Canada Visa RequirementsFor Israel passport holders
Israeli citizens can apply for a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online for stays up to 180 days. Israel was added to Canada's eTA program, replacing the previous requirement for a full tourist visa.
Israel passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply for the Canadian eTA online at canada.ca/eTA before travel. The fee is CAD 7 (approximately USD 5). The application typically takes minutes to a few hours but can take several days; apply well before travel. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner. It allows multiple entries. The eTA is required only for air travel; different rules apply for land or sea entry from the United States.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Canadian eTA Application
Apply online at canada.ca/eTA before purchasing flights. The fee is CAD 7. Application typically takes minutes but can take several days; apply early.
Valid Israeli Passport
The same passport used for the eTA application must be presented at Canadian border control. The eTA is electronically linked to your specific passport number. If you renew your passport, you must apply for a new eTA.
Valid Email Address
Required for the eTA application to receive the approval confirmation. The email reference may be requested by airlines during check-in.
Credit or Debit Card
International credit or debit card to pay the CAD 7 eTA application fee online.
Required at Entry
eTA Approval Reference
The eTA approval number or email confirmation. While the eTA is electronically verified by airlines and border services, keep the confirmation accessible during travel.
Return or Onward Travel Ticket
Confirmed return flight to Israel or onward travel ticket from Canada. Canadian border services officers frequently request proof of intent to leave Canada.
Accommodation Details
Hotel booking confirmation, letter of invitation from a Canadian host, or other evidence of accommodation arrangements. Border officers routinely ask where you will be staying.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Canadian border officers may request evidence of financial means to support your stay. Bank statements, credit cards, or a letter from an employer showing income and travel authorization.
Current Travel Situation
Israel to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada and Israel maintain warm bilateral relations, with Canada home to a significant Jewish community concentrated in Toronto and Montreal. Canada previously required Israeli passport holders to apply for a full tourist visa, but Israel was added to Canada's eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) program, significantly simplifying the process for short-stay visitors. The eTA is linked electronically to the traveler's passport and must be obtained before boarding a flight to Canada. The eTA allows stays up to 6 months per visit.
Money & Banking
Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD). Cards are universally accepted. ATMs are widely available. Canada is a moderately to highly priced destination, comparable to the US and Western Europe. Toronto and Vancouver are particularly expensive for accommodation.
Practical Tips
Apply at canada.ca/eTA. Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Quebec City are the most popular destinations for Israeli tourists. Canada has active Jewish communities in Toronto (Thornhill, North York) and Montreal with synagogues, kosher restaurants, and community institutions. Niagara Falls and the Rocky Mountains (Banff, Jasper) are major natural attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canadian eTA and do Israeli passport holders need one?
Yes. Israeli passport holders must obtain a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA replaced the previous requirement for a full tourist visa for Israeli nationals. Apply at canada.ca/eTA before booking flights.
How much does the Canadian eTA cost for Israeli passport holders?
The Canadian eTA costs CAD 7 (approximately USD 5). The application is completed online at canada.ca/eTA and is processed typically within minutes to a few hours, though it can occasionally take several days.
How long is the Canadian eTA valid and how long can Israeli tourists stay in Canada?
The Canadian eTA is valid for 5 years from the date of issue or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple entries. Each stay in Canada can be up to 6 months (180 days), as determined by a Canadian Border Services Agency officer at entry.
Does the Canadian eTA apply to land or sea entry?
The eTA is required only for travel by air to Canada. Different rules apply at land borders (from the United States) and sea entry. Israeli passport holders entering Canada by land from the US may be subject to different requirements; check with Canada Border Services Agency.
Are there direct flights from Tel Aviv to Canada?
Air Canada and El Al have operated direct Tel Aviv to Toronto (YYZ) flights. Montreal (YUL) and Vancouver (YVR) are also accessible via connecting flights. Flight time to Toronto is approximately 12 hours direct.
Is there a large Jewish community in Canada that Israeli visitors can connect with?
Yes. Canada has one of the world's most active Jewish communities relative to population size. Toronto's Jewish community (concentrated in North York, Thornhill, and Vaughan) is one of North America's largest. Montreal's community has deep roots (Plateau Mont-Royal, Cote-Saint-Luc). Vancouver also has an active community. Extensive kosher infrastructure exists in these cities.
What are the top destinations in Canada for Israeli tourists?
Toronto (CN Tower, Niagara Falls day trip, Kensington Market, Jewish community neighborhoods), Montreal (bilingual French-English culture, bagels, Old Port), Vancouver (mountains, Stanley Park, Pacific Rim National Park), Quebec City (fortified old town), Banff and Jasper (Rocky Mountain national parks), and Prince Edward Island.
Is Canada expensive for Israeli tourists?
Moderately yes. Canada is comparable in cost to Western Europe for accommodation and dining. Toronto and Vancouver are particularly expensive cities. The Canadian dollar (CAD) exchange rate against the shekel offers reasonable value. National parks and outdoor activities are a major affordable attraction.