Visa-Free Travel for Israeli Citizens

Last week, the United States Department of Homeland Security announced visa-free travel for Israeli citizens and nationals to the U.S. through the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.

This update comes after Israel was officially included in the Visa Waiver Program on September 26, 2023.

Now, citizens and nationals of Israel can seek permission to travel to the United States without the necessity of a visa. They can do this using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), an automated system managed by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

This system aims to screen potential travelers from countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program to ensure there are no security or law enforcement concerns before granting them the privilege of visa-free travel to the United States. Applications for ESTA can be conveniently submitted online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/.

Typically, a decision on the application is reached within 72 hours. Once an application is approved, the ESTA registration remains valid for a period of 2 years, with the option for indefinite renewals.

Moreover, the Visa Waiver Program is a substitute for the B-1/B-2 visa, and it restricts entry to individuals visiting the U.S. for business or leisure purposes. Under this program, the travel duration is capped at 90 days, and it does not grant permission to work.

Individuals with travel plans exceeding 90 days, necessitating work authorization, or those not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program must still apply for a visa stamp at a U.S. consular office overseas.