Travel Advisory

Due to Israel committing genocide it is not advised to travel to this region at this time.

Israel

The Land of History
and Holy

Flag of Israel

Israel, located in the Middle East along the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its ancient history, sacred sites, and diverse landscapes. Home to iconic landmarks like Jerusalem’s Old City, the Dead Sea, and Tel Aviv’s vibrant coast, Israel offers a profound mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The country’s geography ranges from desert expanses to fertile valleys and mountainous regions.

Israeli culture blends Jewish, Arab, and global influences, reflected in its music, dance like the hora, and cuisine featuring hummus, falafel, and shakshuka (poached eggs in tomato sauce). Known for its historical significance and warm hospitality, Israel is a captivating destination for spiritual seekers and cultural explorers alike.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Israel.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Israel. Passports containing stamps or visas from certain countries (e.g., Iran, Lebanon, Syria) may lead to questioning or entry denial due to regional tensions.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from many nations (e.g., US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, Japan) can enter Israel with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list (e.g., some African and Asian countries) must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Israel through an Israeli embassy or consulate.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Israel using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 90 days (tourist visa, B/2). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year depending on the purpose.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days (e.g., work, study, or family visa, A/2 or A/3). Valid for one year, allowing application for a residence permit with approval from the Ministry of Interior.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are limited to 90 days within a 180-day period for eligible nationalities. Extensions may be granted with approval.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas (B/1) require sponsorship. Entry to the West Bank or Gaza requires additional permits due to security concerns.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Israel may reintroduce measures like mandatory health declarations or vaccination proof.
Toll

Driving in Israel

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Israel has several toll roads, including:
    • Highway 6 (Trans-Israel Highway): A major north-south toll road, also known as the Cross-Israel Highway.
    • Carmel Tunnels: Toll tunnels in Haifa for quicker city access.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car may pay approximately ILS 15-40 (Israeli Shekel) for a trip on Highway 6, depending on the segment. For the most current rates, visit the Highway 6 operator website: https://www.kvish6.co.il/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Not accepted; Highway 6 uses an electronic system.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Tolls are billed automatically via license plate recognition; register a card online or pay later at designated kiosks.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: Highway 6 uses an electronic system (no physical booths); vehicles with a transponder (e.g., Derech Eretz) are charged automatically. Unregistered vehicles are billed via mail.

Driving in Israel

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80-90 km/h
    • Highways: 110-120 km/h
  • Road conditions are generally good; major highways like Highway 1 (Tel Aviv-Jerusalem) are well-maintained, but rural roads in the Negev Desert or Golan Heights can be narrow or affected by weather (e.g., flash floods in winter).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, valid for up to 1 year. A local license is required for longer stays.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Israel does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected electronically on specific highways.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and heavy traffic in cities like Tel Aviv. Be cautious in the West Bank due to checkpoints and potential unrest.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable across Israel; apps like Waze (developed in Israel) are widely used and highly effective. Keep an updated physical map as a backup for remote areas.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 100 for police, 101 for ambulance, or 102 for fire.

Useful Links

Israel Currency

The official currency of Israel is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200 ILS
  • Coins: 10, 50 agorot; 1, 2, 5, 10 ILS
  • Symbol: ₪ (often written as ILS)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and authorized money changers in major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas for direct ILS withdrawals; most accept international cards.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred for small transactions, especially in markets or rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments; contactless payments are common.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and in rural areas, as digital payments may not be universal in smaller establishments.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the ILS fluctuates against major currencies.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Israel website: https://www.boi.org.il/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Israel

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Israel, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted, but public intoxication can lead to fines or detention, especially near religious sites.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in some outdoor areas (e.g., near hospitals).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect religious customs; dress modestly at holy sites (e.g., cover shoulders and knees at the Western Wall or Al-Aqsa Mosque). Avoid discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, especially in sensitive areas like Jerusalem’s Old City.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, and Israel is relatively progressive (e.g., Tel Aviv hosts a major Pride parade). However, same-sex marriage is not recognized, and public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention in conservative areas.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, checkpoints, and some religious sites (e.g., inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially in ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over ILS 50,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, and items deemed a security threat (e.g., certain electronics at checkpoints).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Israel Ministry of Tourism or the Israel Consumer Council.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Tel Aviv, Eilat) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated at major beaches like Gordon Beach in Tel Aviv.

Key Resources

Israel Travel Safety

Israel is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates in tourist areas and a reputation for hospitality, though security concerns exist due to regional tensions. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Israel.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is possible in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem) or public transport. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare in Israel proper.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Israel is considered safe, with a strong security presence. Female travelers should dress modestly in religious areas (e.g., Mea Shearim in Jerusalem) and avoid isolated areas at night, especially in the West Bank.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and heavy traffic in cities like Tel Aviv.
    • Avoid driving in the West Bank at night due to potential unrest and checkpoints.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe to drink in most areas; bottled water is recommended in the West Bank.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food (e.g., falafel, shawarma) is usually safe if freshly prepared.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Minimal risk; use insect repellent in rural areas (e.g., near the Dead Sea) to guard against West Nile virus or leishmaniasis.
  • Altitude Sickness: Not a major concern; the highest point (Mount Hermon) is at 2,224 meters, but most tourist areas (e.g., Jerusalem at 760m) are below 2,500 meters.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: High-quality facilities like Sheba Medical Center in Tel Aviv and Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem offer excellent care. Rural areas, including parts of the West Bank, may have limited services.
  • Pharmacies: Widely available in cities; carry essential medications for remote areas.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, though local care in Israel is generally reliable.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 100 (police), 101 (ambulance), 102 (fire).
  • Ambulance: 101 | Fire: 102 | Police: 100.
  • Tourist Police (Jerusalem): +972 2 539 1250.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Renting a car is straightforward; avoid driving in ultra-Orthodox areas on Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening) due to road closures. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for trails in areas like the Golan Heights or Negev Desert (e.g., Ein Gedi); flash floods can occur in winter.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Shabbat (Saturday) customs; many businesses close, and public transport is limited. Avoid political discussions, especially in Jerusalem or near borders.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but dust storms can occur in the Negev; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Israel

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