With the war’s death toll nearing 46,000 people, Israel is facing widespread international criticism and ruptured diplomatic relations with countries such as Ireland and Turkey. There is currently no cease-fire in place, and there are still Israeli hostages being held.
Amid this atmosphere, the Population and Immigration Authority branch of the Israeli government introduced a requirement that all foreign arrivals to the country must apply for an e-visa before travel—similarly to other electronic travel authorizations required by countries like the U.S. and soon coming for travel to the nations making up the European Union. The ETA-IL permit will need to be applied online for 25 NIS (USD 7).
Starting on January 1, 2025, all foreigners coming into Israel will need to have the permit; dual citizens arriving on a foreign passport will be able to travel without a visa until December 31, 2025. The rule applies specifically to previously visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Visitors whose passport requires applying for a tourist visa at an embassy or consulate will still need to do so.
‘Need to be as open as we can for those who are interested in visiting’
While the government justified the decision based on national security (electronic authorization screens arrivals before they get to customs) and the fact that many other countries are taking similar measures, local travel industry insiders have criticized its sudden implementation. The last-minute deadline could sow confusion and discourage visitors, whose numbers have already dwindled significantly amid the war.
Even with the nearly one million visitors who did come to Israel in 2024, the number of international arrivals has dropped by more than 80% since October 2023.
With information from The Street
TYT Newsroom
