Cyprus and Israel maintain strong regional ties, with frequent flights connecting Larnaca, Paphos, and Tel Aviv. Cypriots often visit Israel for religious sites, coastal getaways, medical tourism, and expanding business links across the Mediterranean. Because many trips are booked quickly and kept short, a predictable entry process is especially important for travelers from Cyprus.
Do Cypriot citizens need a visa to travel to Israel?
Israel does not require Cypriot citizens to obtain a standard visa, yet an ETA-IL is still required as pre-travel authorization. It applies to leisure trips, short business visits, family arrivals and transit that involves entering Israeli territory. After approval, the authorization is stored electronically and matched to the traveler’s Cypriot passport during airline screening and Israeli border checks.
How long can Cypriot passport holders use their online authorization?
For Cypriot citizens, the authorization remains valid for 2 years, provided they continue traveling with the same passport. During this period, multiple short visits are allowed without submitting a new application. Border control decides on entry at arrival, but once entry is granted, the permitted stay is always up to 90 days.
What is the process for Cypriots applying online?
The application is completed through a short digital form requesting personal information, passport details, and contact data. After paying the required fee, applicants receive their approval by email. The process is quick and straightforward, allowing travelers to submit their application online whenever they begin planning their trip.
Which documents must Cypriot citizens prepare?
Cypriot citizens need only a few items to apply:
- a valid Cypriot passport
- a payment method
- a working email address
The passport must remain valid throughout the intended stay. Additional documents or in-person appointments are typically not required.
What kinds of visits does this authorization allow?
The online authorization can be used for:
- tourism and short leisure stays
- business travel, including meetings and conferences
- family visits
- religious or medical-related travel
- transit, when entering Israel
It does not cover employment, long-term residence, or extended academic programs.
How quickly is the application usually processed?
Most Cypriot applicants receive their ETA-IL result within 24 to 72 hours, as the system handles requests fairly efficiently. Some applications may take longer when additional verification is needed, and processing times can also slow during holiday periods or peak travel seasons.
To avoid unnecessary delays, Cypriot travelers are encouraged to apply ahead of time and check both their inbox and spam folder for any system updates or follow-up notices.
What should Cypriot travelers know about entering Israel?
Travelers must arrive with the same passport used in their application. The authorization allows boarding, but border control decides on final entry. Once entry is approved, the stay is always up to 90 days, as the program does not grant customized durations.
Is Cyprus part of the ETA-IL program?
Cyprus is included among the nationalities permitted to use the ETA-IL system, as shown in the list of approved ETA-IL nationalities. This allows Cypriot citizens to rely on the digital authorization for short-term visits rather than applying for a traditional visa. As a result, travelers from Cyprus can complete the entire process online and receive their approval electronically before departure.