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Israel Entry Requirements - Required Travel Documents for Travel to Israel

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Latest Information for U.S. Citizens

Information for U.S. Citizens in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza

U.S. citizens should heed the  Travel Advisory  for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. The U.S. Embassy continues to closely monitor the dynamic security situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. There are active military operations and active rocket and mortar fire in Gaza and the Gaza periphery.  Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. If you require emergency assistance while in Israel, the West Bank or Gaza, contact the  U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem  by email ([email protected]).

Individuals seeking to depart Gaza  through the Rafah crossing into Egypt should monitor the  Palestinian General Authority for Crossings and Borders’ Facebook Page  for a list of those approved to cross. U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or immediate family (as listed below) who desire our assistance and have not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at  [email protected]  with a copy of the individual’s travel document as well as an explanation or proof of relationship.

The U.S. government does not control the crossing lists nor determine who is permitted to depart Gaza or enter Egypt. Individuals must assess their own safety and risks in attempting to cross the border. Individuals permitted to enter Egypt will likely receive a 72-hour Egyptian visa; all those who cross should have a plan for onward travel from Egypt in this timeframe. U.S. citizens, LPRs and their immediate family members who successfully enter Egypt and require further consular assistance should contact the  U.S. Embassy in Cairo  via the  U.S. Citizens Services Navigator .  Individuals may apply for a U.S. visa at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate; U.S. immigration laws and regulations will apply.

If a name has appeared on a crossing list since November 1, we understand those individuals will be permitted to cross as long as the border remains open for foreign nationals. We urge U.S. citizens, LPRs, and their immediate family members who have appeared on one of these lists to cross as soon as possible – there is no guarantee the border will remain open. We continue to work in partnership with Egypt and Israel towards safe passage for U.S. citizens, LPRs, and their immediate family members.

Immediate family members of U.S. citizens include:

• unmarried children under the age of 21, and
• parents of U.S. citizens.

If the U.S. citizen is under 21, immediate family will also include any siblings who are also unmarried and under 21.

Immediate family members of LPRs include:

• unmarried children under 21 years of age.

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Before You Go: What to Know About Entering and Exiting Israel

After a recent TPG trip to Israel , many readers messaged us with questions about visiting the country. There were, of course, questions about hotels, flights, attractions and food. But a majority of the queries had to do with the logistics of flying into and out of the nation.

Many travelers aren't sure if they're even able to enter Israel, and are concerned about passport stamps, visas and airport security. Here, we'll detail some of the most important things you need to know about entering and exiting Israel.

While these tips are specifically for US passport holders, most of the information can be applied to travelers holding Canadian, British or other European passports. And of course, it's important to remember that, just because something is supposed to happen when entering and exiting Israel, personal experiences can vary, and regulations often change without notice. Feel free to share your own tips for traveling to Israel or sound off on your personal experiences in the comments below.

Have a Passport Valid for at Least Six Months

While US passport holders technically have no minimum validity requirement when entering Israel, your passport must be valid for the entirety of your stay. It's highly recommended, though, to have a passport that's valid for six months or more , or your airline may deny you boarding even though the nation of Israel may not deny your entry. If you're concerned, or are cutting it close, the best thing to do is renew your passport. If it's too late for that, call the airline you're flying to confirm if you'll be allowed to board.

Keep Track of Your Entry Card

US passport holders are allowed to stay in Israel for 90 days with a free tourist visa, and it's possible, in some circumstances, to extend this. Although it's technically a tourist visa, visitors from the US don't have to worry about obtaining or showing any paperwork, or making any payment, either beforehand or upon arrival to obtain the visa. (Nowadays, it's largely referred to as the entry card.) The entry card — a small piece of paper in lieu of a stamp — shows information such as the date you arrived, a small photo of yourself and the date when your 90 days in Israel are up.

Don't lose or misplace your entry card . While you may or may not be asked to present it when exiting the country, showing the card at hotels and car rental companies is important, because it will exclude you from paying the VAT tax of 17%. I was personally also asked to show it at a random road border checkpoint near the Dead Sea, so it's a good idea to always have it (and your passport) on hand. You will also get another small slip of paper when you leave, your exit card.

Don't Worry About the Stamp

When you arrive at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv (TLV), your passport should not be stamped. Israel has stopped stamping passports in almost all cases. But, some TPG readers have had their passports stamped during land crossings. Entering both Jordan and Egypt from Israel is permitted and you can do so by land crossing directly from Israel. (For more information on land crossings and possible stamps there, read the land-crossing section below.)

If you already have an Israeli stamp in your passport (the country stopped stamping fairly recently), don't panic. You can try to get a second passport , or just be careful about which countries you enter. Lebanon is one of the strictest countries, denying entrance to anyone with an Israeli stamp in their passport.

Other countries you should avoid entering if you have an Israeli stamp are Syria, Sudan, Iran, Yemen, Libya, Iraq, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Although you will be allowed to enter Muslim-majority countries such as Morocco, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates or Indonesia with the stamp, still be careful. Any interactions with police in a Muslim-majority country, in cases where you have to show your passport with Israeli stamp, could subject you to additional questioning.

Of course, this isn't a science, and some travelers may experience more (or less) questioning or similar issues at border checks when entering and exiting these countries.

It's important to know that when entering Israel, it's OK if you have stamps from Middle Eastern countries. While this may trigger a lot of security questions (see the section on security below), you'll still be allowed to enter and exit the country. Holders of Iranian visas in their passports should expect a lot of added questioning and thorough security checks, but should still ultimately be granted entry.

Get Standard Vaccines

US travelers aren't required to have any specific vaccines when visiting Israel, though having the measles and Hepatitis A vaccines is, as usual, recommended before travel.

Navigating the Land Crossings

It is possible to cross the Israeli border into either Jordan or Egypt — but not to Syria or Lebanon. While an Israeli officer shouldn't stamp your passport upon exiting or entering, we have heard reports of select TPG readers having their documents stamped at land crossings. So, you can simply ask the Israeli border control officer not to stamp your passport and, hopefully, they won't.

You must be careful, however, because the border control agents in Jordan or Egypt will stamp your passport upon entry and exit. The stamp is slightly different than the one you'd get by flying to the Amman (AMM) or Cairo International (CAI) airports, usually showing the name of the land crossing.

Extra scrutiny from a border agent in another country such as Lebanon may notice these entry or exit stamps from Egypt or Jordan and realize you entered by land -- making it clear you'd been to Israel. An easy way around this is to simply ask the land agents in Jordan or Egypt not to stamp your passport when entering or exiting. As I mentioned above, if you do end up with an Israeli (or Jordanian or Egyptian land crossing) stamp, all is not lost. You can apply for a second passport if you then later plan to visit a country such as Lebanon.

If you plan to visit Jordan or Egypt by way of land crossing, you may need a visa, or to pay an entry or exit fee -- and this may be different than the requirements for arriving by air. Fees also depend on the specific border crossing. We have heard reports from a few TPG readers that they were able to pay with a credit card at some of the border crossings. You can always attempt to pay with credit card first, but have cash on hand just in case (and in various currencies, if possible). Some land crossings do have money exchanges nearby in case you're stuck.

