The ETA-IL is an essential travel document that citizens from all visa-exempt countries must obtain before their trip to Israel.

The ETA-IL is a new scheme, meaning that frequent flyers from Australia may be unaware of this necessity. However, as Australia is on the list of visa-exempt countries, Australian travelers to Israel will need to make sure that they are up to date on this travel requirement, and that they have a valid ETA ready to go before they depart for Israel.

Applying for an ETA is simple and straightforward. The application is done online in 15 minutes, and is typically completed within just two weeks.

Once you receive your ETA, you need to make sure it is downloaded and accessible from your phone. You will be required to present it at the airport to prove you have the right to enter the country.

Do Australian nationals need a visa to travel to Israel?

For short term stays, Australian citizens do not require a traditional visa. Australia has long been on Israel’s visa-exempt list, and it is expected to remain so.

However, under Israel’s new visa waiver scheme, Australian citizens will be required to fill out a short online application to deceive an ETA, or electronic travel authorization. This online document is comparable to a number of similar schemes used across the world, including Australia’s own eVisitor program.

Visa waivers keep visa-free entry accessible and affordable while improving border security.

Please note that the ETA-IL is valid for stays of up to 3 months, and does not grant you the right to work in Israel. Visas are required for employment, study, and other long-term stays.

What is the difference between an Israeli ETA and a regular visa?

All forms of electronic travel documents, whether the Israeli ETA or the American ESTA, are comparable to visas in that they are required travel documents. However, an ETA is preferable to a visa for a number of reasons:

  • The application for the ETA-IL is done entirely online. It is also received online, by email.
  • Applying for the ETA-IL is quicker than applying for a visa. The application process can take as little as 15 minutes, and application turnover is typically two weeks or less.
  • The ETA-IL application does not require you to go to an embassy or provide excessive documentation
  • The approval rate for the ETA is high

Australians’ eligibility for the ETA-IL allows them to enjoy faster, more affordable and more spontaneous travel.

How do Australian passport holders apply for the ETA-IL?

The application is done entirely online through an application form. You’ll be asked to fill in your personal details, such as name and passport number, as well as some information about your trip, such as how long you intend to stay.

Our form is designed to maximize comfort and ease of use, so do not worry if you are not experienced in Israeli bureaucracy.

To apply, you will need:

  • A valid Australian passport. Make sure it will be valid for the duration of your planned trip.
  • A debit or credit card to pay the nominal processing fee
  • An email address. Make sure you use an account you have access to, as the email you register with is the one you’ll have your ETA-IL sent to

After submitting your application, you can expect to hear back within around two weeks.

Once you’ve received your ETA-IL, you are ready to depart.

ETA-IL Validity information for Australian passport holder

An ETA-IL is valid for two years from its initial date. However, if your passport expires before then, you will need to apply for a new one.

If possible, we recommend applying for your ETA-IL with a passport that is at least two years in date to maximize the length of time your ETA-IL is usable.

Summary of travel requirements for Australian citizens

As of 2024, Australian nationals need to ensure that they have a valid ETA-IL in addition to their passport before travel. This new requirement is a part of Israel’s visa waiver program, which will affect all visa-exempt countries. To ensure a smooth and pleasant arrival, make sure you are up-to-date with all travel requirements, and organize your documentation early.