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Most visitors to the State of Israel this summer will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before they leave home. The form will be required beginning August 1 for travelers from the United States, Canada and all other visa-exempt countries.

There will be a fee of 25 NIS (about US$7) per application. Responses will be sent out within 72 hours, or sometimes in as little as a few minutes.

The new rule does not apply to visitors from countries for which a visa is required, who still will have to obtain a visa, or to Israeli citizens or holders of an Israeli identity number.

The ETA-IL system will open for applications starting June 1, 2024, as a pilot program for holders of American and German passports only. During this pilot phase, submitting an application will be voluntary and there will be no fee. The system will open to holders of other passports on July 1, 2024 HERE.

Travelers can fill out the form any time prior to their departure, but it is recommended that they submit it at least 72 hours before making any other travel arrangements, such as airline tickets or hotel reservations.

The ETA-IL is valid for two years, for trips of 90 days or less within that period. Travelers expecting to stay longer than 90 days will have to request an extension.

A passport is also required for all visitors, but Israel does not require that the passport be good for at least six months (General information on tourist entry to Israel | Ministry of Tourism (www.gov.il).