You can get a visa upon arrival at two (Yitzhak Rabin/Wadi Araba crossing in the south, near Eilat; and the Jordan River crossing/Sheikh Hussein Bridge in the north, near Beit She'an) out of the three border crossings into Jordan from Israel (except the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge), according to the Jordan International Border Crossing information page. Visa fees (often subject to change) are 40 Jordanian dinars (a little over $56) for a single entry, valid for one month. When departing Jordan, expect to pay 8 dinars ($11) at any border crossings except the airports. The US Department of State explains that, "US passport holders must obtain Jordanian visas in advance to enter Jordan via the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge near Jericho. For US passport holders entering Israel via Jordan at Allenby/King Hussein Bridge [the third international crossing point between Israel and Jordan], Israeli authorities issue visas on arrival. Procedures for all three crossings into Jordan are subject to frequent changes. "

Visitors heading to Egypt by way of Israel at the Taba Border Crossing must obtain a visa in advance from the Egyptian Embassy in their home country or at the Egyptian Embassy or Consulate in Tel Aviv. The exception is if you're only planning to visit Sinai, in which case "Sinai Only" visas are issued in the moment at the Taba Crossing.

Visiting Bethlehem

US citizens with a valid 90-day tourist entry card (the small blue piece of paper I previously encouraged you not to lose) can visit Bethlehem, which is just a few miles from Jerusalem. Bring your passport along with the small entry card, though you may or may not have to show it at the border. It's best to have at least six months or more validity on your passport if you plan to go to Bethlehem, too.

Airlines Flying to Israel

Not all airlines fly to Israel. Many countries don't even recognize the country, so don't expect to fly to Tel Aviv on airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, Royal Air Maroc, Saudia or Qatar. And the following countries have banned nonstop flights to Israel : Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Morocco, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

You can, however, fly Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian and Royal Jordanian Airlines nonstop to and from Israel.

But there are a few interesting exceptions. For example, Egypt Air doesn't fly to Israel — at lest, not exactly. They use a special airline, Air Sinai, which is actually owned by Egypt Air to operate any flights between the two countries. In fact, Air Sinai was established in 1982 for the sole purpose of operating flights between Egypt and Israel. In order to buy an Air Sinai ticket, you'll have to do so through a tour agency or a travel agent, as they aren't available online.

Also, both Saudi Arabia and Libya allow certain airlines (such as Air India and Ethiopian) to use their airspace when flying to Tel Aviv, while the Israeli national carrier, El Al, is not allowed .

If you fly El Al to Israel, expect extra questioning and intense security measures.

Security Before Flying to Israel

You may encounter heavy security and questioning before even checking in for your flight when flying Israeli carrier El Al, regardless of your departure airport. The airline has much heavier security measures than other airlines for entering Israel. Most other airlines won't do any added security questioning before departure.

Some TPG staff members flying El Al noted some serious questioning about their Jewish heritage and customs. TPG travel editor Melanie Lieberman specifically remembers getting asked about her Hebrew name (which she doesn't have) and both Wallace Cotton, TPG 's community manager, and Becca Denenberg, TPG 's director of marketing and communications, were asked which Jewish holidays they celebrated. Non-Jewish flyers can expect routine questions pertaining to why they are visiting Israel and about any stamps in their passport from Muslim countries.

Getting questioned when flying El Al isn't limited to travelers departing from US airports. You'll be questioned, regardless of departure city, if you're flying El Al. TPG UK's director of content, Nicky Kelvin, has experienced extremely long questioning by El Al security agents before arriving at check-in, as well as occasional follow-up question pre-boarding when flying out of London. (He's flown El Al out of London to Tel Aviv more than 10 times.)

Declaration at Customs

You must declare if you are carrying 50,000 shekels (just shy of $14,000) or more when entering or exiting Israel by air and, if entering or exiting by land, you must declare if you are carrying 12,000 shekels ($3,350) or more.

Security Upon Departure From Israel

Upon departure from the Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, all passengers are questioned before check-in.

In theory, the questioning should not be hostile: just very thorough and possibly invasive. During my exit from Israel a few weeks ago, I was questioned exhaustively about several stamps in my passport from destinations such as the UAE, Morocco, Malaysia and Indonesia. I was asked if I knew people in any of those countries, where I had stayed and what my purpose was for traveling there.

Megan Robertson, a video editor and producer at TPG, remembers being questioned about her visit to Turkey, as well as her reasons for visiting Israel. She told TPG she, "got a lot of questions about who I was visiting in Israel, especially since I'm not Jewish and have no family ties there." It's best to be prepared for rigorous questioning, and to "stay calm," Megan said. "Just answer truthfully to the best of your ability."

Depending on your answers, you'll get a sticker on the back of your passport. The first number on the sticker is your flag as a perceived security threat. The numbers range from one, the lowest, to six, the highest. And I got a five. (Apparently, this is normal if you're not Jewish or are traveling alone. ) The extra security was definitely a pain, but I've had worse during a brief period of time when I was marked with the dreaded SSSS in the US .

After check-in, I was sent to a special security line, where every single one of the belongings in my carry-on was taken out, examined and tested for explosives. I walked through the metal detectors and was patted down despite not setting the alarm off.

It was annoying and, frankly, a little embarrassing, but not a huge deal. I originally blanched when the staff at my hotel suggested I arrive at the airport three to four hours in advance of my flight departure time, but they were right, and it's worth giving yourself the extra time in case you end up with extra security screening.

However, those with a sticker with the first number as six should be ready for an even more intense search. If you feel you've been unfairly flagged or treated disrespectfully in any way, you can report it. The US State Department warns that, "some US citizens of Arab or Muslim heritage (including Palestinian-Americans) have experienced significant difficulties and unequal and hostile treatment at Israel's borders and checkpoints. US citizens who have traveled to Muslim countries or who are of Arab, Middle Eastern or Muslim origin may face additional questioning by immigration and border authorities. US citizens should immediately report treatment by border officials that they believe is discriminatory or hostile to the ACS unit of the US Embassy in Jerusalem ( [email protected] ) or the ACS unit of the Embassy Branch Office in Tel Aviv ( [email protected] )."

If you are concerned about being flagged or expect to be in a rush upon either arrival or departure, you should consider prebooking a VIP departure or arrival , which varies in price (usually around $300 to $400 per person, depending on the package) but can include everything from pickup at the jetway to VIP security , luggage pickup and check-in, as well as access to a VIP arrival or departure lounge. (Read Brian Kelly's full review of the service.)

After my intense security screening, I headed to immigration, where I was given a pink exit paper — a replacement for my exit stamp. You may also go through an e-gate for immigration, which issues you this pink paper. I was able to keep both the blue entry card and the pink exit one, and faced no additional questioning at immigration or during the boarding process.

If you ever plan to visit one of the aforementioned Middle Eastern countries that may have a problem with the fact that you've visited Israel, make sure to peel off the sticker from your passport to avoid any issues. And leave the blue and pink papers (those Israeli entry and exit cards) at home, too.

Be Prepared When Traveling on Shabbat

Judaism specifies that Shabbat — from Friday at sundown to sundown on Saturday — should be kept as a holy day. For this reason, all public offices and many businesses are closed on Shabbat. As a result, your travel may be affected. While most airlines operate flights in and out of Israel during these hours, El Al normally does not. Security may take longer, too. Public transportation such as trains and buses may not be operating at all or be operating with a restricted schedule, so plan accordingly to arrive at the airport in time.

