When traveling to Israel, there are several ports of entry that you can use, including airports, land crossings, and seaports. Below is an overview of the main ports of entry into Israel and what you need to know about them.
Air Entry: Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)
The primary entry point for most international travelers flying into Israel is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located near Tel Aviv. It is Israel's largest and busiest airport, handling the majority of international flights.
Other airports with international charter flights include Eilat in the south and Haifa in the north, with services operating from various European cities and the US.
Land Entry: Border Crossings from Egypt and Jordan
Israel shares land borders with both Egypt and Jordan, offering travelers several options for crossing into the country. Below are the main border crossings:
Israel-Egypt border:
The Taba Border Crossing connects the city of Eilat in Israel with Taba in Egypt.
This crossing is often used by travelers coming from or heading to the Sinai Peninsula, making it a popular entry point for those arriving via land from Egypt.
Israel-Jordan Border
There are 3 key border crossings between Israel and Jordan:
- Yitzhak Rabin terminal/Wadi Araba crossing: Located near the southern city of Eilat, this crossing is frequently used by tourists traveling to and from Jordan's Aqaba region.
- Jordan river crossing/Sheikh Hussein Bridge: Situated in the north, near the city of Beit She'an, this border is one of the main routes for travelers coming from Jordan to Israel.
- Allenby Bridge/King Hussein Bridge: This crossing near the West Bank, is primarily used by travelers from the Palestinian territories and Jordan. Israeli citizens are prohibited from using this crossing.
Sea Entry: Israel’s Seaports
There several ports for travelers arriving to Israel by sea. If you are taking a cruise or coming by ferry, these seaports are important entry points:
Haifa port
Located in the northern part of Israel, Haifa Port is the largest and busiest port in the country.
It’s a hub for both commercial cargo and passenger ships, including cruise liners arriving from various parts of the Mediterranean.
Ashdod port
Ashdod Port in the southern part of the country serves those arriving by cruise ships from the Mediterranean.
It is a major commercial port that also caters to passenger vessels.
Eilat port
Eilat Port is Israel’s central point for sea travels from the south, connecting Israel with ports in Egypt, Jordan, and other Red Sea destinations.
New ETA Requirement: What You Need to Know
Starting in May 2024, travelers from visa-exempt countries will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Israel.
This requirement applies regardless of whether they arrive by air, land, or sea. The new rule is part of Israel’s effort to improve border security and simplify entry procedures.
To obtain the ETA IL, travelers must submit an online application. Once approved, the ETA will:
- Be valid for multiple entries over two years
- Allow for stays of up to 90 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes
Apply for your ETA Authorization now!
When entering Israel, travelers should be prepared to:
- Present a valid passport with an 'expiry date' at least 6 months after the date you arrive
- Display their approved ETA (which can be shown digitally or as a printed document)
- Show additional documents if requested by border control
Key Points to Remember
Israel has various entry points by air, land, and sea. Ben Gurion Airport is the main air hub, but there are also several land crossings and seaports.
From May 2024, travelers must get ETA Authorization to enter the country.
Other Israel Entry Ports Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by travelers visiting Israel:
What is the main airport for entering Israel?
The primary airport for international travelers arriving in Israel is Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV), located near Tel Aviv. The journey from the airport to Tel Aviv takes around 20 to 30 minutes by car or taxi, or 45 minutes if you use public transportation.
Can I enter Israel by land?
Yes, Israel shares land borders with Egypt and Jordan, providing several crossings such as the Taba Border Crossing from Egypt and multiple crossings from Jordan, including the Yitzhak Rabin Terminal and Allenby Bridge.
Are there seaports in Israel for travelers?
Yes, Israel has three main seaports for travelers: Haifa Port, Ashdod Port, and Eilat Port. These ports accommodate cruise ships and ferries arriving from various destinations.
Do I need an ETA to enter Israel by land or sea?
Yes, the ETA is required for travelers arriving by air, land, or sea, as of May 2024.
