Belgium is a key departure point for travelers heading to Israel for holidays, professional meetings, family connections, and short stopovers. With both direct and connecting flight options available from Belgian airports, more Belgian citizens are planning trips to Israel each year. This makes it important to understand the current ETA-IL requirements and entry process before departing.

Is a visa required for Belgian travelers visiting Israel?

Belgian citizens do not need a traditional visa for a short trip to Israel, but they do need an approved ETA-IL, which acts as Israel’s required pre-travel authorization. Because Belgium participates in Israel’s eligibility program, this digital approval replaces the standard consular visa process for tourism, short business visits, family travel, and transit entries that involve passing through Israeli border control.

The ETA-IL is not a physical visa document. It is an electronic authorization linked to the traveler’s Belgian passport and completed online. Once approved, it is recognized automatically during airline check-in and again on arrival in Israel, ensuring Belgian visitors meet the entry conditions before they begin their trip.

What is the allowed length of stay in Israel with an ETA-IL?

With a valid ETA-IL, Belgian passport holders are allowed to stay in Israel for up to 90 days per visit. The ETA-IL is intended strictly for short-term stays. Remaining in Israel beyond the permitted period without authorization may lead to penalties or problems with future entry.

How can Belgian citizens apply for the ETA-IL?

Belgian travelers can apply fully online by completing the ETA-IL application form with their personal information and passport details and submitting the required payment. The process is designed to be simple and fast and can usually be completed in just a few minutes from any device.

Once approved, the ETA-IL is sent directly by email. There is no need to visit an embassy, submit physical documents, or attend an in-person interview. Travelers only need to make sure that the information provided matches their Belgian passport exactly.

What documents do Belgian travelers need for the ETA-IL?

To apply for the ETA-IL, Belgian citizens must have:

  • A valid Belgian passport
  • An email address for receiving the approval
  • A valid payment method

Children traveling from Belgium must obtain their own ETA-IL if they have an individual Belgian passport. In cases where a child is registered under a parent’s passport, where applicable, the parent must follow the specific guidance provided in the application instructions.

How long does the ETA-IL application process take?

Most applications from Belgium are processed within 24 to 72 hours. In certain cases, processing may take longer if additional checks are required. It is best to apply several days before your planned departure.

What are the entry rules when visiting Israel?

An approved ETA-IL allows Belgian citizens to travel to Israel, but final entry approval is decided by Israeli border authorities upon arrival. Travelers must present the same Belgian passport used in the application and follow all standard immigration and security procedures.

Border officials may ask questions about the purpose and details of the trip. An approved ETA-IL does not automatically guarantee entry.

Are there any special notes for Belgian passport holders?

Belgian passport holders fall under Israel’s visa-exemption policy for short stays, which is why the ETA-IL is used instead of a traditional visa for these visits.

Belgian travelers should make sure that:

  • The passport used for the application is the same one used to travel
  • The ETA-IL is still valid on the date of entry
  • The stay does not exceed the permitted period

Can Belgian travelers extend their stay in Israel?

An ETA-IL allows Belgian citizens to enter Israel for a period of up to 90 days. If a traveler from Belgium wishes to stay longer, they must submit a request for an extension of their stay in accordance with official Israeli procedures after arriving in Israel.

Approval of an extension is not automatic and depends on individual circumstances.