Regular flights between Budapest and Tel Aviv create steady movement for leisure travel, religious visits, and business trips. Since most stays from Hungary are short, the digital authorization fits naturally with typical travel plans and helps avoid unnecessary delays on arrival.
What visa do Hungarian travelers need for Israel?
For short-term travel, Hungarian citizens do not need a standard visa to enter Israel. They must instead apply for the ETA-IL, a digital authorization that acts as Israel’s pre-arrival screening system. This approval is required for tourist trips, short business meetings, visits to relatives, and transit situations where travelers enter Israel. Although the ETA-IL functions similarly to advance travel clearance, it is not considered a traditional visa.
Validity and stay rules for Hungarian passport holders
The authorization remains valid for 2 years, provided the same passport is used for each trip. It supports multiple entries, and once border officers approve admission, Hungarian visitors may stay in Israel for up to 90 days per visit. If the passport is renewed or replaced, a new application must be submitted.
How can Hungarian applicants complete the online process?
The entire procedure is carried out online, and applicants only need a few basics to get started: a valid passport, an active email address, a payment method, and simple trip details such as contact information and a planned place of stay.
Once everything is ready, the steps are straightforward:
- Start by filling in the electronic form with accurate passport and personal details.
- Provide contact information, including an email address for updates and the final approval notice.
- Pay the processing fee using a debit or credit card.
- Submit the form and wait for the confirmation email, which usually arrives within a few days.
Hungarian travelers can complete the application whenever it fits their schedule by using the option to open the online application form.
Which travel purposes are permitted for Hungarian visitors?
The authorization may be used for:
- tourism and leisure trips
- short business visits
- family travel
- cultural, religious, or medical visits
- transit that involves entering Israeli border control
It cannot be used for employment, long-term stays, or extended academic programs.
How long does ETA-IL approval take?
Most applications are processed within 24 to 72 hours, making the system convenient for short-trip planning. However, processing may occasionally take longer when additional verification is needed, such as when passport information requires closer review or during periods of high application volume. Because timing can vary, it is best to submit the form well before the intended travel date to ensure there is enough time to receive the approval email without any last-minute concerns.
Is Hungary part of the ETA-IL program?
Hungary is included among the nationalities eligible to use Israel’s online authorization system. Travelers can view all participating countries in the ETA-IL eligibility list, confirming that Hungarian visitors may rely on this digital option instead of applying for a regular visa for short stays.