Not required for application |
| Travel insurance | No | Not required but recommended |
Special Requirements for Different Traveler Types
Business Travelers
Business visitors use the same eTA Israel as tourists. No additional business documentation is required for the application. However, you may be asked about the purpose of your visit at the border.
Students
Students planning to study in Israel for more than 90 days need a student visa, not an eTA Israel. The eTA Israel is only for short-term stays up to 90 days.
Religious Pilgrims
Religious pilgrims and tourists visiting holy sites use the standard eTA Israel. No additional religious documentation is needed.
Journalists
Journalists may need to coordinate with the Israeli Government Press Office (GPO) before travel. While an eTA Israel covers entry, media accreditation is handled separately.
Do dual citizens need an eTA Israel?
If you hold Israeli citizenship alongside another nationality, you are exempt from the eTA Israel requirement. Israeli citizens enter Israel on their Israeli passport. If you are a dual citizen without Israeli citizenship, you need an eTA Israel using whichever passport you plan to travel on.
Health and Insurance Requirements
Israel does not require proof of health insurance for eTA Israel applicants. However, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Israeli medical care is excellent but expensive for uninsured visitors.
There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Israel from most countries. However, check the latest health advisories before travel as requirements can change.
Age Requirements
- Adults (18+) – Standard eTA Israel application
- Minors (under 18) – Each child needs their own eTA Israel application
- Infants – Even newborns need their own eTA Israel if they have their own passport
- Children on parent’s passport – If a child is included on a parent’s passport, they may be covered under the parent’s eTA Israel, but this varies. It is safest to apply separately for each traveler.
Financial Requirements
There is no minimum bank balance or financial requirement for the eTA Israel application. However, at the border, immigration officers may ask about your ability to fund your stay. Having access to sufficient funds (credit cards, cash, or bank statements) is advisable.
Background Check Criteria
The eTA Israel security screening evaluates:
- Criminal history
- Previous immigration violations in Israel or other countries
- Travel history to certain regions
- Previous visa denials or deportations
- Any security flags in international databases
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but serious offenses or those related to security concerns may result in denial.
How Requirements Differ from Other Countries
| Requirement | eTA Israel | US ESTA | Canada eTA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | 25 ILS (~$7) | $21 | CAD $7 |
| Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 5 years |
| Stay limit | 90 days | 90 days | 6 months |
| Passport validity | Trip duration | Trip duration | Trip duration |
| Payment methods | Visa/MC | Visa/MC/Amex | Visa/MC/Amex |
For more information on the application process, see our guide on How to Apply for eTA Israel.
