Passport and Visa Information
Before traveling internationally, please make sure your passport is valid for your entire trip and meets the validity requirements of every country on your itinerary. Some destinations require passports to remain valid for a specific period beyond your travel dates. U.S. travelers can find official information about passport applications, renewals, processing times, fees, and other passport services through the U.S. Department of State. For answers to common passport questions, please visit the Department of State's Passport Frequently Asked Questions page.
U.S. Department of State - Passport Information
U.S. Department of State - Passport FAQs
Israel - ETA-IL and Visa Requirements
As of January 1, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries must obtain an approved ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) before traveling to Israel. ETA-IL is a travel authorization for eligible visa-exempt travelers; it is not a replacement for a visa when a visa is required. Travelers who are not eligible for ETA-IL must follow the applicable Israeli visa requirements.
According to Israel's Population and Immigration Authority, an approved ETA-IL allows eligible travelers to visit Israel for up to 90 days per visit. The authorization is generally valid for up to two years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first. If you obtain a new passport or certain personal details change, a new authorization may be required. Israeli authorities advise travelers to use the official government website for eligibility information and applications.
Official Israel Entry Website - Check Eligibility and Apply for ETA-IL
United Kingdom - Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
The United Kingdom requires many travelers who do not need a visa to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the UK. Whether you need an ETA or a visa depends on factors including your nationality, immigration status, and reason for travel. Each traveler who requires an ETA must have their own authorization, including children and infants.
Important for travelers connecting through the United Kingdom: A layover in the UK does not automatically mean that every traveler needs an ETA. Under current UK rules, ETA-eligible travelers transiting landside - meaning they pass through UK border control before continuing their journey - need an ETA. Travelers transiting airside without passing through UK border control do not currently need an ETA. Transit requirements can depend on your nationality and itinerary, so if you are unsure whether you will pass through border control, confirm with your airline and check the official UK government guidance before travel.
Official UK Government - Check and Apply for an ETA
Official UK Government - Layovers and Transit Guidance
Europe - ETIAS Travel Authorization
The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for eligible visa-exempt travelers visiting participating European countries for short stays. ETIAS is a travel authorization and is not a visa.
ETIAS is not yet operational, and applications are not currently being accepted. The European Union states that ETIAS is scheduled to begin operations in the last quarter of 2026, with the specific start date to be announced before launch. Once operational, eligible visa-exempt travelers will need an ETIAS travel authorization for travel to the participating European countries. The authorization is expected to be linked electronically to the traveler's passport and generally valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Travelers should use only the official European Union ETIAS website for current information. At this time, travelers should not submit or pay for an ETIAS application through websites claiming that ETIAS applications are already open.
Official European Union - ETIAS Information
Important Travel Document Reminder
Visa and electronic travel authorization requirements vary according to nationality, passport, destination, transit route, length of stay, purpose of travel, and individual circumstances. An ETA, ETA-IL, or ETIAS authorization does not replace a visa when a visa is required. Travelers should also check the entry and transit requirements for every country included in their itinerary, including countries where they have connecting flights.
Holy Land Tours & Travel provides this information as a general resource for travelers. Entry, visa, passport, and transit requirements are established by government authorities and may change without notice. Each traveler is responsible for verifying the requirements that apply to their individual circumstances and for obtaining all required travel documents and authorizations before departure. Always consult the appropriate official government authority for the most current information.