Israel Visa RequirementsFor United Kingdom passport holders
UK passport holders can enter Israel without a visa for up to 90 days. British nationals are admitted for tourism, business, and transit under a longstanding visa exemption arrangement.
Great news! United Kingdom passport holders can enter Israel without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No advance visa application is required. On arrival at Ben Gurion International Airport or other ports of entry, you will go through security screening and passport control. Officers may conduct an extended interview. Request an entry stamp on a separate piece of paper rather than in your passport if you plan to visit countries that do not accept Israeli stamps.
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
United Kingdom to Israel: What You Need to Know
Israel operates a biometric entry system and border control is notably thorough. British nationals may be questioned about the purpose of their visit, previous travel to Arab or Muslim-majority countries, and personal connections. Entry refusal, while uncommon for UK tourists, can occur. The UK FCDO advises against travel to areas bordering Gaza, the Lebanon border, and the Golan Heights due to active conflict.
Practical Tips
The Israeli new shekel (ILS) is the local currency. Israel is an expensive destination by regional standards. The UK FCDO advises close attention to the security situation given the ongoing conflict; check travel advice immediately before and during your trip. The Negev Desert and Dead Sea require adequate water and sun protection. Public transport is excellent within cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK citizens need a visa for Israel?
No. British passport holders can visit Israel without a visa for up to 90 days. Entry is at the discretion of border control officers, who may conduct detailed security interviews, particularly for travellers with previous visits to certain Arab or Muslim-majority countries.
Can I visit Arab countries if I have an Israel stamp in my passport?
Some countries, notably Lebanon and Syria, may refuse entry to travellers with Israeli passport stamps. To avoid this issue, ask Israeli border officials to stamp a separate sheet of paper rather than stamping your UK passport. This request is routinely accommodated at Ben Gurion Airport.
Is it safe to visit Israel as a UK tourist?
The UK FCDO advises against travel to Gaza, within 500 metres of the Lebanese border, and the Golan Heights. Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and most tourist areas have different advisory levels; check current FCDO guidance as the situation changes frequently given ongoing regional conflict.
What is the currency in Israel?
Israel uses the New Israeli Shekel (ILS or NIS). UK bank cards are widely accepted in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and tourist areas. Israel is among the more expensive destinations in the Middle East. The Shabbat (Friday sunset to Saturday night) can affect business and transport operations.