Israel’s ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) requires a valid passport, a completed online application, a recent passport-style photo, and a non-refundable fee of NIS 25 (approximately USD 7). Citizens of visa-exempt countries must obtain an approved ETA-IL before boarding any flight or ship to Israel. Below is a complete breakdown of every requirement, eligibility rule, and document you need.
What Is the ETA-IL?
The ETA-IL is Israel’s electronic travel authorization system, launched to pre-screen travelers from visa-exempt countries before they arrive at the border. It is not a visa – it is a digital entry permit linked to your passport number. Once approved, the ETA-IL is valid for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and allows multiple entries into Israel with stays of up to 90 days per visit.
The system is managed by the Israel Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) and applies to citizens of countries that previously enjoyed visa-free entry to Israel. If you are from a country that requires a traditional visa, the ETA-IL does not apply to you – you must apply for a full Israel visa instead.
Who Needs an ETA-IL?
Travelers from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid ETA-IL before traveling to Israel. This includes citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, all European Union member states, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, and many others.
You do NOT need an ETA-IL if you are:
- An Israeli citizen or permanent resident
- A holder of a valid Israeli visa (B1, B2, A2, A3, A4)
- A Palestinian ID holder entering through designated checkpoints
- A diplomatic or official passport holder traveling on government business
Children and infants of all ages, including newborns, require their own separate ETA-IL application. There is no group or family application – each traveler, regardless of age, must have an individual authorization.
Required Documents for ETA-IL Application
Before starting your application, gather the following items:
1. Valid Passport
Your passport must meet these conditions:
- Validity: At least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Israel
- Type: Ordinary passport (diplomatic and official passports are handled separately)
- Condition: Legible, undamaged, and not reported lost or stolen
- Machine-readable: The passport must have a machine-readable zone (MRZ) – if your passport is very old and lacks an MRZ, you may face issues
The passport number you enter in the application must match exactly what appears on your passport’s biographical page. Any discrepancy – even a single digit – will result in a mismatch at the airport and potential denial of boarding.
2. Recent Passport-Style Photo
You must upload a digital photo that meets Israeli government standards:
- Format: JPEG or PNG
- Size: Between 50 KB and 500 KB
- Dimensions: Minimum 600 x 600 pixels
- Background: Plain white or light-colored
- Recency: Taken within the last six months
- Appearance: Full face, eyes open, neutral expression, no head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
The photo is a critical component – applications with photos that do not meet specifications may be delayed or rejected. If you need guidance on photo standards, see our ETA-IL photo requirements guide.
3. Valid Email Address
Your approval notification and ETA-IL document will be sent to the email address you provide during registration. Use an email address you check regularly, as you will need to verify it during the application process. Official correspondence from PABA will come from an @piba.gov.il domain.
4. Payment Method
The ETA-IL costs NIS 25 (approximately USD 7 / EUR 6.50). Payment is made online during the application process and is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Accepted payment methods include:
- International credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Debit cards with online payment capability
The fee is per application – if you are applying for multiple family members, each application requires its own separate payment.
5. Travel Details (Optional but Recommended)
While not mandatory at the time of application, having the following information ready can help ensure your details are accurate:
- Intended date of entry into Israel
- Flight number or carrier (if known)
- Accommodation address in Israel
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, transit, etc.)
Eligibility Criteria
Beyond having the required documents, applicants must meet these eligibility conditions:
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Citizen of a visa-exempt country |
| Passport validity | Minimum 6 months from entry date |
| Criminal record | No serious criminal convictions (Israel reserves the right to deny entry) |
| Prior refusals | No previous Israeli visa/ETA refusal without resolution |
| Health | No communicable diseases requiring quarantine (per Israeli health regulations) |
| Purpose of visit | Tourism, business meetings, transit, or short-term study |
Israel maintains the right to deny entry to any traveler, even with an approved ETA-IL, if immigration officers determine a security or legal concern upon arrival. The ETA-IL does not guarantee entry – it authorizes you to board transportation to Israel and present yourself at the border.
How Long Does ETA-IL Processing Take?
