If you are planning a trip to the Holy Land, whether your destination is Israel, Palestine, or both, it is important to understand Israelโs Electronic Travel Authorization system, known as ETA-IL.
Starting in 2025, many travelers who previously entered without a visa must now apply for ETA-IL before traveling. This applies to tourists, pilgrims, and visitors joining guided tours, including those traveling exclusively to Palestinian cities such as Bethlehem or Jericho.
This guide explains what ETA-IL is, who needs it, how to apply, and why applying early is essential for a smooth journey.
What Is ETA-IL
ETA-IL is an online travel authorization issued by the Israel Population and Immigration Authority. It allows travelers from visa-exempt countries to enter Israel for short stays of up to 90 days for purposes such as tourism, pilgrimage, or business.
ETA-IL is not a visa. It is a digital pre-approval that confirms you are allowed to travel to Israel before you arrive. Airlines and border authorities use it to verify eligibility prior to boarding and entry.
Important for Travelers Visiting Palestine
Many travelers are surprised to learn that ETA-IL is required even if your destination is Palestine.
Why ETA-IL applies to Palestine visitors
There are no international airports or independent border crossings into Palestine.
All international travelers must enter through Israel, whether arriving by:
โข Ben Gurion International Airport
โข Land crossings from Jordan or Egypt
โข Sea entry
Because of this, Israeli entry regulations apply to all travelers, including those who:
โข Plan to visit only Bethlehem or the West Bank
โข Are traveling with a Palestinian tour operator
โข Are on a faith-based or pilgrimage tour
โข Do not plan to stay overnight in Israel
👉 If ETA-IL is required to enter Israel, it is also required to visit Palestine.
Who Needs to Apply for ETA-IL
You must apply for ETA-IL if:
โข You hold a passport from a visa-exempt country such as the United States, Canada, most European countries, Australia, and others
โข Your visit is for tourism, pilgrimage, or short business travel
โข Your stay is 90 days or less
โข You are entering Israel by air, land, or sea
You do not need ETA-IL if:
โข You already hold a valid Israeli visa such as a work, student, or long-stay visa
โข You are an Israeli citizen or permanent resident
โข You are traveling under specific diplomatic or official exemptions
When Should You Apply
Travelers should apply as early as possible, and at least 72 hours before departure.
Although many applications are approved quickly, delays can occur. Applying early helps avoid:
โข Flight boarding issues
โข Last-minute stress
โข Changes to travel plans
We strongly recommend completing your ETA-IL application before booking flights, especially during busy travel seasons.
How Long ETA-IL Is Valid
Once approved, ETA-IL is generally valid for:
โข Up to two years, or
โข Until your passport expires, whichever comes first
During this period, you may enter Israel multiple times without reapplying, as long as your passport details remain the same.
You must apply again if you receive a new passport or your personal details change.
Application Fee
The ETA-IL application fee is 25 Israeli Shekels (about $7), paid online by credit card.
Important reminder:
Apply only through the official government website. Third-party websites often charge unnecessary extra fees and are not official.
Official website:
https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/
How to Apply for ETA-IL Step by Step
Applying for ETA-IL is done entirely online and takes only a few minutes.
You will need:
โข A valid passport with at least three months validity beyond your arrival date
โข A working email address
โข Basic travel details such as arrival date and length of stay
Application steps:
- Visit the official ETA-IL website
- Fill in your personal and passport details
- Provide travel information
- Pay the application fee
- Submit and wait for confirmation by email
Most travelers receive a response within 72 hours.
We recommend saving a copy of your approval email or keeping the reference number accessible when traveling.
Why Applying in Advance Matters
Travelers without an approved ETA-IL may:
โข Be denied boarding by airlines
โข Face delays at the airport
โข Experience unnecessary stress at arrival
Even with ETA-IL approval, final entry is always determined by border authorities. However, having ETA-IL greatly improves the entry process and ensures compliance with current regulations.
What This Means for Michael Tours Travelers
All Michael Tours itineraries, including tours focused on Palestine and Bethlehem, require entry through Israel.
For this reason:
โข ETA-IL is mandatory for eligible travelers
โข It should be completed before travel
โข It applies even if your tour is labeled โPalestine onlyโ
Applying early ensures your journey begins smoothly and allows you to focus on the experience, not paperwork.
Final Note
ETA-IL is part of a global trend toward digital travel authorization systems, similar to those used by other countries. It is simple, affordable, and valid for multiple trips.
If you are unsure whether ETA-IL applies to you, or if you need guidance before traveling, Michael Tours is happy to assist.
Planning ahead helps ensure a peaceful, well-prepared journey to the Holy Land.
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