WATCH: How to Avoid TLV's Long Lines With NEW VIP Terminal

To learn more about the guidelines about travel to Israel - click here

Passports and Visa

All visitors to Israel must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date they are departing the country. People with no nationality must hold a valid laissez-passer, as well as a visa back to the country that issued it.

Visitors are entitled to remain in Israel up to three months from the date of their arrival, in accordance with the conditions of the visa issued to them. Visitors intending to work in Israel must submit a request to the Ministry of the Interior for a special visa.

Israel no longer stamps passports at airports and most Land Crossings. Nonetheless, because at times technical difficulties arise, and at times, the border control must revert to back to the method of stamping passports, we recommend that tourists continuing from Israel on to Arab countries officially request that an Israeli stamp does not appear on their passport. The tourist must notify the clerk of this request before documents are stamped.

The “Electronic Gate Pass”

In accordance to section 13 of the law regarding entrance to Israel of 1952, an official inspector or police officer can request identification and proof of legal status in Israel. With this in mind, at a press of a button the Border Control station will print a card including the principle details of the traveler as in the first page of the passport. The card will also depict the date of arrival and visa information. This card is called The “Electronic Gate Pass” and it is a new and modern technological system instrumental in meeting the needs of the various Immigration, security, Airport and Tourism authorities as well as providing the tourist with the credentials necessary to prove his visa status. The “Electronic Gate Pass” replaces the system whereby passports were stamped. At the airport, this card allows the traveler to exit the arrival terminal without further delays.

The Gate Pass is an official form of identification while in Israel. We ask all tourists to keep the card at hand at all times as proof of their visa status. At the airport and designated Land Crossings, this card allows the traveler to exit the arrival terminal and continue to the luggage pickup area.

The tourist is asked to keep the card at hand at all times.

​Tourist Visas

We welcome visitors to Israel. Many countries have a Visa Waiver Program with Israel, which allows their citizens to visit Israel without a visa arranged in advance. Before embarking on a trip, visitors desiring to stop in Israel on their way to other destinations must check if they need a prearranged tourist visa. The list of countries in the following link specifies from which countries tourists are required to present a prearranged visa.

https://www.gov.il/en/subjects/certificates_and_passports/tourist_visas

All Visa Waiver Program travelers must present a machine-readable passport at the port of entry in order to enter Israel without a prearranged visa; otherwise, a visa is required. This applies to tourists arriving with a passage card from countries with a Waiver Program.

Extension of Your Stay ​Your visa can be extended (fee required) at the Ministry of the Interior office closest to you, please call their call center at: *3450 or dial 12223450.

Immigration & Customs

Passport Control

Upon arrival in Israel, visitors go to passport control and must present a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of their departure. Please note, Israel has incorporated a new and modern technological system instrumental in meeting the needs of the various Immigration, security, Airport and Tourism authorities as well as providing the tourist with the credentials necessary to prove his visa status without stamping the passport. At a press of a button, the Border Control station will print a card including the principle details of the traveler as in the first page of the passport. The card will also depict the date of arrival and visa information. This card is called The “Electronic Gate Pass”.

The Gate Pass is an official form of identification while in Israel. We ask all tourists to keep the card at hand at all times as proof of their status. Arrival by Air and Land Crossings – Incoming travelers continue to the passenger luggage area after having their passports inspected. Carts are at their disposal. From there, they continue to customs control and to the airport exit.

Information Regarding Israel’s Land Gateways​

General information regarding the laws and policies of the Customs Authority can be downloaded: https://taxes.gov.il/English/Pages/Guides.aspx

Please make note that travel through Allenby Bridge Crossing has specific limitations and directives. For example, visitors passing through the Allenby Bridge between Israel/Jordan may carry no more than the cash value of 2000 Jordanian Dinars.

Customs and V.A.T. for Tourists:

https://taxes.gov.il/English/Vat/Pages/VatLobby.aspx Aside from Allenby Bridge Crossing, and for all other Gateways including airports, the following tourist guide is relevant for visitors as defined by the Customs and Tax Authority: https://taxes.gov.il/English/Vat/pages/guides/vat-refund-for-tourists.aspx https://taxes.gov.il/English/customs/PersonalImport/Pages/CustomsTuristGuide.aspx Please note: there is a two-lane customs transit system, one green and the other red, at Ben Gurion Airport and the various Crossing Points. Visitors who do not have goods to be declared may go through the green lane at the exit from the passenger arrival hall.

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How to Enter Israel

Do i need a passport or visa to enter, special travel circumstances in israel.

Arrest Notification: While some countries will automatically notify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested in a foreign country, that might not always be the case. To ensure that the United States is aware of your circumstances, request that the police and prison officials notify the U.S. Embassy as soon as you are arrested or detained. If you are arrested in Jerusalem, the West Bank, or Gaza, you should use whatever means of communication available to alert the U.S. Consulate in Jerusalem of your situation. Israeli Arrests: U.S. citizens arrested in Israel are entitled to legal representation provided by the Israeli government. In some cases, there have been significant delays between the time of arrest and the time when the INP notifies the U.S. embassy or consulate general of an arrest of a U.S. citizen and grants consular access. This is particularly true in the arrest of dual nationals when the police are unaware of the detainee's U.S. citizenship. The notification may be expedited if the arrested U.S. citizen shows a U.S. passport to the police and asks the police or prison authority to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. U.S. citizens arrested in Israel for security offenses and U.S. citizens arrested by Israeli authorities in the West Bank or Gaza for criminal or security offenses may be prevented from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for lengthy periods. The U.S. Consulate General and the U.S. Embassy sometimes are only notified of such arrests after lengthy delays. Even after notification, consular access to the arrested individual may be delayed. Under local law, individuals may be detained for up to six months without charges. Youths over the age of 14 have been detained and tried as adults. On occasion, arrestees have been subject to mistreatment during interrogation and pressured to sign statements. Palestinian Authority (PA) Arrests: U.S. citizens arrested by PA security forces in the West Bank for crimes are entitled to legal representation. PA security forces normally notify the Consulate General of non-security-related arrests for criminal offenses, but not always in a timely manner. Consular access is normally granted within four days. This procedure may be expedited if the arrested U.S. citizen shows a U.S. passport to the police or asks the police to contact the U.S. Consulate General. Palestinian-Americans living in the West Bank may be detained by the IDF. In such instances, the Government of Israel may not recognize the detainee's U.S. citizenship and will instead consider him or her a Palestinian. In such cases the U.S. Consulate General may not be notified. Dual Palestinian-American citizens arrested by PA security forces in the West Bank for security offenses may be prevented from communicating with lawyers, family members, or consular officers for lengthy periods. In addition, they may be held in custody for protracted periods without formal charges or before being brought before a judge for an arrest extension. The PA often does not notify the U.S. Consulate General of such arrests in a timely manner, and consular access to arrestees is occasionally delayed or denied. Since Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip in June 2007, its Executive Forces (EF) have dominated security matters there. The U.S. government has no contact with the EF. Court Jurisdiction: Civil courts in Israel actively exercise their authority to bar certain individuals, including nonresidents, from leaving the country until debts or other legal claims against them are resolved. Israel's religious courts exercise jurisdiction over all citizens and residents of Israel in cases of marriage, divorce, child custody, and child support. In some cases, U.S. citizens who entered Israel as tourists have become defendants in divorce or custody cases filed by their spouses in Israeli religious courts. These U.S. citizens have been detained in Israel for prolonged periods while the Israeli courts consider whether the individuals have sufficient ties to Israel to establish jurisdiction. Such visitors should be aware that they might be subject to involuntary and prolonged stays in Israel if a case is filed against them in a religious court, even if their marriage took place in the United States and regardless of whether their spouse is present in Israel. Purchases of Property: U.S. citizens who buy or lease property in the occupied territories of East Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza may find their ownership challenged by people earlier displaced from those lands. Prospective property buyers should always seek legal advice before buying in these areas. The possible establishment of a Palestinian state may have legal consequences for property owners in Israeli settlements in the West Bank and in East Jerusalem.

