Jerusalem Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Jerusalem, as part of Israel, welcomes millions of visitors annually for tourism, religious pilgrimages, and business purposes. Entry requirements vary significantly depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and intended length of stay. Most Western tourists can enter visa-free for short stays, while travelers from other regions may need to obtain advance authorization or visas. The immigration process for entering Jerusalem typically occurs at Ben Gurion International Airport (Tel Aviv), Ramon Airport (Eilat), or land border crossings. Israeli immigration authorities maintain rigorous security procedures, and travelers should be prepared for detailed questioning about their travel plans, accommodation, and contacts in Israel. The process can be more extensive than in many other countries, particularly for certain nationalities or travelers with specific travel histories. It's essential to understand that entry stamps and visa policies can have implications for future travel to certain countries. Travelers should also be aware that Israeli authorities have the right to refuse entry at their discretion. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, and have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your visit readily available.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Israel operates a multi-tiered visa policy. Citizens of many Western countries enjoy visa-free access for tourism and business visits, while others require advance authorization or traditional visa applications. The B/2 tourist visa is the most common category for visitors to Jerusalem.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days (3 months) within a 180-day period

Citizens of these countries can enter Israel without a visa for tourism or business purposes

Includes

United States Canada United Kingdom All EU member states (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, etc.) Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Argentina Brazil Mexico South Africa Switzerland Norway

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date. Visa-free entry does not permit work or study. Immigration officers may request proof of accommodation, return ticket, and sufficient funds. Some nationalities may receive shorter stays at officer's discretion.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eVisa)

Typically up to 90 days for tourism

Citizens of select countries can apply for an electronic visa online before travel

Includes

China India Russia Ukraine Thailand Vietnam Philippines

How to Apply: Apply online through the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority website at least 72 hours (preferably 1-2 weeks) before travel. Processing typically takes 5-10 business days. Applicants must upload passport copy, photo, and travel details.
Cost: Approximately $25-45 USD depending on nationality and processing time

Not all nationalities are eligible for eVisa. Some travelers from these countries may still need to apply at an embassy. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on individual circumstances.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type; tourist visas typically 30-90 days

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or eVisa must apply for a traditional visa at an Israeli embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply in person or by mail at your nearest Israeli embassy or consulate. Processing can take 2-8 weeks. Required documents typically include completed application form, passport photos, valid passport, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, financial statements, and travel insurance.

This includes most Middle Eastern and North African countries, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and many African nations. Requirements vary significantly by nationality. Some nationalities may face additional scrutiny or restrictions. Apply well in advance of intended travel.

Arrival Process

Israel maintains strict security protocols at all entry points. The immigration process in Jerusalem (via Ben Gurion Airport or land borders) involves security screening, document verification, and immigration interviews. Be prepared for thorough questioning and remain patient and cooperative throughout the process.

Security Screening (Pre-Immigration)

Before reaching immigration, all travelers undergo security interviews and baggage screening. Officers may ask about your travel plans, contacts in Israel, and travel history. Answer honestly and concisely.

Document Check

Present your passport (valid for 6+ months), return ticket, and any required visa documentation. Officers will verify your eligibility for entry.

Immigration Interview

Immigration officers will ask about your purpose of visit, accommodation details, length of stay, and financial means. Questions may be detailed and repeated. Common questions include where you're staying, who you're visiting, your occupation, and previous travel history.

Biometric Data Collection

Fingerprints and photographs may be taken as part of the entry process for certain nationalities or at officer's discretion.

Entry Card Issuance

Instead of stamping passports, Israel typically issues a separate entry card (B/2 card for tourists). Keep this card safe as you'll need to present it upon departure. Note any restrictions on the card regarding permitted areas or duration of stay.

Baggage Collection and Customs

After clearing immigration, collect your luggage and proceed through customs. You may be selected for additional baggage inspection.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Must have at least one blank page for entry card stapling.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Israel. Electronic confirmation is acceptable but have a printed copy as backup.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, hostel bookings, or invitation letter from host with contact details. Officers may call to verify.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during stay (approximately $100-150 USD per day recommended).

