Israel has taken a significant step toward modernizing its travel procedures by introducing two electronic systems: the eVisa for visa-required travellers and the electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL) for visa-exempt visitors.
These measures, effective from January 1, 2025, aim to streamline the entry process and improve security for international travellers.
What is eVisa-B2
The eVisa-B2 for Israel is a convenient online platform that allows eligible foreign nationals to apply for a B2 visa electronically. This visa category covers various travel purposes, including tourism, visiting family, and short-term business trips. By streamlining the application process, the eVisa system offers a faster and more user-friendly experience for travellers seeking entry to Israel.
Launch of Israel’s Electronic Visa (eVisa)
Israel’s eVisa system, currently in its pilot phase, is exclusively available to all Indian nationals applying for B2 visas. This category covers:
- Tourist visits
- Family trips
- Short-term business or non-academic study trips
- Medical treatment stays
Israeli authorities plan to expand the eVisa program to additional nationalities in the future, offering broader access to simplified travel procedures.
Eyal Siso, Director General of the Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) referred to the eVisa as “a true revolution,” emphasizing that travellers can now “manage their application from home and receive their entry visa seamlessly with full accessibility.”
How to Apply for an Israeli eVisa
The eVisa application process is entirely online through the official PIBA portal (israel-entry.piba.gov.il). Applicants must provide the following details and documents:
- Valid email address
- Travel details
- Passport information
- Personal data
- Required documents:
- Valid passport
- Passport-style photo
- Return ticket
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
Once the application is submitted and the fee of 100 NIS (€27 or $28) is paid online, approval is typically granted within 10 business days.
In certain cases, a visit to the nearest Israeli consulate may be required. The eVisa-B2 is valid for 90 days and permits a maximum stay of up to 90 days.
- Validity: Up to 90 Days
- Duration: Up to 90 Days
- Cost: 100 NIS
Important Note: The eVisa-B2 does not guarantee entry into Israel. Border control officers will assess travellers upon arrival to determine their eligibility for entry.
Introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL)
For travellers from 99 visa-exempt countries and territories, Israel has introduced the ETA-IL system. This electronic travel authorization applies to short stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Key Features of ETA-IL:
- Validity: Stays up to 90 days per visit; valid for two years or until the passport expires.
- Cost: 25 NIS (€7 or $7).
- Application Window: Submit online 1 month to 72 hours before departure.
The ETA-IL allows Israeli authorities to pre-screen applications, reducing wait times and ensuring smoother border entry.
Benefits of Israel’s Digitized Entry Procedures
The introduction of the eVisa and ETA-IL programs represents a significant leap forward in facilitating travel to Israel. By digitizing these processes, the country enhances convenience and accessibility for visitors while maintaining robust security measures.
For travellers, this means a more efficient application process, reduced paperwork, and faster border clearance—making Israel an even more appealing destination for tourism, business, and cultural exchanges.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!
