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Aggregating global travel advisories

Travel Advisory for State of Israel

This page provides a comprehensive comparison of official government travel advisories for State of Israel from multiple trusted international sources including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Spain, Ireland, and Japan. Each government assesses travel risks independently based on their own intelligence, diplomatic relationships, and risk assessment criteria. By comparing these different perspectives, travelers can make more informed decisions about their safety and security when visiting State of Israel.

The information below is aggregated from official government sources and analyzed to provide you with a unified view of the current travel situation. Last updated: 2026-09-06

AdvisoryAtlas.com Risk Level

Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Range: Level 3 to Level 4

AdvisoryAtlas.com Safety Index

20
Safety Index Score

Overview

Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza present a volatile security landscape with a high risk of terrorism, civil unrest, and ongoing military activities. Travelers are strongly advised to reconsider non-essential travel due to unpredictable conditions and potential for rapid escalation.

Detailed Advisory Summary

The security situation in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza remains highly unpredictable and volatile, with a significant risk of terrorism, civil unrest, and military actions. Several countries, including Canada, France, the US, the UK, Ireland, Australia, Japan, the Netherlands, Austria, and New Zealand, advise against all but essential travel, with many issuing 'do not travel' advisories for specific border regions and Gaza due to ongoing armed conflict and terrorism.

Key risks include rocket and drone attacks, which can occur without warning and disrupt infrastructure. Terrorist attacks, including bombings, shootings, and vehicle ramming, are a persistent threat, targeting public spaces, transportation hubs, and areas frequented by foreigners. Demonstrations and clashes between protesters and security forces are common, particularly in Jerusalem and the West Bank, and can escalate quickly.

Travelers are urged to maintain a high level of security awareness, stay informed through local media and official channels, and have contingency plans. Familiarizing oneself with the location of bomb shelters and downloading alert applications is recommended. Border areas, particularly with Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, are extremely dangerous and subject to frequent military activity and rocket fire. Entry into Israel requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) for many nationalities, and Israeli authorities may conduct thorough security checks, potentially leading to denial of entry based on perceived political views or associations.

Health risks are generally manageable with standard precautions, though medical care can be expensive. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance. Local laws and customs, particularly those related to religious sites and conservative neighborhoods, must be respected to avoid offense or legal repercussions. Dual nationals may face complex entry/exit requirements and potential limitations on consular assistance.

Risk Level Summary by Government Source

Source Risk Level Updated Official Link
Global Affairs Canada Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-09-01 View Source →
U.S. Department of State Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-06-26 View Source →
Ministère des Affaires Étrangères Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-09-03 View Source →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-07-22 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-09-02 View Source →
Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-04-01 View Source →
Department of Foreign Affairs (Ireland) Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-08-28 View Source →
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-21 View Source →
Auswärtiges Amt Level 3 - Reconsider Travel 2026-07-09 View Source →
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-07-16 View Source →
Département fédéral des affaires étrangères (DFAE) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-05 View Source →
Regjeringen (Norway) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-06-24 View Source →
Nederland Wereldwijd (Netherlands) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-09-06 View Source →
Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-18 View Source →
BMEIA (Austria) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-09-02 View Source →
0404 (Korea) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-07-30 View Source →
Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Finland) Level 4 - Do Not Travel 2026-08-25 View Source →

Safety and Security Analysis

Vaccination Information

Recommended for Most Travelers

  • Routine vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal disease, seasonal flu)

Recommended for Some Travelers

  • Hepatitis A
  • Hepatitis B
  • Typhoid fever
  • Rabies
  • Polio booster (for adults)
  • Measles (ensure up-to-date vaccination)
It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider or international vaccination center well before travel to assess health status and receive personalized recommendations. Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date. For specific risks like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, and Measles, consult a healthcare professional based on travel plans and duration. Polio vaccination status should be up-to-date, and a booster dose is recommended for adults. Travelers may be required to carry proof of polio vaccination. Be aware of potential risks from insect bites and practice preventive measures. Ensure food and water safety precautions are followed.

Visa Information

Visa Types

Type Requirement Stay Limit Cost Conditions Details
Tourist ETA-IL or Visa 90 days 25 NIS (ETA-IL) Passport valid for 90 days post-entry for ETA-IL.
  • Passport Validity: 90 days beyond entry date for ETA-IL; 6 months for visa.
  • ETA-IL: Required for visa-exempt nationals; valid for 2 years or until passport expiry.
  • Application: Submit ETA-IL online at least 72 hours before arrival.
Business ETA-IL or Visa 90 days 25 NIS (ETA-IL) ETA-IL valid for tourism or business; check specific work permits.
  • Passport Validity: 90 days beyond entry date for ETA-IL; 6 months for visa.
  • ETA-IL: Required for visa-exempt nationals; valid for 2 years or until passport expiry.
  • Application: Submit ETA-IL online at least 72 hours before arrival.
Work Visa required Varies Check Embassy Requires proper work permits and specific visa types.
  • Visa Required: Essential for employment.
  • Permits: Obtain specific work permits before travel.
  • Contact Embassy: For detailed application procedures and requirements.

