As members of a visa-exempt state, citizens of Sweden will need to make sure that they have a valid ETA before arriving in Israel. The ETA-IL is a new document introduced by Israel to monitor the influx of tourists in and out of the country, improving security while keeping travel requirements simple and convenient for tourists. Similar schemes have already been introduced across the world, including by Sweden itself as part of the European Union (the ETIAS).

Unlike with visas, the application process for the Israeli ETA is extremely simple and quick. The application is done via an online form, and takes only 10-15 minutes to complete. It is also more affordable than a visa.

After submitting, you will typically have to wait only a week or so before being approved. Your document will be sent to you via email, and is entirely electronic, meaning that you do not need to print it out (although you may do so if you wish).

Do Swedish citizens need an ETA-IL to enter Israel?

Yes, Swedish nationals must have an approved Israeli ETA ready and saved to their phone by the time they depart for Israel. It is a mandatory travel requirement, and is as essential to your approval at the border as a regular visa would be.

However, it is important to note that the ETA-IL is still legally and practically distinct from a visa.

How should Swedish passport holders apply for the Israel ETA?

The Israeli ETA is applied for through an online form. Our form is especially designed to simplify the process and minimize the chance of application denial.

You will be asked to answer questions about your personal details and about your trip. Some questions you may be asked include:

  • Your name and date of birth
  • Your passport information, including passport and expiry
  • Other citizenships you may have
  • Your proposed trip dates
  • Where you intend on staying

After you have recorded your answers, and have double-checked them for accuracy (remember that simple errors constitute a large proportion of denied applications), you will be asked to pay a small processing fee. You will need a valid debit or credit card to do this – it does not have to be Israeli.

Once your application has been submitted, it typically takes about a week to approve. However, you should always finish your application a couple of weeks at least in advance. Allow plenty of time, especially around high-traffic times such as around the summer or during the high holidays (September-October).

The ETA for Israel: Expiry and validity information for Swedish citizens

The ETA-ILl expires after 2 years. However, if the passport you applied for your ETA-IL expires or is replaced for any reason, you will need to submit a new application. This is because Israeli ETAs are tied to individual passports, and will become invalid once that passport does.

The ETA-IL is valid only for short term trips of up to 90 days, in which you should not work or engage in full-time study. You are welcome to spend your time in Israel in any other way you wish, such as sightseeing, on pilgrimages, taking part in business fairs or conferences, visiting family or volunteering.

Conclusion

While new travel requirements always take getting used to, the ETA-IL is designed to be as simple and quick as possible to obtain while still maintaining and improving border security. Swedish citizens need to make sure they are familiar with the new protocol and plan ahead to meet all requirements before departure.