New rules for entry into Israel: ETA-IL permit mandatory from 2025

Travellers arriving in Israel without a visa will be required to obtain an ETA-IL electronic entry permit from 1 January 2025. The measure was originally scheduled to take effect on 1 August 2024, but Israeli authorities have postponed the introduction of the new requirement until early 2025 to allow more time for preparations.

The ETA-IL electronic permit, introduced on 1 July 2024, will be free until the end of the year. It will be required for citizens of the 99 countries and territories that are exempt from visa requirements for entry into Israel. Travellers can voluntarily apply for ETA-IL until the end of 2024, after which the permit will remain free and valid for an unlimited number of entries for two years.

From the beginning of 2025, the execution of an ETA-IL will become mandatory, and a fee of 25 shekels (about €7) will be charged. This decision by Israel's Civil Registration and Immigration Authority (PIBA) follows requests from airlines to give them more time to prepare.

Travellers are advised to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and apply for an ETA-IL in advance to avoid inconvenience during travel. The introduction of the mandatory permit is aimed at improving control over entry and exit to Israel, as well as ensuring the country's security.