New Rules for Travellers to Israel Effective from 1 July 2024

We would like to inform you that as of July 1, 2024, new rules will come into force for all tourists, business travelers and people visiting Israel. The changes are related to the introduction of a system for obtaining an advance electronic entry permit (ETA-IL), which is issued to citizens of all countries with which Israel has an established visa-free regime - such as Bulgaria.

One of the main requirements for entering Israel becomes the availability of an advance electronic permit from 1 July 2024. In the period from 1 to 31 July 2024, travellers from Bulgaria can apply for and obtain the electronic permit free of charge.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informs Bulgarian citizens that as of 1 August 2024, obtaining an advance electronic permit is mandatory for all persons arriving in Israel and the fee for its issuance is NIS 25 (approximately BGN 12.50). The electronic permit issued has a validity period of up to 2 years or until the expiry date of the traveler's passport. The permitted period of visa-free stay in Israel on the basis of the electronic permit is up to 90 days. For more information on the full travel rules, please visit the MFA website HERE.

The electronic permit for travel to Israel can be requested at the following website: https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il

In the spring, the national carrier resumed its regular flights operating on the direct Sofia-Tel Aviv route and vice versa, following the settling of the situation in the region. Bulgaria Air's team is closely observing the situation in the Middle East region and following the recommendations of the government authorities, and will continue to inform all passengers of changes to travel options to/from Israel after a risk assessment.

For more news, updates and promotions on flights to destinations that are part of the airline's network, follow the website and mobile app, as well as the national carrier's social media accounts.