Most ETA-IL applications are processed within 24 to 72 hours. However, some applications may take up to 14 business days if additional review is required. Factors that can slow processing include:
- Name matches on security databases (common with common names)
- Incomplete or inconsistent application data
- Poor-quality passport photo
- Previous immigration issues in Israel or other countries
Apply at least two weeks before your planned travel date to allow for any unexpected delays. You can check your application status on the official PABA portal. For more details, see our ETA-IL processing time guide.
Common Reasons for ETA-IL Rejection
Applications may be denied for several reasons:
- Invalid passport: Expired, damaged, or less than six months validity remaining
- Photo non-compliance: Wrong dimensions, poor quality, or wearing sunglasses
- Incorrect information: Mismatched passport number, wrong date of birth, or misspelled name
- Previous overstay: Prior overstay in Israel or violation of visa conditions
- Security flags: Name or biographical data matching security watchlists
- Incomplete application: Missing required fields or unverified email address
If your application is denied, you will receive an email notification. You may reapply with corrected information, but the application fee is not refunded. In some cases, you may need to apply for a full Israel visa through an embassy or consulate instead.
ETA-IL vs. Traditional Israel Visa
Understanding the difference between the ETA-IL and a traditional visa helps you determine which path is right for you:
| Feature | ETA-IL | Traditional Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application method | Online only | Embassy/consulate in person |
| Processing time | 24 hours – 14 days | 2 – 8 weeks |
| Cost | NIS 25 (~USD 7) | Varies by type (USD 20 – 250) |
| Validity | Up to 2 years | Varies by visa type |
| Max stay per visit | 90 days | Depends on visa category |
| Interview required | No | Often yes |
| Biometric data | No | May be required |
If you are from a visa-exempt country, the ETA-IL is almost always the correct and simpler choice. If you plan to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, you will need a specific visa category. Read our ETA-IL vs. visa comparison for a detailed breakdown.
Passport Validity: The Six-Month Rule
Israel enforces a strict six-month passport validity rule. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of entry into Israel – not your departure date. For example, if you plan to enter Israel on September 1, 2026, your passport must be valid until at least March 1, 2027.
If your passport expires within six months of your planned entry, renew it before applying for the ETA-IL. An approved ETA-IL is tied to your passport number – if you get a new passport after approval, you must reapply with the new passport details. See our full guide on Israel passport requirements for more information.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Double-check your passport number. The most common cause of airport issues is a mismatch between the ETA-IL record and the passport.
- Use a high-quality photo. Take it in natural light against a white wall, or use a professional passport photo service.
- Apply early. Even though most approvals come within days, apply at least two weeks before travel.
- Keep a digital copy. Save the ETA-IL approval email and PDF on your phone. Airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
- Check your email spam folder. Approval notifications sometimes land in spam – add piba.gov.il to your safe senders list.
FAQs About Israel ETA Requirements
Do children need their own ETA-IL?
Yes. Every traveler, including infants and children of any age, must have an individual ETA-IL application with their own passport and photo.
Can I apply for an ETA-IL with a temporary or emergency passport?
Temporary and emergency passports may not be accepted for ETA-IL applications. It is best to apply with a full-validity machine-readable passport. Contact the Israeli embassy if you only have an emergency travel document.
How long is the ETA-IL valid once approved?
The ETA-IL is valid for up to two years from the date of approval, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries with stays of up to 90 days per visit.
Do I need to print my ETA-IL?
Printing is not required, but it is recommended. The ETA-IL is electronically linked to your passport, so airlines and border officers can verify it digitally. However, having a printed or digital backup on your phone provides an extra layer of assurance.
What if my passport expires after my ETA-IL is approved?
If your passport expires, your ETA-IL becomes invalid because it is linked to that specific passport number. You must reapply for a new ETA-IL using your new passport.
Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days with an ETA-IL?
No. The ETA-IL allows a maximum stay of 90 days per visit. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a visa extension through the Israel Population and Immigration Authority before your 90-day period expires.
Is the ETA-IL fee refundable if I cancel my trip?
No. The NIS 25 application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of your application or any changes to your travel plans.
Do dual citizens need an ETA-IL?
If you hold Israeli citizenship in addition to another nationality, you do not need an ETA-IL – you enter Israel on your Israeli passport. If you are a dual citizen of two non-Israeli countries, you need an ETA-IL based on the passport you will use to enter Israel.
