United States Visa RequirementsFor Israel passport holders
Israeli passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Israel passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
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
Current Travel Situation
Israel to United States: What You Need to Know
Israel joined the US Visa Waiver Program in September 2023, a historic development that capped decades of effort by Israeli diplomats and marked a high point in one of the world's closest bilateral relationships. The US and Israel share deep security, intelligence, and economic ties, and a large Israeli-American community of over 500,000 people lives in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami. Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) is well connected to the US. Note that travelers who have visited certain Middle Eastern countries may face additional questioning at US ports of entry, regardless of their citizenship. If you hold dual Israeli and non-VWP nationality, use your Israeli passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
El Al Airlines flies nonstop from Tel Aviv Ben Gurion (TLV) to New York (JFK/EWR), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), and San Francisco (SFO). United, American, and Delta also serve TLV directly from several US gateways.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD), which is also widely understood in Israel. Cards are universally accepted in the US. Tipping is expected in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxis and hotel housekeeping. In Israel, tipping norms are similar, so the adjustment is moderate. Keep some USD cash for markets, tips, and situations where cards are not accepted.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Be aware that US CBP may ask detailed questions about your itinerary, business, and contacts, particularly for travelers with complex travel histories. The 90-day limit is firm. Carry proof of return travel and accommodation. Israel-US flights are very frequent, and both El Al and US carriers offer direct service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Israeli citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Israel joined the US Visa Waiver Program in September 2023. Israeli passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA authorization before travel.
How do Israeli citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Fill out the online form, pay $21, and receive your authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
What airlines fly nonstop from Israel to the United States?
El Al flies nonstop from Tel Aviv (TLV) to New York (JFK/EWR), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), and San Francisco (SFO). United, American, and Delta also fly TLV nonstop.
How long can Israeli citizens stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. Extensions are not available under VWP status.
Can Israeli citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final entry decision at the port of entry.
What happens if an Israeli citizen overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious violation. Consequences include removal, permanent VWP ineligibility, and serious difficulties obtaining future US visas.
Will traveling with an Israeli passport cause issues at US customs?
US CBP officers process all travelers equally under VWP. Travelers with complex travel histories may receive additional questions. Answer honestly and have your itinerary ready.