Entry & Legal Compliance

  • Passport Validity Needed: 90 days
  • Blank Pages Required: 1
  • Dual Citizenship Policy: Israeli law requires citizens to enter/exit on an Israeli passport; Palestinian-Canadians may be subject to Israeli travel regulations for Palestinians.
  • Proof Of Onward Travel: May be asked by airlines or immigration officials.
  • Currency Limit Declaration: 50,000 ILS (air) / 12,000 ILS (land)
  • Drone Usage Law: Prohibited to photograph military installations; specific drone regulations may apply.

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 100
  • Medical Assistance: 101
  • Firefighters: 102
  • Embassy of Canada to Israel (Tel Aviv): +972(0)3-636-3300
  • Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah: +972(0)2-297-8430

Common Scams & Tourist Traps

  • Be cautious of aggressive touts in tourist areas, especially in Old Jaffa, who may distract you while pickpockets operate.
  • Be wary of overly friendly strangers who offer unsolicited help or conversation, as this can be a distraction tactic for theft.

Cultural Etiquette in State of Israel

Do

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or conservative neighborhoods, covering shoulders, upper arms, and legs above the knee.
  • Be respectful of local customs, traditions, and religious practices, particularly during Shabbat and Ramadan.
  • Carry identification (e.g., a copy of your passport) at all times, as police may request it.

Don't

  • Do not drive in ultra-Orthodox Jewish areas on Shabbat, as local residents may react negatively.
  • Avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas, regardless of gender or sexuality.
  • Do not photograph military or police personnel or installations without explicit permission.

Advisory Comparison by Government Source

Global Affairs Canada

Updated: 2026-09-01
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Canada advises avoiding non-essential travel to Israel due to volatile security, and all travel to Palestine due to ongoing military activities and dire humanitarian conditions. Specific border areas near Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza are particularly high-risk. Travelers are urged to prepare contingency plans, carry sufficient supplies, and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service. The advisory highlights risks of politically motivated violence, terrorism, and crime, with specific guidance on sheltering in place and monitoring local media.

Entry requirements include a passport valid for at least 90 days beyond entry. Dual citizens, particularly Palestinian-Canadians, may face strict Israeli travel regulations. Health recommendations include ensuring routine vaccinations are up-to-date and consulting a provider for pre-travel vaccines. The advisory details extensive safety measures for demonstrations, terrorism threats, and crime, emphasizing awareness of surroundings and following local authority instructions.

U.S. Department of State

Updated: 2026-06-26
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The US Department of State advises 'Reconsider Travel' for Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest, and 'Do Not Travel' for Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict, and for northern Israel within 4 km of Lebanese and Syrian borders. The West Bank is also subject to 'Reconsider Travel' due to terrorism and civil unrest. The security environment is complex and can change rapidly, with a high threat of terrorist attacks targeting various locations. Travelers are urged to maintain a high degree of situational awareness, avoid demonstrations, follow security instructions, and prepare contingency plans.

Entry requirements include an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) for US citizens entering Israel from January 1, 2025. US government personnel are restricted from certain areas. Consular services in Gaza are unavailable. Specific advice is given for dual US-Israeli citizens regarding passport usage and entry/exit procedures. The advisory details risks from mortar and rocket fire, crime, and demonstrations, recommending immediate shelter during alerts and reporting suspicious activities.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
France strongly advises against all travel to Gaza and border areas with Lebanon and Syria, and against non-essential travel to Israel and the West Bank due to significant security risks, terrorism, and ongoing conflict. Specific areas in the West Bank, including refugee camps and major cities like Jenin and Tulkarem, are particularly dangerous due to ongoing military operations and frequent Israeli checkpoints. Violent settler activity on West Bank roads is also a concern.

Travelers are urged to stay informed via news, avoid gatherings, and register with the 'Fil d'Ariane' application. The advisory highlights the risk of terrorist attacks, including knife, firearm, and vehicle attacks, in Israel, Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Natural risks like earthquakes are also noted. French citizens in the region are advised to exercise extreme vigilance and avoid all manifestations or gatherings. Consular assistance is available but may be limited in high-risk areas.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to Gaza and areas within 500m of its border, as well as specific governorates in the West Bank and border areas in Northern Israel and the Occupied Golan Heights. Travel to the rest of the West Bank is advised against except for essential reasons. Regional tensions remain high, with a risk of further attacks and escalation, potentially causing flight cancellations and airspace closures.