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory for all nationalities, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and may be requested.

Visa or eVisa Approval

If required for your nationality, printed confirmation of visa approval or eVisa authorization.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Arrive with plenty of time before your connecting travel. Immigration and security can take 1-3 hours during busy periods.

Be honest and consistent in your answers. Immigration officers are trained to detect inconsistencies.

Have all documents organized and easily accessible. Use a folder with printed confirmations of accommodation, return flights, and itinerary.

Remain calm and polite, even if questioning seems repetitive or intrusive. The process is standard security protocol.

If you have stamps from Arab or Muslim-majority countries in your passport, be prepared for additional questions but this alone should not prevent entry for most tourists.

Keep your entry card (B/2 card) in your passport at all times. You'll need it to exit the country and for hotel check-ins.

If you plan to visit Palestinian territories and then travel to Arab countries, request no Israeli stamp. Israel now uses separate entry cards for this reason.

Have contact information for your embassy or consulate readily available in case of any issues.

Ensure your phone is charged so you can access digital confirmations if needed.

If traveling for religious purposes, be prepared to discuss your itinerary in detail, including specific sites you plan to visit.

Customs & Duty-Free

Israeli customs regulations are strictly enforced. All travelers must pass through customs after collecting baggage. There are 'Red Channel' (goods to declare) and 'Green Channel' (nothing to declare) lanes. Penalties for false declarations can be severe, including fines and confiscation.

Alcohol

Up to 1 liter of spirits and 2 liters of wine per person

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal use only.

Tobacco

250 cigarettes OR 250 grams of tobacco products per person

Must be 18 years or older. Includes cigars, pipe tobacco, and other tobacco products combined.

Currency

Amounts exceeding 80,000 NIS (approximately $23,000 USD) or equivalent in foreign currency must be declared

No limit on amount you can bring, but declaration is mandatory above threshold. Includes cash, traveler's checks, and bearer bonds.

Gifts/Goods

Personal goods and gifts up to $200 USD value per person

Excludes alcohol and tobacco which have separate limits. Goods must be for personal use, not for sale. Electronics and valuable items may require declaration.

Perfume

Up to 250ml of eau de toilette and 50ml of perfume

Must be for personal use only.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - Severe penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition without proper permits - Including replica weapons and parts
Counterfeit currency and goods - Subject to confiscation and legal action
Obscene or pornographic materials - As determined by Israeli law
Materials deemed inciting to violence or terrorism - Subject to security review
Endangered species products - Including ivory, certain animal skins, and protected plants
Gambling devices - Certain types are prohibited
Meat and dairy products from most countries - Due to kosher regulations and disease prevention
Plants and seeds without phytosanitary certificate - Agricultural restrictions apply

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - Must be in original packaging with prescription. Quantities limited to personal use (typically 3-month supply). Some medications legal elsewhere may be restricted in Israel.
Drones and radio-controlled devices - Require special permits from Israeli authorities. Unauthorized use can result in confiscation and penalties.
Professional camera/video equipment - May require declaration and temporary import permit if value exceeds limits.
Religious items for distribution - Items like Bibles, religious texts, or materials for missionary purposes may be questioned or restricted.
Certain electronics - High-value electronics should be declared to avoid duty on exit.
Archaeological artifacts - Strictly controlled; illegal to remove from country without permits.
Dual-use items - Technology or equipment that could have military applications requires permits.

Health Requirements

Israel maintains high health and sanitation standards. Currently, there are no mandatory vaccinations for most travelers entering Israel, though this can change based on global health situations and your travel history.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from or having transited through yellow fever endemic countries within 6 days prior to arrival. Proof of vaccination must be presented.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines including MMR, DTP, and seasonal influenza
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to possible food/water contamination
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or need medical procedures
Typhoid - Recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor activities or animal contact

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for all nationalities, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Medical care in Israel is excellent but expensive for non-residents. Ensure your insurance covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Some countries' citizens may be required to show proof of health insurance as a condition of visa approval.

