Albanians travel to Israel for religious tourism, family connections, and growing business ties, particularly between Tirana and Tel Aviv. Many visitors combine Israel with broader Mediterranean itineraries, making advance authorization especially useful. Securing the ETA-IL before departure helps travelers avoid delays and plan their trips confidently.
Do Albanian citizens need a visa or an ETA-IL for Israel?
Albanian citizens must obtain an ETA-IL for short-term travel to Israel. This digital authorization replaces a traditional visa for tourism, short business visits, and family trips. It is electronically connected to the traveler’s Albanian passport and presented to border control on arrival.
Unlike a standard embassy-issued visa, the ETA-IL is requested online, eliminating the need for in-person appointments.
How long is the ETA-IL valid?
The ETA-IL is valid for two years from approval or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Albanian citizens may enter Israel multiple times throughout the validity period, provided each visit remains within the permitted stay length.
If the passport is renewed, a new ETA-IL application is required.
What is the stay limit in Israel under the ETA-IL?
With an approved ETA-IL, Albanian travelers may stay in Israel for up to 90 days per visit. This includes tourism, business meetings, family travel, and transit.
Important reminders:
- The ETA-IL is intended for short stays only.
- Stays beyond 90 days require a different type of visa.
- Israeli border officers verify entry conditions, while the ETA-IL itself defines the 90-day limit.
What types of travel are allowed for ETA-IL holders?
The ETA-IL permits Albanian citizens to travel to Israel for:
- Tourism and leisure purposes
- Short business activities
- Visiting relatives or friends
- Transit through Israel
The ETA-IL does not permit:
- Paid work
- Long-term academic study
- Volunteering programs
- Stays exceeding 90 days
- Activities requiring residency or work authorization
How can Albanian citizens apply for the ETA-IL?
The application process is completed fully online. Albanian travelers must:
- Fill in their personal and passport information.
- Specify their travel purpose.
- Carefully review all details before submission.
- Pay the ETA-IL processing fee.
- Await the approval email.
Most travelers begin the process by choosing to complete their ETA-IL submission through the official online system, which securely collects the required information for processing.
How long does ETA-IL processing take?
Processing typically takes 24 to 72 hours, although some cases may require additional time if further checks are needed. Albanian travelers should apply several days before departure and monitor their email for updates.
What documents do Albanians need for the ETA-IL?
Albanian citizens generally need:
- A valid Albanian passport
- An active email address
- A debit or credit card
- Basic travel information, including dates and purpose
Each traveler, including minors with their own passport, must have a separate ETA-IL.
What are the entry rules for Israel?
An approved ETA-IL does not guarantee entry. Upon arrival, Albanian visitors must meet Israel’s general entry requirements. Travelers may be asked to present:
- The Albanian passport used for the ETA-IL
- ETA-IL confirmation
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Basic details about their intended stay
If the information matches the application and visit purpose, Albanian travelers are typically admitted for up to 90 days.
Are there any special considerations for Albanian travelers?
Albanian ETA-IL holders should keep the following points in mind:
- A renewed passport requires a new ETA-IL.
- Dual nationals should apply and travel using the same passport.
- Frequent travelers should track their two-year validity period.
Those reviewing their eligibility may check the updated list of countries included in the ETA-IL program for the most current participation details.