ETA Israel Expiry Dates Explained: What Travelers Should Know in 2026

Planning a trip to Israel in 2026? If you’ve already applied for or are considering the ETA Israel (ETA‑IL), understanding its expiry rules is critical. Many travelers mistakenly assume it works like a visa—but it doesn’t. Misunderstanding the validity period of your ETA could result in denied boarding or entry delays.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about ETA Israel validity, what affects its expiry, and how to plan confidently for your 2026 travel dates.

What Is the ETA Israel (ETA‑IL)?

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA‑IL) is a digital entry requirement introduced by Israel for nationals of visa-exempt countries. It’s designed to simplify short-term travel by replacing the traditional visa process for eligible visitors entering for tourism, business, or transit.

While the ETA approval itself is straightforward, its validity and expiry rules can catch travelers off guard if not reviewed carefully.

How Long Is ETA Israel Valid?

Your ETA Israel is valid for up to two years from the date of approval or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. This means:

• If your passport expires in 10 months, your ETA expires in 10 months.
  
• If your passport is valid for more than two years, your ETA is valid for the full two-year period.
  

It’s also important to understand that validity refers to how long you can use the ETA to enter Israel—not how long you can stay. Each entry allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit.

Additionally, your ETA allows multiple entries during its validity. This means you can return to Israel several times within the approved period without needing to reapply, as long as your passport and ETA are still valid.

What Affects ETA Validity and Expiry?

Several factors influence the lifespan and usability of your ETA:

• Passport Expiry: Your ETA is tied to your passport. If you renew your passport, the ETA becomes invalid—even if it has time left.
  
• Personal Detail Changes: A change in your name, gender, or nationality invalidates your current ETA, and you’ll need to apply for a new one.
  
• Inactivity: There’s no penalty if you don’t use your ETA after approval, but border agents still assess each entry individually based on current circumstances.
  
• Travel Documentation: You must present the same passport used in the application at the Israeli border. Any discrepancy may lead to denial of entry.
  

What Travelers Should Know for 2026

For those planning to travel in 2026, it’s important to review when you applied and whether your ETA will still be valid:

• Applied in 2024 or 2025? Check your exact approval date. If it’s more than two years before your 2026 travel dates—or your passport expires before your trip—you’ll need to reapply.
  
• Traveling early in 2026? If your ETA is still valid, ensure your passport won’t expire before or during your trip.
  
• Traveling later in 2026? Your ETA may have expired by then unless you applied in 2025 or renewed it already. Don’t risk arriving with an invalid document—always verify beforehand.
  

Make sure to apply with the passport you’ll use at the time of travel and double-check your ETA Israel validity before booking flights or accommodations.

What If My ETA Will Expire Before My Trip?

If your ETA’s expiry date is before your planned departure, you must submit a new application. The system does not allow extensions—only new applications with the updated information.

Here’s what to do:

1. Check the current ETA expiry date (found in your approval email or on the portal).
   
2. Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity beyond your stay in Israel.
   
3. Submit a fresh application using the same official channel.
   
4. Wait for confirmation (usually quick) and keep a digital and printed copy.
   

It’s a smooth process—but only if done ahead of time.

Best Practices for Managing ETA Validity

• ✅ Apply early but not too early—aim for within a year of travel to ensure longer use.
  
• ✅ Use the passport you’ll travel with—don’t renew it after application unless absolutely necessary.
  
• ✅ Track the approval and expiry dates—set calendar reminders if you’re planning future trips.
  
• ✅ Reapply after any changes in personal details or if your passport is updated.
  
• ✅ Always double-check that the ETA is still valid before boarding your flight.
  

Conclusion

Your ETA Israel is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. As you plan your 2026 visit to Israel, take a moment to verify your ETA’s expiry date and ensure your passport is aligned with your travel timeline.

If anything has changed—like your passport, name, or nationality—you’ll need to reapply. Managing these details now prevents future travel disruptions and guarantees a stress-free arrival in Israel.