Current Health Requirements: Health requirements can change rapidly based on global health situations (COVID-19, disease outbreaks, etc.). Check the Israeli Ministry of Health website and your country's travel advisory 2-4 weeks before departure and again just before travel for current requirements regarding testing, quarantine, vaccinations, or health declarations. Requirements may vary based on your vaccination status and countries recently visited.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Israel before and during your trip

Register with your embassy's travel registration system. Main diplomatic missions are located in Tel Aviv, with some consular services in Jerusalem. Check your government's travel advisory website for current safety information and contact details.

Immigration Authority

Israeli Population and Immigration Authority - www.gov.il/en/departments/population_and_immigration_authority

For visa applications, extensions, and official immigration information. Call center: *3450 (from Israeli numbers) or +972-2-629-4666 (from abroad)

Emergency Services

Emergency services number: 100 (Police), 101 (Ambulance - Magen David Adom), 102 (Fire)

For all emergencies including police, ambulance, and fire services. English-speaking operators available. Single emergency number 112 also works from mobile phones.

Tourist Information

Israel Ministry of Tourism - Information hotline: *3888 or +972-2-992-3888

Available for tourist assistance, complaints, and general information in multiple languages

Ben Gurion Airport Information

Airport information: +972-3-975-5555 or www.iaa.gov.il

For flight information, lost and found, and airport services

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (family passports are not accepted). Minors under 18 traveling alone or with one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) in English or Hebrew, including contact information and travel dates. This is especially important for children with different surnames from accompanying adults. Birth certificates may be requested. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and Israeli immigration.

Dual Nationals and Israeli Citizens

Israeli citizens, including dual nationals, must enter and exit Israel on their Israeli passport. This applies even if you hold citizenship of a visa-free country. Dual nationals should contact an Israeli embassy before travel. Israeli citizens or those eligible for citizenship under the Law of Return may face different entry procedures and military service obligations.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require an import permit from the Israeli Veterinary Services (apply at least 30 days in advance). Dogs and cats must be microchipped, have current rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before travel), and a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Some breeds are restricted. Pets must enter through Ben Gurion Airport and may be quarantined. Costs and requirements vary by animal type and origin country.

Extended Stays and Visa Extensions

Tourist visas can sometimes be extended at Israeli immigration offices (typically in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv). Apply before your current authorization expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and are granted at discretion of immigration authorities. You'll need to show proof of sufficient funds, accommodation, and valid reason for extension. Multiple extensions may be difficult to obtain. For stays longer than tourist visas allow, consider other visa categories (student, work, volunteer) which require advance application.

Journalists and Media Personnel

Foreign journalists and media professionals must obtain a Government Press Office (GPO) press card before arrival or immediately upon entry. This requires advance application with credentials, assignment letters, and passport copies. Tourist visas are not appropriate for journalistic work. Filming permits may be required for professional video production. Contact the GPO well in advance of travel.

Visiting Palestinian Territories

Tourists can generally visit Palestinian-controlled areas of the West Bank with Israeli tourist visas, though access may be restricted during security situations. Inform your accommodation and consider security conditions. Gaza is under blockade and effectively closed to tourists. Visiting Palestinian territories may affect future travel to some countries. Keep your Israeli entry card safe as you'll need it to return to Israeli-controlled areas.

Previous Visa Refusals or Deportations

If you've been previously refused entry, deported, or overstayed a visa in Israel, you may face entry restrictions or bans. Disclose this information if asked during visa application or at immigration. Attempting to enter without disclosing previous issues can result in permanent ban. Contact an Israeli embassy for guidance on your specific situation before attempting to travel.

Volunteer or Religious Work

Tourist visas do not permit volunteer work, religious missionary activities, or employment. Special visas are required for these purposes and must be obtained in advance through Israeli embassies. Volunteering on kibbutzim or at archaeological sites requires specific volunteer visas. Religious workers need appropriate credentials and sponsorship from recognized religious institutions.