The Israel eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization, code ETA-IL) is valid for up to 2 years from the date of approval, or until your linked passport expires, whichever comes first. UK passport holders can make multiple trips during this period, with each stay limited to up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days from the date of entry into Israel.
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. This is an independent informational guide for UK travellers, not affiliated with the Israeli government or PIBA. For authoritative details, refer to the PIBA portal.
What Is the Israel eTA and Who Needs It?
The Israel eTA (ETA-IL) is a mandatory travel authorization required for UK passport holders entering Israel since 1 January 2025. It is not a visa and does not guarantee entry; the final decision rests with Israeli border control. The ETA-IL is required for citizens of any visa-exempt eligible country, including the UK. Exemptions apply to Israeli citizens, holders of valid Israeli visas (B1/B3/B4/A1-A5), accredited diplomats, air crew on official missions, and seafarers. A pilot phase ran in July 2024 on a voluntary, free-of-charge basis before mandatory enforcement began.
How Long Is the Israel eTA Valid?
The Israel eTA is valid for up to 2 years from the date of approval, or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. The ETA-IL cannot remain valid beyond the passport expiry date it was issued against, even if the 2-year period has not elapsed. The eTA allows multiple entries for tourism and business purposes throughout its validity period. Applications are submitted via the PIBA portal.
Passport Validity Requirements and eTA Costs for UK Travellers
The Israel eTA requires a UK passport valid for at least 90 days from the date of entry into Israel. Both biometric and non-biometric British citizen passports are accepted, provided they meet this minimum passport validity rule. The application costs 25 NIS (approximately £5.40 at September 2026 rates, variable depending on exchange rate). The fee is non-refundable after submission and is paid by credit or debit card on the PIBA portal.
| Requirement | Rule | Example for UK Holder |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum passport validity | At least 90 days from date of entry into Israel | Passport expiring 15/04/2027, last eligible entry: 15/01/2027 |
| HM Passport Office renewal | Standard processing: 10+ weeks | Renew well before planned eTA application |
| eTA transferability | The Israel eTA cannot be transferred between passports | New passport after expiry: full new application required (25 NIS) |
Duration of Stay: 90-Day Limits and Entry vs. Departure Rules
The Israel eTA allows a maximum stay of up to 90 days per visit and permits multiple entries within its validity window. Israel does not enforce a rolling 90/180-day cumulative cap like the Schengen Area or the upcoming ETIAS system (expected 2026); each visit allows up to 90 days independently, and a brief border exit resets the counter.
The Israel eTA must be valid on the date you enter Israel. If it expires during your stay, you may legally complete your visit but cannot re-enter without a new authorization.
| Scenario | eTA Approved | Passport Expiry | Travel Dates | Can Enter? | Can Re-enter After Passport Expiry? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 01/01/2026 | 15/03/2026 | 01/02/2026-28/02/2026 | Yes | No |
| B | 01/01/2026 | 15/03/2026 | 01/03/2026-25/03/2026 | No (validity < 90 days) | N/A |
| C | 01/01/2026 | 01/03/2028 | 01/06/2026-30/06/2026 | Yes | Yes |
How to Apply, Check Status, and Renew Your eTA
UK travellers should apply for the Israel eTA at least 72 hours before travel via the PIBA portal. Standard processing takes 24 to 72 hours, with some approvals within minutes. To check your ETA-IL status, enter your passport number and application reference on the same portal.
Submit your application
Via the PIBA portal. Standard processing takes 24 to 72 hours.
Check your status online
By entering your passport number and application reference on the same portal.
Reapply when triggered
By a new passport, name change, gender change, or citizenship change. The Israel eTA linked to your previous passport becomes void and cannot be transferred. A new application costs 25 NIS.
Approved ETA-IL holders arriving at Ben Gurion Airport may use automated e-gates and receive an entry card (not a stamp) to keep with their passport until departure.
42 Agripas st. Jerusalem IsraelFor help, email [email protected] (English only) or call +972-2-535-9740. Before departure, review the FCDO travel advice for Israel.
FAQ: Israel eTA Validity and Passport Rules for UK Travellers
How long is eTA Israel valid?
The Israel eTA is valid for up to 2 years from the date of approval, or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. Multiple trips are possible while both remain valid.
Does the Israel eTA expire when my passport expires?
Yes. The Israel eTA is linked to your passport and expires when the passport expires. You must submit a completely new application with your new passport.
What is the minimum passport validity required for the Israel eTA?
Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days from the date of entry into Israel. This applies to all UK citizens holding a British citizen passport.
What happens if my passport expires before my Israel eTA?
You must obtain a new passport and reapply for a new Israel eTA. The old ETA-IL is void and cannot be transferred; a new 25 NIS fee applies.
Can I make multiple trips to Israel with the same eTA?
Yes. The Israel eTA allows multiple entries within its validity period, with each visit limited to a maximum of 90 days.
Is there a rolling 90/180-day cap like Schengen for the Israel eTA?
No. Israel does not enforce a rolling cumulative 90/180-day cap. Each visit allows up to 90 days independently, and a brief border exit resets the counter.
When should I apply for the Israel eTA before travelling?
Apply at least 72 hours before travel. UK travellers are advised to apply one week in advance to account for processing and potential payment issues.
How much does the Israel eTA cost for UK travellers?
The Israel eTA costs 25 NIS (approximately £5.40 at September 2026 rates). The fee is non-refundable and must be paid by credit or debit card on the PIBA portal.
Does the Israel eTA need to be valid on my departure date?
The Israel eTA must be valid on the date of entry into Israel. If it expires during your stay, you can legally complete your visit but cannot re-enter without a new authorization.
How do I check my Israel eTA validity and status?
Check your Israel eTA status on the PIBA portal using your passport number and application reference. For assistance, email [email protected] (English only).
