Israel Entry Requirements for Germans

Citizens of Germany planning a trip to Israel currently enjoy visa exemption for most visits. However, the travel requirements are about to change.

From 2025, the ETA IL for Israel will be introduced as a new entry requirement for Germans and other visa-free travelers.

This involves a quick and simple online registration to approve the visa-free visit. When the ETA-IL for Germans becomes available, you’ll be able to get it here with Travel Israel ETA.

Do Germans Need a Visa for Israel?

No, German nationals do not need to get an Israeli visa for visits of up to 90 days.

If you travel with a German passport, you’re exempt from visa requirements for tourism, among other things.

To qualify for visa exemption from 2025, you’ll need the Israel ETA, or ETA-IL.

You need to get an Israel visa for Germans for stays of over 90 days, or to engage in activities such as:

Documents for traveling to Israel from Germany

There are 2 important items that you need to travel to Israel:

There are only a few Israel ETA requirements for Germans — the travel authorization is 100% electronic and is easy to apply for online.

The only real requirement to get the ETA-IL is details from a passport issued by Germany (or another visa waiver nation).

Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after the date you plan to arrive in the State of Israel.

Documents needed for the Israel ETA

You do not need to upload any documents; only enter your information.

You must have a German passport to register for the ETA-IL. You must then use this same passport when traveling to the country.

As a German passport holder, your Israel ETA will let you visit the country as any of the following for up to 90 days:

You can also use the ETA-IL to stay for up to 30 days for cultural and sporting activities.

To get an Israel ETA for German citizens, all you need to do is complete a short online application form.

When the ETA-IL is launched, the form will be available here on Travel Israel ETA.

Required information for Germans includes:

Find out more about the online ETA-IL application form here.

Here are some useful tips for Germans visiting Israel:

1. Plan for a diverse climate

Israel has a range of climates, from the Mediterranean along the coast to desert conditions in the Negev. This is a big change from Germany.

Jerusalem can be cooler, especially in the evenings, while Tel Aviv and Eilat can be quite hot, especially in the summer.

2. Respect religious customs

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like the Western Wall, churches, or mosques. This usually means covering shoulders and knees for both men and women.

Also, be Mindful of the Sabbath (Shabbat). Unlike in Christian culture and in countries like Germany, where Sunday is the traditional day of rest, in Judaism, it is Saturday.

With Israel being a primarily Jewish state, the Sabbath starts at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday.

Many businesses, public transportation, and restaurants close during this time. Plan accordingly by checking schedules and booking transportation in advance if you need to travel during this period.

3. Tipping culture

Tipping is customary in Israel, particularly in restaurants. A 10-15% tip is standard.

The official currency is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, so you shouldn’t have any trouble using your German bank cards.

4. Travel insurance

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially if you plan to engage in adventure sports or visit remote areas.

Medical treatment in Israel can be expensive without insurance.

While staying in Israel, you may need to contact the Germany Embassy for assistance.

If you need information about traveling to Israel, or if you need a work visa, for example, you can contact the Israeli Embassy in Germany.

Here are some useful details about these diplomatic missions:

German Embassy in Israel

German Honorary Consul in Haifa

German Honorary Consul in Eilat

Israeli Embassy in Germany