Israel visa requirements for American citizens in 2026
Checked 1 Sep 2026
No changes since 29 May 2026
Entry requirement
Travel authorisation required
Max stay
90 days
Purpose
Tourism
Conditions for entry — required on every route
These apply whether you enter visa-free, on a visa on arrival, or on an e-Visa. Airlines can deny boarding if they're not met.
Passport validity
at least the period of the issued visa and no less than the departure date from Israel of the visitor
Onward ticket
Required — airlines may ask to see it at check-in
· Get an onward ticket (partner) ↗
How to enter
American passport holders travelling for tourism should use the route below to enter Israel.
1
Electronic Travel Authorization
American passport holders do not require a traditional visa to enter Israel, but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding. This is a simple online process and is typically approved within minutes.
ENTRY
Electronic Travel Authorization
ALLOWED STAY
90 days
PURPOSE
Tourist
Application details
Verified against an official source
Validity
up to two years
Entries allowed
multiple
Rule in effect
1 January 2025
Last updated 7 Sep 2026 ·
Source: israel-entry.piba.gov.il ↗
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Further notes
- ETA-IL fee is 25 NIS
- 90 days on each visit in 2-year period if granted.
- Dual nationals of Israel and the United States who don't have an Israeli passport, including infants, may be required to obtain an Israeli passport in order to leave Israel.
- Entry prohibited for any person "who knowingly issues a public call for boycotting Israel".
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Israel from United States?
No, American citizens do not need a visa for Israel, but an approved Electronic Travel Authorization is required before departure.
Do American citizens need a visa for Israel in 2026?
No, American citizens do not need a visa for Israel, but an approved Electronic Travel Authorization is required before departure.
Can American citizens travel to Israel?
Yes, American citizens can travel to Israel once their Electronic Travel Authorization is approved. Airlines check it at boarding.
What is the maximum length of stay in Israel with Electronic Travel Authorization for American citizens?
The maximum length of stay in Israel with Electronic Travel Authorization is 90 days. American citizens must leave the country within the specified period.
What happens if a American citizen overstays their visa in Israel?
Overstaying in Israel can result in fines, penalties, and potentially being banned from entering Israel in the future, even though no visa was required. Ensure to comply with the allowed stay duration of 90 days.
How long must my passport be valid to enter Israel?
Israel requires a passport valid for at least the period of the issued visa and no less than the departure date from Israel of the visitor.
Do American citizens need a return ticket to enter Israel?
Yes — Israel requires proof of onward or return travel, and airlines may ask to see it at check-in.
About Israel
- Official
- State of Israel
- Capital
- Jerusalem
- Currency
- Israeli new shekel
- Language
- Arabic
- Calling code
- +972
- Population
- 10,252,800
- Region
- Asia · Western Asia
Reference links
Last checked 1 Sep 2026 ·
Entry rules can change at short notice — always confirm with the official source before you travel.