Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Visas

With a few exceptions, visitors to Israel and the Palestinian Territories need only a passport that’s valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Nationals of most Central American and African countries (but not South Africa), India, Singapore and some ex-Soviet republics also require a pre-issued visa (US$17). Work visas (US$33) are issued by Israeli embassies to people with a letter from their employer in Israel. The employer must also receive approval from the Ministry of the Interior.

Visas given at the border are valid for 90 days. But (importantly) you will be asked how long you plan to stay in Israel and what you state is generally what you get. So even if you don’t plan on staying the full three months, you might as well ask for it anyway. Kibbutz and moshav volunteers must secure a volunteer’s visa, which can be arranged with the assistance of the kibbutz or moshav.

If there is any indication that you are seeking illegal employment you may be questioned by immigration officials and asked to provide evidence of a return ticket and sufficient funds for the intended length of stay. Those who can’t comply may find themselves on the next flight home.

Visa extensions

To stay more than three months, visitors must apply for a visa through the Ministry of the Interior Tel Aviv (HaKira; 03-736 2534; 3rd fl, Tel Aviv Government Complex, Kaplan St); Jerusalem (02-629 0222; 1 Shlomzion HaMalka St); Eilat (08-637 6332; HaTemarim Blvd); there are offices in most cities and towns. Join the queue by 8am or you could be waiting all day. You’ll need 145NIS for the visa extension (plus 75NIS if you take the multientry visa option) and one passport-sized photo. You must also present evidence of sufficient funds for the extended stay. The Tel Aviv office is so backed up with applications that your first day of waiting in line is only to make an appointment to come back another day (usually one month later). For faster service try applying at a smaller branch office.

Note that overstaying your allotted time elicits a fine of 135NIS per month – this can be sorted out at Ministry of the Interior offices or Ben-Gurion airport, but not at land borders. Travellers who overstay by just a few days report no hassles or fines.