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Israel Visa for Germany Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

German citizens remain visa-exempt for short tourist and business stays in Israel, but must obtain an Israel ETA online via the Population and Immigration Authority portal before departure; the ETA is low-cost, usually approved within 72 hours, and valid for up to two years.

Guide last updated October 13, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned departure from Israel
  • A completed online ETA application with passport details and travel information
  • A valid email address to receive the ETA approval
  • Return or onward ticket
  • No fixed minimum funds requirement, but proof of sufficient funds and accommodation can be requested at the border
  • No biometrics collected for the ETA itself; standard passport control procedures apply on arrival at Ben Gurion Airport
  • Travel health insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended

Visa types

  • ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for tourism, business or family visits: multiple entry, valid up to 2 years or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner, with each stay up to 90 days
  • B/2 Tourist Visa (traditional stamp): rarely needed by Germans now that the ETA covers most short visits, but available via the embassy for longer or special-purpose visits
  • Work, student and immigrant visas: require a separate application through the Israeli Ministry of Interior and are not covered by the ETA

How to apply online

  • Apply at the official Israeli government ETA portal (gov.il) at least 72 hours, and ideally several days, before departure
  • Steps: enter passport and personal details, answer background questions, submit payment, and receive confirmation by email
  • The fee is a small processing charge, payable online by credit card
  • Approval typically arrives within 72 hours, sometimes within minutes; it is linked electronically to your passport, and while a printout is not legally required, carrying a copy is recommended
  • Present your passport on arrival; the ETA is checked electronically against airline manifests and at passport control

Fees & processing time

  • ETA fee: a small processing fee charged online (well under USD 25)
  • Standard processing: usually under 72 hours, often much faster
  • No separate service agency fee if applying directly on the official portal
  • No extension fee applies to the ETA itself; a new 90-day stay period begins with each new entry within its validity
  • Total typical cost: well under USD 25

Tips for Germany travelers

  • Apply for the ETA as soon as travel dates are confirmed - airlines may deny boarding without a valid ETA on file
  • Common rejection reason: passport details entered incorrectly, or passport validity under 6 months
  • Border officers may ask about the purpose of travel, especially for first-time visitors or those with travel history to certain other countries
  • Keep a digital or printed copy of the ETA confirmation email for check-in
  • For stays beyond 90 days or for work purposes, consult the Israeli embassy in Berlin before travel rather than relying on the ETA

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.