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Essential Documents for Traveling to Israel: What You Need to Carry

Planning a trip to israel make sure you have all the necessary documents with you. this guide highlights the essential paperwork you need to carry when traveling to israel. from passports to visas, ensure a smooth journey by being prepared..

Key Takeaways:

Ensure a smooth trip to Israel by having essential travel documents: valid passport, visa (if needed), and travel itinerary. Proof of financial means, health insurance, and a return ticket may also be required. Different types of visas exist for tourists, business travelers, and students. Check requirements and updates before departure.

Traveling to Israel: Essential Documents You Must Have

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful country of Israel, preparing your travel documents ahead of time is crucial to ensure a smooth experience. Whether it’s to explore historic sites, experience the vibrant culture, or for business purposes, having the right paperwork is key. Here’s what you need to carry with you when you travel to Israel.

Valid Passport

First and foremost, you need a valid passport. Israel requires that your passport be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Before you pack your bags, check the expiry date and renew your passport if necessary.

Visa Requirements

A visa is another vital piece of documentation to consider. While many countries have a visa-waiver program that allows their citizens to enter Israel without a visa for a period of up to 90 days, it’s important to verify this beforehand. Citizens from countries that aren’t in this program will need to apply for a visa in advance. You can find more information on visa requirements on the official Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .

Travel Itinerary

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Having a copy of your travel itinerary can also be helpful, especially when passing through border control. Your itinerary should include:

• Flight details
• Hotel reservations
• Plans for tourist activities

This information can assist the border control officers to understand the purpose of your visit.

Proof of Financial Means

Border control authorities might ask for proof of financial means. This serves to ensure that you can support yourself during your stay in Israel. Carry the following for proof:

• Bank statements
• Traveler’s cheques
• Credit cards

Health Insurance

“Some travelers forget about health insurance, but it’s essential,” states an expert from the tourism industry. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you carry proof of health insurance that is valid in Israel. This is to cover you in case of any medical issues that may arise during your stay.

Return Ticket

A return ticket is often a requirement to enter many countries, including Israel. Having a return ticket is evidence that you intend to leave the country at the end of your visit.

Additional Documents for Special Cases

Certain travelers may need additional documents:

• Business travelers should have an invitation letter from the Israeli company they’re visiting.
• Students must carry an admission letter from their educational institution.

COVID-19 Related Documentation

Due to the changing nature of travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, additional documents may be required. Always check the latest updates on health requirements and travel advisories for Israel before departure.

Different Types of Visas

Knowing what type of visa you need is also important:

• Tourist visa : For individuals traveling for leisure or visiting family.
• Business visa : For business-related travels.
• Student visa : For international students studying in Israel.

Final Checklist

Before you head to the airport, run through this final checklist to ensure you’ve got everything covered:

• Double-check that your passport has at least six months validity.
• Check if you need a visa and apply for it if necessary.
• Print out your travel itinerary.
• Prove your financial sustainability with the appropriate documents.
• Carry proof of health insurance coverage.
• Make sure you have a return ticket.

Traveling to Israel is an enriching experience. Making sure you have all the necessary documents in order prior to your trip will allow you to focus on the incredible sights, sounds, and tastes that await you in this unique country. Always remember to check for any travel updates or changes in immigration policy before your journey by visiting the Israel Ministry of Tourism or reaching out to your local Israeli embassy or consulate. Safe travels!

So, there you have it! All the essential documents you need to rock your trip to Israel. From passports to visas, travel itineraries to health insurance, we’ve got you covered. But hey, if you want more in-depth info and handy tips, check out visaverge.com. They’ve got everything you need to conquer the world, one travel document at a time. Happy exploring, my globetrotting friend!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What are the essential documents needed for traveling to Israel?

Answer: The essential documents needed for traveling to Israel include a valid passport with at least six months validity, a visa (if required), a copy of your travel itinerary, proof of financial means, health insurance, a return ticket, and additional documents for special cases such as an invitation letter for business travelers or an admission letter for students.

FAQ 2: What are the visa requirements for traveling to Israel?

Answer: Many countries have a visa-waiver program allowing citizens to enter Israel without a visa for up to 90 days. However, it’s crucial to verify this prior to travel. Citizens from countries not in this program must apply for a visa in advance. For detailed information on visa requirements, you can visit the official Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

FAQ 3: What type of visa do I need for traveling to Israel and which additional documents might be required?

Answer: The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your travel. There are tourist visas for leisure or visiting family, business visas for business-related travels, and student visas for international students studying in Israel. Additional documents like an invitation letter from the Israeli company you’re visiting may be required for business travelers, while students should carry an admission letter from their educational institution. It’s advised to check the latest updates on health requirements and travel advisories for COVID-19 related documentation.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• What is the minimum passport validity required for entry into Israel? a) 3 months b) 6 months c) 9 months d) 12 months
• Which of the following documents is NOT required to prove your financial means during your stay in Israel? a) Bank statements b) Traveler’s cheques c) Credit cards d) Travel insurance
• Which type of visa is required for international students studying in Israel? a) Tourist visa b) Business visa c) Student visa d) No visa required

Please note that the answers to these questions are:

• b) 6 months
• d) Travel insurance
• c) Student visa

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Israel Travel Guide

Currently, all travelers will be allowed to enter Israel regardless of their age, nationality, or vaccination/recovery status.

The only requirement to enter Israel, is the Pre-Flight Traveler Entry Declaration form which must be filled out within (less than) 10 days prior to your scheduled flight departure time.

Click Here for a detailed list of what to bring to the airport.

If a traveler tests positive at any time while in Israel, they will be required to adhere to the full quarantine guidelines – Click Here for the full guidelines.

Departing Israel: All travelers

Israeli Government Requirements:

As long as a traveler is not obligated to be in quarantine on the date and time of their scheduled flight – there are no Israeli Government requirements in terms of pre flight covid testing in order to depart from Israel.

Destination Requirements:

Most countries in the world have specific pre flight covid testing requirements in order to check in and/or board a flight to their respective countries. Please check the rules of the country/countries you are traveling to.

USA Specific Pre Flight Covid Testing Requirement:

Effective 6/12/2022 there is no longer any pre-flight Covid testing requirement in order to enter the United States.

