Israel Eases COVID-19 Pandemic-Related Travel Restrictions
As of October 18, authorities in Israel have eased the country’s COVID-19-related restrictions for international travelers. Part of this is the lifting of the requirement to complete an Israel Entry Form. Read on to find out the latest status for international travelers heading to the country.
Israel eases travel restrictions for international visitors
Authorities in Israel have officially eased the country’s pandemic restrictions for international travelers. From October 18, visitors will no longer be required to complete the Israel Entry Form. However, besides this, most other domestic and international measures are mostly unchanged.
Domestic Measures in Israel
Currently, the Ministry of Health in Israel issues COVID certificates that can be used as a medical, or international, record of COVID-19 vaccination or recovery from the virus. In fact, those with foreign passports can receive a COVID certificate, as long as they meet the necessary criteria. Readers can find out more information here.
Meanwhile, those in Israel are only required to enter quarantine if they are confirmed to have the virus. Alternatively, they can enter isolation after receiving individual guidance from Israel’s healthcare system. More information is available here.
Currently, Israel is using a four-tired “Traffic Light Model” in order to apply the guidance to individual councils based on local infection rates. Click here for more information about the Traffic Light Model.
International Travel Restrictions
International travelers are permitted to visit Israel regardless of their vaccination or recovery status. However, authorities in the country state that individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and have not yet recovered, to delay their flight or cruise to the country until they are well. Meanwhile, foreign nationals living overseas – except for those arriving directly from Ukraine or via a connecting flight – must have health insurance coverage for COVID-19 treatment in the country.
Travelers who are feeling unwell within 10 days of arriving in the country must undergo a PCR test. Generally speaking, individuals are eligible to take a PCR test on the presentation of a flight ticket or cruise ticket or confirmation of having paid to depart Israel via a land border crossing in the last 20 days. Meanwhile, in the country, no charge is applicable for a PCR test.
Any international traveler who is confirmed to have the virus, or is required to be in isolation, will not be able to leave Israel. Moreover, they may be subject to penalties should they travel to the seaport, airport, or a land border crossing.
Readers can find more information on regulations relating to international travel to and from Israel here. It should be borne in mind that authorities could further ease, reimpose or otherwise amend any restrictions for travelers with little to no notice, depending on the level of disease activity in the country.
Follow national health and safety measures
Travelers are urged to follow all official instructions and abide by national safety and health measures in Israel. If necessary, reconfirm any business appointments or travel arrangements. Moreover, if experiencing any symptoms associated with the virus, consider delaying travel, as this could lead to increased delays and scrutiny.
Always check the latest information relating to the COVID-19 pandemic before making plans to visit Israel, to avoid disappointment. Visit this website for the up-to-date situation in the country.