What to Know About Israel’s New Entry Requirements

As airlines announce returns to Israel, and tourism to the country starts picking up again, it’s important for travelers to know about the new entry requirements that launched in January. 

Visitors from countries that are exempt from needing a visa to go to Israel, which includes the U.S., must now obtain an electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL). This new process began on Jan. 1, 2025, and requires visitors to fill out an online form prior to travel. 

The Israel Population and Immigration Authority recommends submitting the ETA-IL form no later than 72 hours before departure. Once approved, the ETA-IL is valid for multiple trips for up to two years from the date of approval or until the traveler’s passport expires. 

The ETA-IL application costs 25 NIL (about $7 USD) to submit and asks for a valid email address, travel information, passport details, and personal details. It allows for stays up to 90 days at a time.

Both Delta Air Lines and United have, in recent weeks, announced plans to return to regular Israel flights.

United will relaunch daily service from Newark Liberty International Airport to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on March 15. A second daily flight will be added on March 29. Both routes will be operated on United’s Boeing 787-10 aircraft. Delta will operate seven weekly flights to Tel Aviv starting April 1.