Stopover / Layover

Please note – there is a universally accepted rule that if you have an indirect flight (with a layover/stopover) and you meet all of the following 3 requirements, you need to meet the requirements of your final destination and not the stopover destination

All legs of your scheduled flight/s are on 1 itinerary – and not separate tickets/itineraries Your stopover/layover is less than 12 hours You do not leave the airport or clear thru border patrol of the stopover/layover destination

What to Bring to the Airport:

All travelers (regardless of age, nationality or status) must have their original, physical valid Foreign Passport or Israeli Passport.

Click here for step by step instructions on how to fill out the traveler entry declaration

All travelers must complete the following ministry of health “traveler entry” declaration within (less then) 10 daysprior to their flight. Click Here to enter the “traveler entry” deceleration page.

After completing the Travel Entry Declaration page, you will receive and email (within 2-3 min after completion). Please print that email and bring it with you to the airport along with any attachments (incoming statement and/or green pass) that accompanied the email.

If only 1 parent is traveling with a Minor Child: Please note, if the minor child is traveling with only one parent, you will need a formal notarized letter from the non-traveling parent authorizing the traveling parent of the child to travel outside the country The letter should be signed by both parents, notarized, and include the passport image of the non traveling parent The letter should state: I (name of non-traveling parent) with passport # (fill in number) give full permission for my partner (name of traveling parent) with passport # (fill in #) to travel to Israel with our child (fill in name of child and passport #)

This letter must be notarized and accompanied by a clear picture of the non-traveling parent.

Traveler Entry Declaration Form

All travelers must complete the following ministry of health “traveler entry” declaration within (less then) 48 hours prior to their flight. Click Here to view our step by step instructions on filling out the “Traveler Entry” deceleration page.

After completing the Travel Entry Declaration page, you will receive and email (within 2-3 min after completion) with a PDF attachment. Please print that email and attachment, and bring it with you to the airport along.

Click Here for the form

Quarantine Guidance

This is only applicable to travelers who test positive while in Israel. Full Quarantine/Isolation is now 5 days via the following method

For any traveler that enters Israel and tests positive for COVID-19 upon arrival or at any time during their stay in Israel – You will have to quarantine for a full 5 days (not including the date you tested positive). You will be permitted to quarantine at a private residence of your choosing until your quarantine period is over. You may take a PCR test on the 5th day – Once that test comes back negative, you are free from quarantine without any other request, application, or documentation required.  You may not leave/fly/travel out of Israel while in quarantine.

Please note that the following information is subject to modification and change at any time, at the discretion of the Israeli government.

Travel to israel: all travelers.

Questions and Inquiries: For all questions or clarifications related to travel, please email us at [email protected], please make sure to include your phone number.

Emergencies: If this is urgent and you need immediate assistance, please call David Kushner, Amudim’s Director of Government Relations, at 646-517-0222 ext 218, 24 hours a day.

Amudim Headquarters: 11 Broadway Suite 1076 New York, NY 10004 Phone: (646) 517-0222

Legal Disclaimer

Due to the continuously ongoing changes, that often happen without advance warning – Amudim attempts to keep this information up to date. Amudim assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided, as changes in Israeli government policy occur frequently. Amudim also does not guarantee results and can not be held responsible for the outcome of an application request.

Amudim’s No Fee Policy

Consistent with Amudim’s mission and values, the organization maintains a strict no-fee policy. We neither charge for our myriad services nor solicit donations in exchange for results. Should anyone hear of an incident where monies were requested by Amudim personnel or affiliates in exchange for services, whether as a charge or by donation, please report the incident to us immediately by email to [email protected]. We take such allegations very seriously and will swiftly and efficiently investigate and address all such reports.

Travel Vaccines and Advice for Israel

The Holy Land. For centuries, Israel has been one of the most desired travel destinations for Christians, Muslims, Jews and others who wish to surround themselves with some of history’s most significant sites.

Israel offers plenty of unique attractions. One could float weightless in the Dead Sea one morning and walk the streets of Bethlehem in the evening.

Israeli cuisine is unparalleled and Tel Aviv boasts one of the best nightlife scenes in the world.

Do I Need Vaccines for Israel?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Israel. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Israel: hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , rabies , anthrax , meningitis , polio , measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) , Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) , chickenpox , shingles , pneumonia and influenza .

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne & Direct Contact – Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Anthrax – Animals & Biological Agents – Vaccination may be recommended or required for U.S. government employees or contractors.
• Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
• TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) – Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis required.
• Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.
• Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.
• Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.
• Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.
• Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.
• Polio – Food & Water – Recommended for some travelers to the region. Single adult booster recommended.

See the tables below for more information:

There is a risk of typhoid infection in the West Bank and Gaza. Vaccination is recommended for travelers to that area.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Israel?

The only requirement for entry to Israel is a valid passport with one blank page for stamping upon arrival. Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the day of arrival in Israel.

Sources: Embassy of Israel and U.S. State Department

If travelers plan on staying for longer than 90 days, only then is a tourist visa required. There are no vaccine and currency restrictions of requirements for either entry or exit.

What is the Climate Like in Israel?

Israel is located in the subtropical region. Although the country is small, the climate can be different from north to south and on the coast.

The Israeli coast is a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and rainy, cool winters. In the northernmost mountainous areas, there is often heavy snowfall in winter months.

• Eilat – In summer months from June to July, temperatures often soar in the 100’s. In the winter, temperatures rarely cool below 65.
• Karmiel – This city is a great escape for those looking to experience weather 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the rest of Israel. In winter, the temperatures sit at 50 degrees and summer months usually are around the mid-80’s.
• Jerusalem – Centrally located, the famous city embodies the subtropical climate with its hot summers and rainy, chilled winters.

Is It Safe to Travel to Israel?

Israel is known for its security measures. Officials run background checks on every visitor who is planning on entering country. Something to note is that profiling is common upon entering Israel, so individuals or Arab or Muslim descent, or if one appears to be suspicious in any way, may have to endure longer screenings.

Although Israel takes extreme precaution towards visitors both flying in and at its borders, it is near countries that are notorious for terrorist attacks.

The U.S. has issued a warning on terrorist attacks to travelers to Israel. While cities such as Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Tel Aviv are regarded as safe, Gaza and the West Bank are less so.

Is the Food Safe in Israel?

Avoid an embarrassing stop, over 70% of travelers will have diarrhea., get protected with passport health’s travelers’ diarrhea kit .

The food in Israel is praised for being safe for consumption in almost all areas of the country. In rural or off-the-beaten path cities, travelers should stick to restaurants that are known for preparing quality food. Avoid street food or water that isn’t from the bottle.

Most major places boast safe and drinkable tap water, except at the Dead Sea where salt levels are high. Israelis thrive primarily on kosher and vegetarian diets.

Some dishes, such as hummus and falafel may be common to the American palate. Others such as Shakshuka (a popular breakfast dish) or Kanafeh (a heated pastry with goat cheese) offer new experiences.

Living History At Masada

Masada is an ancient fortress in Israel, located on a high plateau with amazing views of the Dead Sea and the desert. People visit Masada because it is a very important historical site. Jewish rebels stayed there when they fought against the Roman army. They chose to end their own lives instead of being captured, making Masada a symbol of bravery.

