In 2024, the Israel Population and Migration Authority will introduce an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which implies that travelers will need to request permission to enter the country in advance. The changes are aimed at improving the process of border control and will affect tourists from countries with a visa-free regime.
According to the press service of the Ministry of Tourism, it is expected that the pilot project will start operating for US citizens in early May. The exact start dates of the project in other countries have not yet been set, but an approximate date has been set – June 1, 2024, when the project will extend to all countries with which the visa-free regime applies, including the Russian Federation. Until then, the old entry rules will apply.
At the same time, the statement emphasizes that ETA is not a visa. The agreement on visa-free regime between Israel and the Russian Federation will continue to operate.
The main details of the ETA project implementation:
1. The application process:
Applications for ETA will be submitted online. The details will be published before the start of the project.
2. Required documents:
To submit an application, it is enough to have a standard set of documents. For Russian citizens, these are: a foreign passport, valid for six months from the date of departure from Israel, round-trip air tickets, travel medical insurance, details of an upcoming trip to the Holy Land.
3. Application processing time:
It will take up to 48 hours to process an ETA application.
4. Cost and payment:
The cost of the ETA is 25 shekels per person (approximately 618 rubles).
5. Validity period:
The ETA is valid for 2 years.
6. Entry to Israel:
With the printed ETA document, tourists will be able to use electronic terminals at the border, bypassing the personal control of the border service.
7. Refusal to issue an ETA:
In case of refusal of entry, a 24-hour contact center will operate to provide explanations.
8. Traveling with children:
Parents will be able to apply for an ETA on behalf of their children.
At the same time, an electronic visa will be introduced for countries with a visa regime.
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