Israel entry requirements for Hong Kong passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 25, 2026·View sources
No visa required
90 days
Max stay
90 days
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 can visit Israel for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days. This policy is unchanged as of 2026. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from entry and you have a return ticket ready.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| ETA-IL applicationETA-IL: Israel's Electronic Travel Authorisation, mandatory for all visa-exempt nationals since August 2024. Apply free at israel-entry.piba.gov.il — usually approved instantly. Electronic Travel Authorisation | Apply for Israel's ETA-IL at israel-entry.piba.gov.il before you fly. The application is free and usually approved instantly — you'll get a confirmation email. Show the approval at check-in and keep a copy on your phone.Apply for ETA-IL | Required |
| Valid passport Must cover your entire stay | Your Hong Kong passport needs to be valid for the full duration of your stay in Israel. Israel does not enforce a 6-month validity rule for visa-exempt visitors — just make sure it doesn't expire while you're there. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Proof of departure | Immigration officers at Ben Gurion Airport routinely ask for a return or onward ticket. Have a printed or digital copy of your outbound flight ready — they check this before stamping you in. | Recommended |
| Proof of accommodation Hotel booking or host invitation | Carry a printed hotel confirmation or a letter from your host with their contact details. Border officers occasionally ask where you're staying, especially if you arrive without a clear itinerary. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Show you can support yourself | Have access to at least 2,000–3,000 ILS (around $550–$800 USD) for a short trip. Officers rarely ask, but if you look underprepared they may request bank statements or cash. | Recommended |
Entry stamp vs. separate card
If you plan to visit countries that restrict entry for people with Israeli stamps (e.g., Iran, Lebanon, Syria), ask the immigration officer for a separate entry card instead of a passport stamp. They usually oblige without issue.
Overstay penalties
Overstaying even by one day can trigger a fine and a re-entry ban. Set a calendar reminder to leave before day 90. No extensions are available.
What happens at the border
1
Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
Most Hong Kong travellers fly into Tel Aviv. After landing, follow signs to 'Passport Control'. There are separate queues for Israeli citizens and foreigners. Join the foreigners queue.
2
Present your passport and answer questions
Hand over your passport. The officer will likely ask: purpose of visit, length of stay, where you're staying, and your return flight. Answer clearly and briefly. They may also ask about previous travel to Arab countries — be honest.
3
Get your entry stamp
If everything is fine, the officer stamps your passport with a 90-day tourist visa. Check the stamp says '90 days' before walking away. If you want to avoid a stamp (e.g., for future travel to certain countries), ask for a separate entry card instead — they usually accommodate this.
4
Collect luggage and exit
After passport control, collect your bags from the carousel, then walk through customs. Green channel if you have nothing to declare. You're in.
Download Israel Entry Checklist
PDF · Hong Kong Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 25, 2026
Overstay calculator
Enter your arrival date and we'll tell you exactly when you need to leave.
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa (single entry)
Max stay90 days, extendable up to 90 more days
Validity3 months from issue
Cost~100 ILS (~$28 USD)
Apply at Israeli embassy abroad; requires proof of funds and itinerary.
Tourist visa (multiple entry)
Max stay90 days per entry, extendable
Validity6 months from issue
Cost~200 ILS (~$56 USD)
Ideal for frequent travellers; must show need for multiple entries.
Work visa (B-1)
Max stayUp to 1 year, renewable
Validity1 year
Cost~500 ILS (~$140 USD)
Requires employer sponsorship and approval from Ministry of Interior.
Student visa (A-2)
Max stayDuration of studies, renewable
Validity1 year
Cost~250 ILS (~$70 USD)
Must be enrolled in an accredited Israeli 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 |
|---|---|
| Overstay fine per dayOverstaying the 90-day limit incurs a fine; maximum cap may apply. | ~500 ILS (~$140 USD) per day |
| Tourist visa (single entry)For those who need a visa or wish to extend stay beyond 90 days. | ~100 ILS (~$28 USD) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)Allows multiple entries within validity period. | ~200 ILS (~$56 USD) |
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 passport holders can transit through Israel without a visa for up to 24 hours, provided they remain airside and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport or staying overnight, a visa may be required.
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 = 2.83 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. The visa-free stay is not extendable. If you want to stay longer, you must leave Israel before day 90 and re-enter after a period outside the country. Overstaying can result in fines or a ban.
Israel does not automatically deny entry for stamps from Arab countries, but you may face additional questioning. Be honest about your travel history. If you're concerned, you can ask for a separate entry card at the border to avoid a stamp in your passport.
The West Bank is generally accessible with your Israeli tourist visa, but check current travel advisories. Gaza is a separate controlled area and requires special permits from both Israeli and Palestinian authorities — not recommended for casual tourism.
Overstaying is taken seriously. You may be fined (around 500–1000 ILS depending on duration), detained, and banned from re-entering Israel for a period. Always leave before your visa expires.
No. The visa-free entry is for tourism only. Any paid work, volunteering, or study requires the appropriate visa obtained in advance from an Israeli embassy or consulate.
No. Hong Kong passport holders use the general foreigner queue. There is no special fast-track lane for HK. Expect standard processing times — 15–45 minutes depending on the queue.
Not officially required, but it's smart to have a credit card or some cash (ILS or USD) available. If asked, you can show a bank statement or card. Most travellers are never asked.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 25, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.