Israel (IL)
Start-Up Nation with world-class tech ecosystem, rich ancient history, stunning Mediterranean beaches, and a vibrant expat and immigrant community.
Visa & Immigration
Entry and residence options for Israel.
✈️ Visa-Free Access
Citizens of approximately 90 countries can enter Israel visa-free for up to 90 days as tourists, including all EU member states, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Western nations. They receive a B2 tourist entry stamp on arrival at Ben Gurion Airport. There is no visa stamp in the passport (passport is scanned electronically) — this avoids complications with Arab countries that previously rejected passports with Israeli stamps.
Israel maintains close border security and all arrivals are subject to security screening at Ben Gurion Airport. Questioning can last 15 minutes to several hours depending on background. Nationals of some countries (e.g., several Arab countries) have restricted entry. The Immigration Authority (Misrad HaPnim — Ministry of Interior) handles all visa extensions and status changes within Israel. Having a valid address and itinerary significantly smooths entry procedures.
Tourist Visa (B2)
Citizens of most Western countries, EU, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ and many others — visa-free on arrival
Immediate on arrival for visa-free nationals. Embassy application: 5–15 business days.
- ✓Valid passport (6+ months validity recommended)
- ✓Return/onward ticket
- ✓Proof of sufficient funds
- ✓Accommodation confirmation
- ✓Clean security history — security interview at airport is normal for all visitors
Work Visa (B1)
Non-citizen/non-Oleh foreign nationals with an Israeli employer sponsor
4–12 weeks from employer application
- ✓Signed employment contract with Israeli employer
- ✓Employer approval from Ministry of Economy and Industry (Population and Immigration Authority)
- ✓Proof of professional qualifications (if applicable)
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Medical certificate (some sectors)
- ✓Criminal background check
Student Visa (A2)
Foreign nationals accepted to accredited Israeli educational institution
4–8 weeks
- ✓Acceptance letter from Israeli university, college, or Ulpan
- ✓Proof of financial sufficiency
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Medical insurance
- ✓Criminal background check
Aliyah (Immigration to Israel)
Jewish person, or child/grandchild of a Jewish person, and their spouses
3–12 months depending on complexity of eligibility documentation
- ✓Proof of Jewish identity or Jewish ancestry (at least one Jewish grandparent)
- ✓Clean criminal record
- ✓Israeli medical clearance (basic health check)
- ✓Passport
- ✓Jewish Agency application and interview
- ✓Documents proving eligibility (birth certificates, marriage certificates, Jewish community letters)
Volunteer Visa (B4)
Volunteers with recognised Israeli non-profit organisations (kibbutz, Amuta)
2–4 weeks
- ✓Invitation from recognised Israeli non-profit or kibbutz
- ✓Proof of voluntary (unpaid) nature of work
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Sufficient funds
No dedicated digital nomad visa
Digital NomadIsrael does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa as of 2026. Remote workers from eligible countries typically enter on the tourist visa (B2), which grants 90 days and is extendable at the Ministry of Interior. Those intending to stay longer may apply for a visa extension or for specific residence permits.
Immediate for visa-free nationals at Ben Gurion Airport
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Return or onward ticket
- ✓Proof of funds
- ✓Accommodation confirmation
- ✓Tax-residence advice for stays exceeding 183 days
Visa & Immigration
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