When tourists visit Masada, they can explore the remains of a palace and other old buildings. They can also enjoy the stunning views, especially during sunrise or sunset. To reach the top of Masada, visitors can hike on two different paths. One path is steeper and harder, while the other path is shorter and easier.

At the base of Masada, there is a museum where tourists can learn about the people who lived there and see things they left behind. Sometimes, there is a special show at night that tells the story of Masada with lights and sounds. The area around Masada is also a great place for birdwatching. Visiting Masada is a fun way to learn about history and enjoy beautiful views.

What Should I Take To Israel?

It is difficult to pack light for Israel considering the fluctuation in weather from city to city. Here are a few items that should definitely make it into the suitcase:

• Modest clothing not just to enter religious sites, but for everyday wear
• Long sleeve lightweight shirts
• A lightweight raincoat
• Long dresses
• Lightweight pants that go below the knees
• Copies of your passport

U.S. Embassy in Israel

The U.S. Embassy in Israel offers many services to help American travelers. They can help you with passports, like getting a new one or replacing a lost one.

If there’s an emergency or a crime happens, the embassy can help you stay safe and get the help you need. If you get arrested, they make sure you’re treated fairly.

The embassy is located at:

U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv 71 Hayarkon Street Tel Aviv Israel 63903 Telephone: +(972) (3) 519-7575 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(972) (3) 519-7551 Fax: +(972) (3) 516-4390, or 516-0315 Email: [email protected]

It’s a good idea to check their website for updated information on what they can do for you.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Israel? Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Israel? What is the Climate Like in Israel? Is It Safe to Travel to Israel? Is the Food Safe in Israel? Living History At Masada What Should I Take to Israel? U.S. Embassy in Israel

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• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This travel advice covers Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK who choose to travel despite FCDO advice. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Israel and the OPTs set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Israeli Embassy in London or the   Palestinian Mission to the UK .

Check Israeli immigration policies before you travel. Allow extra time for increased security measures and checks at airports, especially during Israeli holidays and during the summer tourist season.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Israel or the OPTs .

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to enter Israel as a tourist. On entry, visitors are given permission to stay for up to 3 months. However, if you are a dual national, read the dual nationals guidance for more information.

If you work in Israel without the proper permissions, you can be detained and deported. This process could take several months.

Passport validity requirements

If you’re visiting Israel or the OPTs , your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter the country (check the expiry date).

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

 Checks at border control

Passport stamping and entry cards.

Visitors entering via Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport get an entry card instead of an entry stamp in their passport. At other entry points to the country, you may get an entry card or you may get a stamp.

Keep your entry card with your passport until you leave. This is evidence that you entered Israel legally. You may need it, particularly if you’re crossing into the OPTs . If you’re refused entry to Israel, your passport may be stamped with an entry stamp and 2 red lines drawn across it to show the refusal.

Stamps with restrictions

Entry stamps that state ‘Palestinian Authority only’ or ‘Judea and Samaria only’ have been issued to some travellers at:

• the Allenby Bridge crossing with Jordan
• Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport

Since travellers entering by the Allenby Bridge crossing must pass through Israeli checkpoints and Israeli-controlled territory to reach Jerusalem or Gaza, this effectively limits travellers who receive this stamp.

It is not clear how travellers who get this stamp at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport can leave the airport without violating the restriction.

This stamp has been issued to travellers who have no Palestinian or other Arab ancestry, and do not seem to have a claim to a Palestinian Authority ID.     

Immigration checks

The Israeli authorities decide if you can enter Israel. You may experience lengthy personal questioning and baggage searches at security when you enter and leave Israel. Searches and questioning may be longer for some visitors, including:

• visitors with Palestinian or Arab ancestry
• visitors with evidence of previous travel which may be considered suspicious
• visitors who are considered to have publicly criticised the state of Israel

Foreign nationals can legally be refused entry if they:

• have publicly called for a boycott of Israel or Israeli settlements
• belong to an organisation which has called for a boycott

Travellers may occasionally be held at border control for more checks. This is not routine, but a few travellers do experience delays, sometimes for several hours. Israeli security have sometimes requested access to travellers’ personal email or social media accounts as a condition of entry.

Previous travel to countries in the region

Evidence of previous travel to another country in the region, such as entry or exit stamps in your passport, does not normally stop you entering Israel. However, you may face extra questioning at the border.

If you have concerns about visas or entry into Israel, including whether previous travel can affect you travelling there, contact the Israeli Embassy in the UK before you travel.

Refusal of entry into Israel

If you’re refused entry to Israel, you will be booked on the next available flight back to where you flew in from, on the same airline.

Depending on the flight schedule, you may be taken to the Immigration Detention Centre (a few minutes’ drive from the airport) to wait until your flight departs. You will have access to a telephone, information in English and medical assistance if needed. Your luggage will stay at the airport, so tell officials if you need to retrieve anything urgent from your luggage, for example medication.

You can contact the British Embassy in Israel from the detention centre. They can help where possible, but cannot intervene in immigration decisions.

Entering the OPTs

Entry to the OPTs , including by sea to Gaza, is controlled by the Israeli authorities. You must show a passport and Israeli immigration slip to cross between Israel and the OPTs .

There are requirements for foreign nationals entering the West Bank. Read about the requirements for entering the West Bank on the Israel government website .

Israeli border officials at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport have asked some travellers to sign a form stating they are not allowed to enter territories controlled by the Palestinian Authority unless they get advance authorisation from the Israeli ‘Territory Actions Co-ordinator’. You can be deported from Israel and barred from entry for up to 10 years for violating this restriction.

If immigration officials believe you plan to enter Gaza without permission, or that you’re entering Israel to work in the OPTs , you may be refused entry.

FCDO cannot support individuals applying for entry or exit permits for Gaza. If you decide to visit Gaza against FCDO advice, you must contact the relevant authorities well in advance. FCDO cannot provide administrative support to UK charities wishing to enter Gaza by the Rafah crossing.

The Rafah border regularly closes with no warning and for long periods. The Erez border is currently closed. At these times it may be impossible to enter or leave Gaza. 

Israeli checkpoints may close on Israeli public holidays and during periods of increased instability. There is information on known checkpoint closures on the UN website . This can change at short notice.

British nationals of Palestinian origin

If you’re a British national of Palestinian origin (on the Palestinian Population Register or holding a Palestinian ID number), you need a Palestinian passport or travel document to leave Gaza or the West Bank.

If you’re a British national with a Palestinian name or place of birth but without a Palestinian ID number, you may face problems. British nationals of Palestinian origin or British nationals married to Palestinians have been refused entry into Israel.

British people holding dual nationality 

British-Palestinian dual nationals living in the West Bank and Gaza may only exit the OPTs via the Allenby border crossing into Jordan or the Rafah border crossing into Egypt, and must return by the same route. If you’re a British-Palestinian dual national entering Gaza against FCDO travel advice, check entry and exit procedures with the relevant authorities. There is a limit on the number of dual nationals permitted to enter and exit Gaza through Erez – this includes if you are entering for medical or humanitarian reasons. The Israeli government has the authority to make decisions on entry and exit permits through Erez.

If you’re a British national with dual nationality, check with your nearest Israeli embassy if you need pre-approval to travel to Israel. Dual nationals holding Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian and Lebanese citizenship have previously been impacted. If you are not a citizen of any of these countries, but have close family ties, it is also advisable to check with your nearest Israeli embassy before travel.

