Israel to launch ETA-IL system on June 1
Israel’s ETA-IL travel authorization system—required for visa-exempt visitors from June 1, 2024—goes live in two phases with pilots starting in June for U.S. and German passport holders.
On 1 July 2024 Israel will take a major step toward modernising how visitors enter the country. From that date, nationals of many currently visa-exempt countries—including the United States, Canada, Australia and several European nations—will first need to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel (ETA-IL) before boarding any flight to Tel Aviv, Jerusalem or Eilat.
What is the ETA-IL?
The ETA-IL—Israel’s version of the eTA, eVisitor, ESTA or NZeTA—operates as a pre-screening gateway, clearing visitors before they reach the point of entry. It mirrors systems already running in Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.
Two-phase roll-out
The programme launches in two stages:
Pilot phase: 1 June 2024 – 30 June 2024. Only U.S. and German passport holders may apply; requests are voluntary and free of charge during this period.
Full launch: From 1 July 2024 every traveller from a currently visa-exempt country must obtain an approved ETA-IL before travelling to Israel.
Official Israel ETA-IL portal
Who needs an ETA-IL?
The new rule applies to most visitors whose nationality currently exempts them from a visa for short tourist stays in Israel. An up-to-date list is posted on Israel’s official ETA-IL website—which is also the sole portal for submitting applications.
According to the portal, processing usually takes 24–72 hours and the approved ETA-IL is valid for up to two years from the date of issue.
Key exceptions
Holders of an Israeli ID number or Israeli passport do not need an ETA-IL to enter the country.
How to apply for an ETA-IL
Follow these four straightforward steps to secure your travel authorisation:
Step 1 – Prepare your documents
You will need:
A valid passport issued by an eligible country
A working email address for the approval notification
A current payment method to cover the processing fee (exact amount disclosed during submission)
Step 2 – Complete the online application
Visit the official government portal and fill in the required personal details.
Step 3 – Pay the processing fee
The exact fee will be displayed when you finalise the form. Pay online using one of the accepted methods.
Step 4 – Wait for approval
Once approved, you’ll receive an email confirmation with your ETA-IL attached. Print or store a digital copy for your travel records.
Why Israel is introducing the ETA-IL
Israel’s new ETA-IL system is designed to bolster border security by screening visitors before they travel, reducing the risk of unauthorised entries and streamlining immigration checks. The measure also promises a smoother, faster entry experience for legitimate tourists once they arrive.
Spécialiste de la veille réglementaire et experte en contenus destinations, elle analyse quotidiennement l’évolution des formalités d’entrée pour traduire la complexité administrative en guides pratiques. Son rôle combine expertise terrain et précision technique afin de garantir la fiabilité des informations délivrées aux voyageurs.
