Israel to Launch Exclusive E-Visa Program for Indian Tourists by Year-End

Israel is wooing Indian tourists with a first-of-its-kind e-visa program expected to launch later this year. This move, coupled with increased flight connectivity and marketing efforts, aims to make visiting Israel smoother and more accessible for Indian travellers.
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Good news for Indian globetrotters! Israel is rolling out the red carpet for travellers from India, with plans to introduce a first-of-its-kind e-visa program later this year. This move aims to significantly boost tourist arrivals from the world’s second-most populous nation.

E-visas for a Streamlined Entry Process

Currently, Israel doesn’t offer e-visas for any country. However, Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing at the Israel Ministry of Tourism, India, revealed plans for a pilot program specifically for Indian travellers.

“We are planning to come up with an e-visa program,” Bangera stated. “It’s still in its initial stages, but by the end of the year, we should have a pilot running for e-visas for Indians.”

India: A Top Travel Market for Israel

This initiative highlights the importance of the Indian travel market for Israel. “India is the first country we are doing e-visas for,” Bangera explained.

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“We see huge potential in the Indian outbound travel market, and this e-visa program is designed to make it easier for Indian tourists to visit Israel.”

Enhancing Connectivity and Safety

To further boost tourism, Israel is in discussions with IndiGo and Air India to increase flight capacity. “We are doing everything possible to assure travellers that it is safe to visit Israel,” Bangera noted.

“Air India has expanded its operations from three to four flights and is considering daily flights, possibly adding routes from Mumbai in addition to Delhi.”

Also Read: Visa-Free to Israel? Not Anymore! New ETA Requirement Explained

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Current Visa Options for Traveling to Israel

Currently, Indian travellers looking to visit Israel can choose from several visa options, which include:

  1. Tourist Visa (B2 Visa): This visa is for those who wish to travel to Israel for tourism, visiting family or friends, or attending business meetings. It is typically valid for up to three months.
  2. Student Visa (A2 Visa): Issued to students who have been accepted to study in recognized institutions in Israel, including academic institutions, yeshivot, and youth institutions.
  3. Work Visa (B1 Visa): For those who have received a job offer in Israel. This visa requires prior approval from the Ministry of Interior.
  4. Business Visa: Similar to the tourist visa but intended specifically for those travelling to Israel for business-related activities.
  5. Pilgrimage Visa: This special visa is for those travelling to Israel for religious pilgrimages.

To apply for any of these visas, travellers must submit their applications to the Israeli consulate, providing the necessary documentation and fees.

Tourism Statistics and Future Plans

From January to June this year, Israel welcomed 5,700 Indian tourists. Globally, the country received approximately 495,300 tourists during the same period, with the US and Europe being the largest source markets.

With these strategic initiatives, Israel is poised to significantly increase its appeal to Indian travellers, making it easier and more convenient for them to explore the rich cultural and historical landscapes of the country.

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Manish Khandelwal
Manish Khandelwal

Manish Khandelwal, a travel-tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Travelobiz.com, he's passionate about writing.

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