Avoid Scams: How to Apply for the Official Israel ETA-IL Visa
What is the Israel ETA-IL visa?
Starting January 1, 2025, all visa-exempt travelers (e.g. citizens of the US, Canada, EU, UK, etc.) must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel) before departure. This online travel permit streamlines entry for short-term visits (tourism, business, or other non-work/non-medical trips). An approved ETA-IL allows you to stay in Israel for up to 90 days per visit and remains valid for two years or until your passport expires. Remember, ETA-IL replaces the older visa-waiver practice, but it does not guarantee entry – Israeli border officers make the final decision. Airlines will check for a valid ETA-IL before boarding, so having this authorization is essential to avoid travel disruptions.
Exemptions: You do not need an ETA-IL if you already hold a valid long-term Israeli visa (e.g. work, student, or partner visas) or if you are an Israeli citizen/permanent resident. Certain officials (diplomats, crew members, seamen, etc.) are also exempt.
How to apply for an ETA-IL (process and timeline)
The ETA-IL application is done entirely online. You must apply through the official Israeli government portal (ending in .gov.il). Prepare the following before you start: your passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond travel), a working email address, your basic travel details, and a credit/debit card for payment. Then complete the online form and submit it at least 72 hours before your planned entry.
Steps to apply:
Collect Documents: Have your eligible passport, email and intended travel dates ready.
Complete Online Form: Fill in your personal and travel information on the official site. Double-check accuracy.
Pay the Fee: After submitting the form, you will be prompted to pay the 25 NIS fee (≈$7 USD) online.
Wait for Confirmation: Most applicants get an immediate approval. In some cases it may take up to 72 hours. The authority will email your ETA-IL authorization.
Keep a copy (digital or printed) of the ETA-IL confirmation with you. Airlines will sync with the ETA-IL system to verify your approval, but it’s wise to have the email or application number on hand.
Avoid scams
The only official ETA-IL fee is 25 Israeli Shekels (about $7 USD). This small government fee is paid directly on the government site at the end of your application. No refund is available after payment. Once approved, your ETA-IL is valid for two years and allows multiple entries (up to 90 days per stay). Always apply well before your trip – the system recommends at least 72 hours prior, though applying earlier is safest. An ETA-IL does not replace the right of border officials to assess entry; it simply ensures you’re pre-approved to travel.
Apply only through the official Israeli government website. Since the launch of ETA-IL, several fraudulent websites have appeared online, mimicking the official Israeli government portal. These sites often charge inflated “service fees” — sometimes up to $49–$99 USD per application — for something that officially costs only 25 NIS (~$7 USD). Some even promise “express approval” or “guaranteed entry,” which is false. Others may collect sensitive passport and payment details for malicious purposes. Travelers should also be cautious of misleading social media ads or unsolicited emails claiming to offer ETA-IL services. Remember: the only secure and recognized application process is through Israel’s official government website ending in .gov.il. To protect yourself, never share your passport details or credit card information on third-party platforms, and always verify you receive an official confirmation email and payment receipt directly from the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ETA-IL and do I need one?
ETA-IL is Israel’s Electronic Travel Authorization for visa-exempt visitors. If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (including the US, Canada, EU, etc.), you must obtain ETA-IL approval before traveling to Israel. Check here
How do I apply for an ETA-IL?
Apply online at the official Israel government ETA-IL portal (ends in .gov.il). Fill out your personal and travel details, upload your passport information, and pay the 25 NIS fee. Official Website
How much does the ETA-IL cost?
The fee is 25 NIS (around $7 USD) per person. This is the only charge; no other payments are required.
How long is the ETA-IL valid, and how long can I stay?
An approved ETA-IL is valid for up to 2 years or until your passport expires. Each visit may be up to 90 days in Israel. You can enter and exit multiple times during the validity period.
What if I don’t have an ETA-IL?
Travelers from visa-exempt countries without an ETA-IL will not be allowed to board flights to Israel. Immigration will also deny entry at the border.
Can I use ETA-IL if I already have an Israeli visa or passport?
No. If you already hold a valid Israeli visa (work, study, residency, etc.) or are an Israeli citizen/permanent resident, you do not need an ETA-IL.
How long does it take to get ETA-IL approval?
In most cases, the ETA-IL is approved instantly after application. In rare cases it may take up to 72 hours. You will receive an email when the decision is made.
What happens after I receive ETA-IL approval?
You’ll get an email with your ETA-IL authorization number and details. Save a copy of this email or print it out. Airlines will check your ETA-IL before boarding, but it’s best to have it readily accessible when you travel.
How can I avoid scams when applying for ETA-IL?
Only use the official Israeli government website (ends in “gov.il”). Beware of private sites that charge around $49 for the same service. Remember, the official fee is only 25 NIS. If a site asks for more or a foreign bank transfer, it’s fraudulent.
I applied for ETA-IL but haven’t received a receipt – what should I do?
The Israeli authority always sends an email receipt for payment. If you did not receive one, double-check that you used the official site. As the consulate notes: “If you didn’t get a receipt – you haven’t been at the ETA-IL site.” Contact eta@piba.gov.il for help if needed.
