If you're planning to study in Israel, you will need to either apply for a Student Visa (A/2), a B/2 Visitor Visa, or an ETA-IL depending on the length of your course and your nationality.
Each of these documents allows international students to legally reside in Israel for the duration of their studies. Below is an overview of the requirements and application process for the Israeli Student Visa, an explanation of who is eligible, and how to renew it.
What Is the Israel Student Visa?
The A/2 Student Visa is a temporary residence visa issued to non-Israeli citizens who are enrolled in recognized educational institutions in Israel.
This can include:
- Universities
- Elementary or high schools
- Yeshivot
- Jewish Agency youth institutions
It’s valid for up to 1 year and allows multiple entries and exits during its validity. The visa can be renewed annually as long as the student remains enrolled.
The student visa does not permit you to work in Israel. In order to undertake employment, you’ll need to apply for another type of visa for Israel.
However, A/2 visa holders who qualify for Aliya under the Law of Return may be permitted to work part-time under specific conditions. If you think you may qualify for this visa type, you should contact your local Jewish Agency representative for advice.
Israel Student Visa Eligibility Requirements
All students enrolled in programs lasting a semester or more must obtain a Student Visa (A-2) prior to traveling to Israel.
If you’re planning to enroll in a short-term study course and are a national of a visa-exempt country, then you may be eligible to apply for an Israel ETA.
This electronic travel authorization allows you to study in a short-term course or program in Israel for up to 90 days.
If your nationality is not visa-exempt for Israel and you wish to study for under 90 days, you may be eligible to apply for a B/2 Visitor’s Visa instead of the A/2 Student Visa.
Note that students with Israeli citizenship or parents who are Israeli citizens may have different entry requirements and should consult their local consulate for advice about travel documents.
Documents Required to Apply for an Israel Student Visa
When applying for an Israel Student Visa, you’ll need to prepare the following:
- Completed visa application form in duplicate (available at Israeli embassies/consulates)
- Valid passport with at least 2 years of validity beyond your stay and at least two blank pages
- 2 passport-sized photographs of the applicant, one attached to each copy of the form
- Letter of acceptance from a recognized Israeli educational institution
- Confirmation of payment of tuition fees/proof of scholarship
- Proof of financial means, such as bank statements showing funds sufficient to cover tuition fees and living expenses
- For minors: A notarized declaration signed by both parents granting permission to study in Israel.
In some cases, a copy of your original birth certificate may be requested. Before applying, we advise you to contact your local Israeli embassy or consulate to confirm specific requirements based on your nationality.
If you are not located near an Israeli consulate, reach out to the nearest one by phone. With sufficient advance planning, it’s often possible to obtain a visa through the mail.
Student Visa for Israel Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for an Israeli student visa:
- Obtain admission: Secure acceptance from an accredited institution in Israel and receive an official letter of admission
- Prepare documents: Gather all required documents as listed above
- Submit application: Visit your nearest Israeli consulate or embassy to submit your application in person
- Pay fees: Pay the visa application fee (approximately $ US 40-50, but may vary depending on your location)
- Wait for processing: Processing of an Israel Student Visa typically takes 5–7 business days, but may vary depending on your location.
We recommended you start the application process at least 1–2 months prior to your planned departure date, or as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. This is a good idea in case of processing delays or if any additional documents are requested.
Renewing an Israel Student Visa
Student visas can be renewed within Israel at the Ministry of the Interior (Misrad Hapnim) or abroad at an Israeli consulate.
To renew a student visa, you’ll need to submit the following:
- An official letter from your educational institution confirming your student status
- Completed visa extension forms
- Your passport, containing your current student visa sticker
- 2 passport-sized photographs
- A receipt showing payment of the required fee.
As long as you remain enrolled at an educational institution in Israel, you are eligible to extend or renew your visa. You may apply for a 1-year visa extension before your current visa expires.
