Israel will join a growing number of Western countries that require advance online applications and fees for nationals of visa-exempt countries, including the United States.
Until now, Americans who wanted to travel to Israel didn't have to do anything more than buy a plane ticket and pack their bags.
But electronic travel authorization through a designated website will be required starting Aug. 1, the Israeli Tourism Ministry announced this week. A pilot program waiving the 25 shekel ($7) fee will begin Saturday for travelers from the United States and Germany, and will be expanded to all visa-exempt countries on July 1. Travelers are advised to apply 72 hours before booking their flights and accommodations.
The ETA-IL program is similar to programs recently implemented in Europe, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, with the aim of screening travelers suspected of posing a security threat or who may violate tourist visa restrictions by working or overstaying before they arrive at a port of entry.
Most countries that have launched similar programs advise 72 hours' notice, but permits often arrive by email within a few hours. The U.S. has warned that people who don't apply for travel permits in advance may face delays to boarding or be denied entry at the border, even if they come from a country that participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. (Israel was only added to the program last September.)
If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country and are an Israeli citizen or permanent resident, you do not need to apply for a permit. Nationals of non-visa-exempt countries must complete a more difficult visa application process. The permit is valid for two years and allows multiple entries of up to 90 days.
