The ETIAS Eligibility for Israeli Citizens:

  • Israel will be one of the initial countries to participate in the ETIAS program.
  • Starting in 2025, Israeli citizens will be able to apply for ETIAS.
  • The online application system will be available for Israeli citizens, providing them with a convenient and efficient way to apply for ETIAS.

Other ETIAS Requirements for Israeli citizens:

  • The online application process is the only way for Israeli citizens to apply for ETIAS.
  • ETIAS will allow for entry into Europe by air, sea, or overland travel.
  • To be eligible for ETIAS, travelers must have a machine-readable e-passport.
  • ETIAS is designed for short trips for tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes.
  • For those under the age of 18 or over the age of 70, the ETIAS application fee will be waived.

Starting from 2025, Israeli citizens will have to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in order to enter the participating European countries for a maximum period of 90 days. This requirement will be in effect for all purposes including tourism, business, transit, or medical visits. 

The European Union has taken action to address the increase in terrorism around the world by introducing the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The goal of ETIAS is to improve the security of member states by conducting thorough background checks on travelers entering the EU from non-European countries.

The ETIAS program was approved in 2016, and it took four years of meticulous planning and preparation to implement the new screening tool. During this period, the required systems were developed and integrated with existing immigration databases and other security data. The aim was to provide a seamless and effective screening process for travelers entering the participating European countries.

Starting in 2025, Israeli citizens traveling to Europe will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorization before they board an aircraft, sea carrier, or coach vehicle. This requirement applies to travelers who will only be transiting in Europe en route to other destinations, as well as those who plan to stay in the European Union for more than 90 days.

It is important for Israeli citizens to understand that ETIAS authorization is not a substitute for a Schengen visa. If you plan to stay in Europe for more than 90 days or for purposes that are not allowed under the ETIAS program, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa. You can find additional information about the requirements for both ETIAS and Schengen visas by visiting the official ETIAS website at https://etias.co.uk/.

To help ensure a smooth and seamless travel experience, it is recommended that Israeli citizens complete their ETIAS application at least 96 hours before their scheduled departure date. The ETIAS requirements page and the ETIAS FAQs provide comprehensive information about the application process, including the documents and information that you will need to submit.

Before starting your ETIAS application, it is important to carefully review the requirements and FAQs. This will help you to avoid any potential delays or the risk of having your ETIAS application refused. To get the most up-to-date information and to ensure that your ETIAS application is processed as quickly and efficiently as possible, be sure to visit the ETIAS website for the latest details and guidelines.

From 2025 onwards, travelers will be required to have full Israeli citizenship in order to be eligible to apply for an ETIAS authorization. This change has been implemented to ensure that travelers entering the European Schengen Area have a valid and secure citizenship status.

However, for travelers who hold a passport or travel document with a different status, they may be required to obtain a full Schengen visitor visa instead of an ETIAS authorization. This is because these travelers do not meet the eligibility criteria for an ETIAS authorization and therefore need to apply for a more traditional visa to enter the Schengen Area.

For Israeli citizens, the ETIAS application process is expected to be quick and efficient. Usually, the authorization will be processed and approved within a matter of minutes. The authorization will be sent via email in the form of a PDF document. There is no need to worry about carrying physical documents as the ETIAS authorization will be stored electronically and linked to the passport details stored in the European Immigration system.

The ETIAS authorization provides several benefits to travelers who meet the eligibility criteria. These include:

  • Validity: The ETIAS authorization is valid for a period of three years from the date of issue.
  • Multiple entries: The ETIAS authorization allows travelers to enter the European Schengen Area multiple times within a 90-day duration.
  • Fast and convenient: The authorization process is fast and efficient, with the authorization delivered electronically.
  • Accessibility: The application for ETIAS authorization can be made on a desktop, tablet, or mobile device.

In order to ensure a smooth and successful ETIAS application process, travelers are advised to follow a few guidelines. These include:

  • Timing: The application for ETIAS authorization should be submitted at least 96 hours prior to the traveler’s intended departure date.
  • Denial of ETIAS: If the application for ETIAS authorization is denied, travelers can still apply for a full visitor visa.
  • Entry guarantee: It is important to note that an ETIAS authorization does not guarantee entry to Europe. The final decision on entry is made by the border security personnel of the European country of arrival.

By following these guidelines, travelers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when applying for an ETIAS authorization.