Entry Requirements & Customs

Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond departure. Visitors from visa-exempt countries can stay in Israel for up to 90 days. Those from non-exempt countries must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) before arrival. Travelers heading to Arab countries can request no Israeli stamp on their passport.

Emergency Contacts

Magen David Adom (Emergency Medical Services):

• Tel Aviv: 03-5460111
• Jerusalem: 02-6523133
• Haifa: 04-8512233

Tourist Police: 03-5165382 (Located at Geula and Herbert Samuel Streets, Tel Aviv)

Yom Kippur & Shabbat Observance

• Yom Kippur: The holiest day in the Jewish calendar. Everything shuts down, including airports, businesses, and public transport.
• Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening): Limited services, with most businesses and public transport closed.

Money & Currency

The official currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS).

• Banknotes: NIS 20, 50, 100, and 200.
• Coins: NIS 10, 5, 2, 1, and 50, 10 agorot.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at airports, banks, post offices, hotels, and licensed exchange agencies. ATMs accepting international cards are widely available.

VAT and Taxes

Tourists who do not hold an Israeli passport may be eligible for a VAT refund at participating stores.

• Minimum purchase: ILS 400.
• Items must be for personal use (excluding food, drinks, and tobacco).
• Refunds are processed at the ‘MILGAM’ counter at the airport.

Tipping & Bargaining

• Restaurants: A 12% tip is customary if service is not included.
• Hotels: Tipping bellhops and service staff is common.
• Taxis: Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up is appreciated.
• Markets: Bargaining is common in open-air markets.

Duty-Free Allowances

• Personal items, including clothing, shoes, and cosmetics, in reasonable quantities.
• Alcohol: Up to 1L of hard liquor and 2L of wine (for travelers 17+ years old).
• Tobacco: Up to 250g (for travelers 17+ years old).
• Gifts & other items: Up to $200 in value.
• Food: Up to 3 kg total, with no single type exceeding 1 kg.

Distances in Israel

Israel is a compact country, making travel between cities and attractions quick and convenient. The country spans approximately 470 km (290 miles) from north to south and 135 km (85 miles) at its widest point. Major cities and tourist destinations are well connected by highways and public transportation.

Cultural Sensitivity

Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully in religious areas and be aware of local customs to ensure a positive experience.