Children with at least one Israeli parent (father or mother) are considered Israeli nationals. These children must enter and leave Israel on an Israeli passport.

British nationals with associations with other countries in the region

Dual nationals holding Iranian, Iraqi, Syrian and Lebanese citizenship have previously been heavily questioned, denied entry and deported. If a deportation flight is not available immediately, this can mean being detained until one is available, which can take a number of days. If you are a citizen of any of these countries, or have associations such as close family ties, the Israeli authorities advise you to check with your nearest Israeli embassy before travel to gain pre-approval for entry.  

Children and young people

Children aged 17 years and under travelling to Israel alone or with only one parent should carry a letter from their parents or guardians confirming parental consent, accommodation plans and contact details.

Children exiting Israel alone should carry a locally issued notarised letter as advised by external firms .     

For children with at least one Israeli parent, read the advice for dual nationals above.

Entry to Jordan

To enter Jordan from Israel, you must register in advance. Find more information on the Visit Jordan website .

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Israel guide and TravelHealthPro’s Palestinian Territories guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Israel and the OPTs . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into Israel and the OPTs

The Israeli Tax Authority provides information on taking money into or out of Israel .

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DHS Announces Start of Applications for Visa-Free Travel to U.S. for Eligible Israeli Citizens and Nationals

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is announcing the start of visa-free travel for short term visits to the United States for eligible Israeli citizens and nationals following Israel’s admission into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. Starting today, Thursday, October 19, eligible Israeli citizens and nationals can start applying for authorization to travel to the United States through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

On September 26, 2023, DHS, in consultation with the Department of State, designated Israel into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which allows eligible travelers to apply online for authorization to travel to the United States through ESTA. These authorizations allow successful applicants to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a U.S. visa. Israeli citizens and nationals with valid B-1/B-2 visas may continue to use them for business and tourist travel to the United States.

Participation in the VWP requires that any citizen seeking to enter the United States visa free be from a country that extends to U.S. citizens and nationals the privileges we would extend to their citizens and nationals. Israel has committed in writing to the United States that all U.S. citizens traveling with a U.S. passport may seek to enter Israel without regard to national origin, religion, or ethnicity. The United States continuously monitors implementation of program requirements by all Visa Waiver Program countries, including Israel, to ensure that they remain in good standing with all program requirements.

Eligible Israeli citizens and nationals must have a biometrically enabled passport book. Travelers who possess non-biometric, temporary, or emergency travel documents, or travel documents from a non-Visa Waiver Program designated country, are not eligible for travel under the Visa Waiver Program and may instead apply for a U.S. visa. ESTA applications may take up to 72 hours for processing. The ESTA application will be available in English only at this time and will be available in other languages no later than November 1, 2023.

ESTA is an automated system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. Upon completion of an ESTA application, travelers are notified of their eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. DHS uses the application data to vet travelers before granting authorization to travel to the United States. As part of this vetting process, information that identifies suspected or known violators of the law and other persons of concern will be provided to the appropriate law enforcement, national security, and/or counterterrorism agency.

Individuals traveling under the Visa Waiver Program for an intended stay beyond 90 days may be determined to be inadmissible to the United States. Individuals determined to be inadmissible will be refused admission to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. In addition, individuals admitted under the Visa Waiver Program who overstay their authorized period of stay will be removable under the Visa Waiver Program and ineligible for future Visa Waiver Program travel.

Traveling on a visa may still be the best option for some travelers such as those who would like to stay in the United States longer than 90 days or those who think they may wish to extend their stay or change their status once in the United States. 

ESTA applications may be found at  esta.cbp.dhs.gov  or download the “ESTA Mobile” app through iOS App Store or the Google Play Store.

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Middle East Crisis U.S. Personnel in Israel Face New Travel Restrictions

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The U.S. imposes new travel rules in Israel ‘out of an abundance of caution.’

The U.S. State Department has barred its employees in Israel from traveling to large parts of the country, a reflection of deepening concern that Iran could strike Israeli territory in retaliation for the deadly bombing of an Iranian Embassy complex in Damascus this month.

Iran has repeatedly vowed to strike back at Israel over the Damascus attack, which killed three generals and four other military officers. On Wednesday, President Biden told reporters that Iran was threatening a “significant” attack.

The State Department issued the travel warning on Thursday as the top American military commander for the Middle East, Gen. Michael E. Kurilla, traveled to Israel to coordinate a response to possible Iranian retaliation, U.S. officials said. It was the first time the U.S. government has restricted the movement of its employees in this way since the war in Gaza began six months ago.

Asked about the travel warning , Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, said: “We have seen Iran making public threats against Israel in the past few days.” He declined to provide details about any specific information that prompted the warning.

The new guidelines bar U.S. government employees and their families from traveling to locations outside the Tel Aviv, Jerusalem and Beersheba metropolitan areas “out of an abundance of caution” until further notice. The State Department said U.S. personnel could move between those areas for personal travel.

“Israel’s in a very tough neighborhood, and we have been monitoring the security situation,” Mr. Miller said at a regular news briefing on Thursday. “You saw us slightly adjust our travel warnings at the beginning of this conflict, and we conduct ongoing assessments all the time about the situation on the ground.”

— Liam Stack reporting from Jerusalem

The relief organization Anera says it is resuming operations in Gaza.

An aid group that was a partner with World Central Kitchen in Gaza and had suspended its operations after Israeli strikes killed seven humanitarian workers has said it is resuming work in the territory.

The Israeli authorities this week told the group, Anera, that its military would take “certain measures” to protect aid workers in Gaza, the group’s chief executive, Sean Carroll, said in a statement on Thursday, without elaborating what those were. The longstanding U.S.-based nonprofit, also known by its full name, American Near East Refugee Aid, said it was fully resuming its work in Gaza distributing meals, hygiene kits and tents, and providing medical treatment.

“Our ability to help people in Gaza relies on our heroic staff and hundreds of volunteers,” Mr. Carroll said in the statement, saying the group was “cautiously hopeful” that Israel’s assurances would mean that its workers will be safe.

World Central Kitchen, which also suspended its work in Gaza after the deaths of its staff members, has not announced plans to restart operations.

At least 224 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since the current conflict broke out on Oct. 7, the U.N. Security Council said in a statement Thursday. That toll is at least three times higher than in a single conflict in a given year, the Security Council said.

With Israel’s blockade and heavy bombardment of the territory, Gaza’s 2.2 million civilians have become ever more dependent on aid organizations to meet even a fraction of their basic needs. At the same time, aid groups say the constant risk of strikes, crumbling roads and infrastructure, and staggering levels of need make their work immensely challenging .

In a sign of the continuing peril for aid workers, UNICEF said on Thursday that one of its vehicles had been hit with live ammunition while waiting to enter northern Gaza this week. The Palestine Red Crescent Society said separately that a staff member had died on Thursday after having been wounded in March during the evacuation of a hospital in Khan Younis.

The seven workers with the relief organization World Central Kitchen were killed April 1 leaving a warehouse in central Gaza. The team was part of the group’s efforts to get hundreds of tons of food aid, sent in by ship through a makeshift jetty the organization built on the Mediterranean coast, to a population among whom famine is beginning to set in .

