Modern biometric passports are slowly replacing older passports. Many electronic immigration facilities around the world are designed to work with these documents.
Biometric passports, also known as electronic passports, are fitted with a chip containing digital data. They can be scanned at e-Gates to clear passport control.
Various eVisa and travel authorization systems around the world require the traveler to have a biometric passport to use them.
Here’s how the new ETA for Israel will be affected by electronic passports.
Can I Apply for an ETA for Israel With a Non-Biometric Passport?
Yes, you can apply for the ETA-IL even if your passport does not have a biometric chip.
According to guideline issued by Israeli Consulates, you should complete an ETA application for Israel if you’re a national of an eligible country. This is the case regardless of your passport, age, and other factors.
Only accredited diplomats with diplomatic passports are exempt from needing the ETA-IL to enter the country.
Can I get an Israeli visa with a non-biometric passport?
Yes, as long as you have a valid passport that meets Israel’s entry requirements, you can apply for a visa.
You should not need a biometric passport to obtain any of the visa types for Israel.
Remember, to get a visa for Israel, you’ll need to inquire at an Israeli Embassy or Consulate.
If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you can save time and hassle by registering online for the ETA-IL to visit Israel without needing a visa.
Do I Need a Biometric Passport to Travel to Israel?
No, having a biometric passport is not one of the requirements to travel to Israel. You can board a flight to Israel and pass through border control on arrival with any type of passport.
If you have a non-biometric passport, you will not be able to use facilities such as electronic passport gates.
Instead, you will have to show your passport and documentation to a border control officer.
In the modern age of international travel, biometric passports are generally advised to make your journey smoother, and Israel is no exception.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Biometric Passport to Travel to Israel?
Traveling to Israel with a biometric passport can be useful if you’re going to pass through automated passport gates.
Most international airports require outbound travelers to go through passport control. Many now have electronic gates to speed up the process.
Israel has also started using biometric entry gates for passengers arriving in the country. There are now automated gates at Tel Aviv Ben-Gurion Airport (TLV) — one of the main ports of arrival for foreign visitors.
If you have a biometric passport, it will make the process of passing through passport control quicker, easier, and smoother.
Do All Border Control Points in Israel Have Biometric Passport Gates?
No, many ports of entry and land border crossings into Israel still do not have any biometric technology at immigration control.
If you are not landing at Ben-Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, you might not have to use the biometric capabilities of your passport.
However, since Ben-Gurion is the country’s busiest airport and primary point of entry for most international visitors, the chances are that this is where you’ll land.
