Israel entry requirements for Hong Kong passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Hong Kong passport holders need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter Israel for tourism or business. It's a quick online application, not a traditional visa, and you'll typically get approval within minutes to a few hours. Apply at least 72 hours before your flight to be safe.
Apply for Israel eVisaOfficial portal: Israel Visa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Israel ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)You must obtain this online authorization before flying; it is not a visa but a mandatory entry permit. Required for Hong Kong SAR passport holders | Apply online via the official Israeli Population and Immigration Authority ETA system at least 72 hours before departure. Fee: 25 ILS (~$7 USD). Processing takes minutes to a few hours. The ETA is valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — if it's within 6 months, renew before traveling. At least 6 months beyond your intended stay | Your Hong Kong SAR passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Israel. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesMake sure you have a completely blank page, not just a page with writing on it. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must contain at least 1 blank page for entry and exit stamps. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketBorder officials often ask to see this — have it ready on your phone or printed. Proof of departure from Israel | You may be asked to show a return or onward flight ticket proving you will leave Israel before your permitted stay ends. | Required |
| Proof of fundsNot always asked, but having proof avoids delays at the border. Sufficient means of support | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay (e.g., bank statements, credit cards, cash). The exact amount is not fixed but should cover accommodation and living expenses. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou do not need to fill out any extra arrival form beyond the standard immigration procedures. Not required | No separate arrival declaration form is required for Hong Kong SAR passport holders entering Israel. | Not required |
| Visa (traditional)Do not go to an embassy — just apply for the ETA online. Not required — ETA replaces visa | Hong Kong SAR passport holders do not need to apply for a traditional visa at an embassy or consulate. The ETA is sufficient for tourism and short stays. | Not required |
Apply early, even though it's fast
The ETA usually processes in minutes, but the official guidance says to apply at least 72 hours before departure. Don't leave it to the last minute — if there's a glitch or a manual review, you could miss your flight.
Passport validity is strict
Israeli border control enforces the 6-month passport validity rule without exception. If your passport expires sooner, you'll be denied boarding even if your ETA is approved.
ETA is not extendable
The ETA allows stays of up to 90 days per visit, and it's valid for 2 years. But it cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer, you'll need to leave the country and re-enter, or contact the Population and Immigration Authority for other options.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your ETA online
Go to https://interior.gov.il/en/eta, fill in your passport details, pay the 25 ILS fee, and submit. You'll get a confirmation email. Do this at least 72 hours before departure, though it often processes in minutes.
2
Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
After landing, follow signs to 'Passport Control'. Hong Kong passport holders can use the automated e-gates if available — just scan your passport and follow the prompts. If not, join the regular queue.
3
Present your passport at the booth
Hand over your passport. The officer will scan it and see your ETA approval automatically. They may ask about your trip — answer honestly. You'll get an entry stamp (or a paper slip if using e-gates).
4
Collect your bags and exit
After passing through, collect your luggage and proceed through customs. There's usually nothing to declare unless you're carrying large amounts of cash or restricted items.
Download Israel Entry Checklist
PDF · Hong Kong Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
B/2 Visitor Visa (multiple entry)
Max stayUp to 3 months per entry
ValidityUsually 5 years
Cost₪150 (approx. $45)
For those who need to stay longer than the ETA allows or require multiple entries for business/visits.
Work Visa (B/1)
Max stayUp to 1 year, renewable
ValidityTied to employment contract
Cost₪500 (approx. $150)
Requires employer sponsorship and approval from the Israeli Ministry of Interior.
Student Visa (A/2)
Max stayUp to 1 year, renewable
ValidityTied to academic program
Cost₪300 (approx. $90)
Requires acceptance from an Israeli educational institution.
work visa
B-1 Work Visa
Up to 1 year, renewable
~500 ILS (~$140 USD)
For foreign workers with an Israeli employer. Requires a work permit and employer sponsorship. Allows legal work and residence.
student visa
A-2 Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~250 ILS (~$70 USD)
For full-time students enrolled at an accredited Israeli institution. Allows part-time work with permission.
investor visa
Investor Visa (B-5)
Up to 3 years, renewable
~1,000 ILS (~$280 USD)
For individuals investing a minimum amount in an Israeli business. Requires proof of investment and business plan.
retirement visa
Temporary Resident Visa (B-2)
Up to 1 year, renewable
~500 ILS (~$140 USD)
For retirees with sufficient income and health insurance. Must show financial independence and no intention to work.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Extension of stayApply at the Population and Immigration Authority office in Israel. | ₪100 (approx. $30) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Israel
No transit visa needed
Hong Kong SAR passport holders do not require a visa for airside transit through Israeli airports, provided they do not enter the country.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the airport or stay overnight, you must obtain a visitor visa or ETA.
Transit hubsBen Gurion Airport (TLV) · Ramon Airport (ETM)
Health & vaccines for Israel
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, etc.)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
West Nile VirusLow risk
Mosquito-borne; risk is highest in summer and early fall.
Foodborne illnessModerate risk
Common from street food or undercooked meat; practice good hygiene.
Heat-related illnessModerate risk
High temperatures in summer can cause dehydration and heatstroke.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv District Immigration Office
5 Ha'arba'a Street, Tel Aviv
Sun–Thu 08:30–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits; bring passport, photos, and relevant forms.
Jerusalem
Jerusalem Immigration Office
2 Rehov Hillel, Jerusalem
Sun–Thu 08:30–16:30
Handles visa issues for residents and tourists; expect long queues.
Practical information for HK travellers
Country basics
CapitalJerusalem
LanguageHebrew, Arabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 1 year.
Money
CurrencyIsraeli New Shekel (ILS)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 3 ILS
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h (EST) / +6h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+10h (PST) / +9h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,HType H (Israeli) and C — US plugs do not fit. Bring a universal adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Safe to drink throughout Israel.
Emergency numbers
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Israel — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No, you need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), not a traditional visa. It's a quick online application that costs 25 ILS (~$7 USD) and is usually approved within minutes to a few hours. You must apply before you travel.
The ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Each visit can be up to 90 days. It's not extendable — if you need to stay longer, you'd have to leave and re-enter or check with the Population and Immigration Authority.
Denials are rare but can happen. If denied, you'll need to apply for a visa at an Israeli embassy or consulate instead. The ETA system is separate from the visa process, so you can still apply for a visa through traditional channels.
Yes, Hong Kong passport holders are eligible for the automated e-gates. Just scan your passport and follow the on-screen instructions. If the e-gates aren't working, join the regular queue — it's usually not much slower.
No, it's linked electronically to your passport. But it's a good idea to have a copy on your phone or a printout, just in case the system is down or there's a discrepancy.
No, you must apply online before you travel. There's no facility to apply at the airport. If you arrive without an approved ETA, you'll be refused entry and sent back.
Yes, the ETA is valid for multiple entries within its 2-year validity period. You can leave and re-enter Israel as long as the ETA hasn't expired and your passport is still valid.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.