They were killed when at least one Israeli drone struck three vehicles in their convoy in rapid succession, which Israel’s military later said was the result of a “grave mistake.”

Anera, which was a partner with World Central Kitchen to distribute meals, said it had also lost one of its workers on March 8 in an Israeli airstrike, even though the location of his shelter had been shared with the Israeli authorities. Mousa Shawwa, 41, a logistics coordinator, had been a member of its staff for nearly 15 years and was wearing a vest with its logo when he was killed, according to the organization.

— Victoria Kim

Here’s what to know about Gaza’s hunger crisis.

Six months into the Israel-Hamas war, the people of Gaza are facing a hunger crisis that the United Nations says borders on famine.

The crisis in Gaza is entirely human-made, a result of Israel’s war on Hamas and a near-complete siege of the territory, aid experts say. Conflicts were also at the root of the other two disasters in the last two decades that were classified by a global authority as famines, in Sudan and Somalia, though in those countries drought was a also significant underlying factor.

Here’s a look at how Gaza reached this point.

The food shortages in Gaza have been created by Israel’s blockade and military operations.

For years before the latest war, Gaza was subject to an Israeli blockade , backed by Egypt. Under the blockade, humanitarian aid, including food and commercial imports, was tightly restricted. Even so, levels of malnutrition among Gaza’s roughly 2.2 million people were low and comparable to those of countries in the region.

After Oct. 7, when Hamas led a deadly attack on Israel that incited the war, Israel imposed a siege and instituted much stricter controls on what could go into Gaza, stopping anything it believed could potentially benefit Hamas from entering. At the same time, Israel blocked commercial imports of food that had filled Gaza’s shops and markets.

It also bombed Gaza’s port , restricted fishing and bombed many of the territory’s farms. Airstrikes and fighting have shattered Gaza’s infrastructure and forced almost all of its population to flee their homes. That displacement, plus the destruction of businesses and a surge in prices, has made it hard for families to feed themselves.

“The food production system has been completely obliterated, and the lack of entry of emergency aid within a short time has created a free fall,” said Jens Laerke, a spokesman for the U.N. humanitarian office.

Famine has a precise definition for the United Nations and aid groups.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification , an initiative of U.N. bodies and major relief agencies that is also known as the I.P.C., said last month that famine was imminent in northern Gaza. The body declares a famine when at least 20 percent of households face an extreme lack of food; when at least 30 percent of children suffer from acute malnutrition ; and when at least two adults or four children for every 10,000 people die each day from starvation or disease linked to malnutrition.

Since 2004, when the system was set up, there have been two famines , according to that definition. In 2011, the I.P.C. declared famine in parts of Somalia, which had endured decades of conflict. Years of drought wrecked the agricultural sector and the economy, forcing many people to leave their homes in search of food. At the same time, an Islamist insurgent group blocked starving people from fleeing and forced out Western aid organizations. In all, around 250,000 people died.

Six years later, a famine was declared in parts of South Sudan. The country had suffered years of drought, but the U.N. said that the famine was human-made. Millions of people had fled because of a civil war, destroying the country’s economy, and rebel forces and government soldiers blocked aid and hijacked food trucks. Tens of thousands died.

Gaza is small and mostly urban, so food should be close at hand.

Gaza is just 25 miles long and largely urban, and there is no shortage of food on the other side of its borders, with Israel and Egypt.

Still, aid agencies have found doing their jobs difficult. Six months of war have included the killings of scores of aid workers, including seven from World Central Kitchen, the relief group founded by the chef José Andrés. Those employees were killed by an Israeli drone strike on April 1 after delivering tons of food to a warehouse.

There is a sharp disagreement in Gaza between the U.N. and the Israeli government about how much aid is entering Gaza each day, but aid organizations say they need better access, particularly to northern Gaza. The Israeli authorities have repeatedly denied permission for aid convoys to move within Gaza, they say.

Arif Husain, the chief economist at the World Food Program, said that what made the situation in Gaza so shocking was the scale and severity of the crisis and how quickly it had developed.

Israel claims it has placed no limits on aid. Critics disagree.

Critics of the way Israel is conducting the war say that the hunger crisis derives largely from Israeli restrictions on where trucks can enter and from an onerous inspection process. Some have accused Israel of slowing aid down to punish Gazans for the Oct. 7 attack.

Israeli officials say they have placed no limits on the amount of aid that can flow into Gaza. They blame the U.N., particularly UNRWA, the main agency that helps Palestinians, for failing to distribute aid effectively.

COGAT, the Israeli agency responsible for coordinating aid deliveries into Gaza, says that it has “surged” deliveries in recent days and is opening an additional entry point in northern Gaza. More broadly, the Israeli government holds Hamas responsible for all civilian suffering in Gaza. ( UNRWA said last month that Israel had denied the group access to northern Gaza, though Israel has rebutted that claim.)

Governments around the world have urged Israel to address the crisis quickly. President Biden last week warned that the United States could withhold support for Israel if it did not ensure adequate aid deliveries and protect civilians. On Wednesday, Mr. Biden said that the steps Israel had taken since then were “not enough.”

Adam Sella contributed reporting.

— Matthew Mpoke Bigg

UNICEF says one of its vehicles was hit by fire in Gaza.

UNICEF said on Thursday that one of its vehicles had been “hit by live ammunition” this week while it was waiting to enter northern Gaza, and that the agency had raised the matter with the Israeli authorities.

Tess Ingram, a spokeswoman for UNICEF, said she had been traveling with a convoy that came under fire on Tuesday while waiting to pass an Israeli checkpoint leading to northern Gaza. No one in the convoy was harmed, Ms. Ingram said in an interview, but the shooting emphasized the ever-present risks for humanitarian workers in the enclave.

It was “one of many examples of how we are continually delayed and put in danger during these missions and how that impacts our ability to do the work,” she said.

After the shooting, the convoy had planned to proceed with its mission to deliver 10,000 liters of fuel and a truckload of medical supplies and food to Gaza City and Jabaliya, in northern Gaza, Ms. Ingram said. But the group eventually turned back because Israeli forces kept their vehicles waiting at the checkpoint for so long that “our mission wasn’t feasible anymore,” she said. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to questions about the report.

Ms. Ingram and her colleagues were not told the reason for the delay on Tuesday, but they hoped to coordinate another attempt with the Israeli military in the coming days, she said.

The episode is the latest example of aid-group staff members coming under attack despite international laws meant to protect them. Hundreds of humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since the war began.

Aid agencies say that they are struggling to distribute the few supplies that are getting into Gaza and that Israeli forces have fired on relief convoys.

Last week, seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen charity were killed in Israeli strikes after delivering food to a warehouse in central Gaza. In that case, the Israeli military, which has described the strikes as a mistake, had been informed of the aid workers’ movements, the charity said.

The World Central Kitchen workers’ deaths drew international condemnation, and Israel responded by pledging to reopen a critical border crossing between Israel and northern Gaza for aid delivery. But there have been few signs of progress toward its promise, and aid groups say Israel must do more to support Gazan civilians trapped amid the conflict.

“Issues with coordination have not been resolved since the tragic World Central Kitchen incident,” Ms. Ingram said.

— Liam Stack

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