Terrorism is a significant threat, with attacks potentially occurring anywhere, anytime, targeting venues frequented by foreigners. The FCDO advises against joining attempts to break the naval blockade of Gaza. Travelers are urged to stay informed via local media, follow advice from local authorities, and be prepared to take shelter if warned of an imminent attack. Consular support is not available within Gaza, and exit routes are extremely limited.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Australia advises reconsidering travel to Israel overall due to the unpredictable security situation and recommends 'do not travel' to border areas with Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Military strikes and reprisal attacks have occurred across the Middle East, maintaining high regional tensions and the risk of further conflict. Airspace closures and flight cancellations are possible, and border crossings may close without notice.

Terrorism is a threat, with attacks potentially occurring anywhere, anytime, targeting venues frequented by foreigners. Travelers are advised to maintain a high level of security awareness and follow local authorities' advice. Australia's government has a limited ability to provide consular assistance in high-risk locations. The advice also notes that Israeli citizens must enter and leave on an Israeli passport, and Australian passport holders of Palestinian descent are prohibited from entering Israel through Ben Gurion Airport, requiring entry via the Allenby border crossing.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The Spanish advisory issues a complete "Do Not Travel" recommendation due to the regional conflict, specifically noting the partial reopening of airspace with limited Israeli airline operations and numerous cancellations. It uniquely emphasizes the importance of registering with the Consular Registry of the Embassy of Spain in Israel as a transient for non-resident citizens, and recommends following the Embassy's X account (@Emb_Esp_Israel) for updates. The advisory provides specific details on the ETA-IL system implementation from January 1, 2025, mentioning a trial period (July 1 - December 31) where it is free and not mandatory.
A key distinction is the explicit warning about Israeli authorities denying entry to individuals perceived as sympathizers with the Palestinian cause or those intending to visit the West Bank/Gaza for political reasons, extending this to all border crossings. It also highlights the 2017 Israeli law prohibiting entry to foreigners calling for boycotts against Israel or settlements. The advisory describes potential lengthy interrogations and exhaustive searches of personal belongings, including digital devices, at borders.
It also provides specific warnings for citizens of Palestinian origin, stating they are generally prevented from entering via Ben Gurion Airport and must use Allenby Bridge from Jordan or Rafah from Egypt for access to Palestinian territories. The advisory also includes health warnings about recent outbreaks of West Nile fever (104 cases, 8 fatalities) and the fear of Dengue, with specific recommendations for mosquito prevention.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Ireland advises against all but essential travel to Israel due to the volatile security situation and the risk of military strikes and armed conflict. Specific advice includes avoiding border areas with Lebanon, the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights bordering Syria and Lebanon, and all border areas with the Gaza Strip. Irish citizens in Israel are urged to register on the Department’s Citizens Registration platform.

There is a risk of rocket fire, drone infiltration, and ballistic missiles occurring without warning, necessitating familiarization with the nearest protected location and adherence to local guidance. Mobile applications like Home Front Command and Red Alert: Israel are recommended for real-time alerts. Terrorism remains a risk, with visitors advised to stay aware of their surroundings, especially in busy public places. Entry to Israel requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA-IL) for Irish citizens, and Israeli law permits denial of entry to foreign nationals who have publicly called for a boycott of Israel.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Japan has issued a 'Level 4: Evacuate Immediately' advisory for the Gaza Strip and its surrounding border areas, and for the border region with Lebanon. A 'Level 3: Advise Against Travel' advisory is in effect for the rest of Israel, including areas previously at Level 2. This upgrade is attributed to recent Israeli attacks on Iran and potential Iranian retaliation, as well as ongoing military activities along the northern border.

Travel to Israel is strongly discouraged, and citizens currently in Israel are advised to depart via commercial flights if possible, or to exercise extreme caution and take thorough safety measures if remaining. The advisory highlights the ongoing conflict in Gaza despite a ceasefire, and continued military activities along the Israel-Lebanon border. It also emphasizes the importance of staying informed through multiple sources and preparing for potential disruptions to air travel and border crossings.

Auswärtiges Amt

Updated: 2026-07-09
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
New Zealand strongly advises 'Do Not Travel' overall to Israel due to the volatile security situation and ongoing risk of military strikes and armed conflict. 'Do Not Travel' advisories are also in place for border areas with Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, as well as the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Gaza and the West Bank. The New Zealand Government has extremely limited ability to provide consular assistance in Gaza.

Travelers are advised to remain security conscious, be aware of bomb shelter locations, monitor local media, and prepare contingency plans. Transportation, including flights and border crossings, may be disrupted with little notice. There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, with attacks possible at any time. New Zealanders are urged to exercise extra vigilance, especially during holidays and periods of heightened tension, and to avoid large gatherings and demonstrations. Entry into Israel requires an ETA-IL from January 1, 2025, and authorities may deny entry to those who have publicly called for a boycott of Israel.
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Switzerland notes the fragility of ceasefires and provides specific advice for dual nationals who may face deeper security interrogations at the border.

Regjeringen (Norway)

Updated: 2026-06-24
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The Netherlands advises 'do not travel' (color code red) for border areas between Israel and Gaza, Lebanon, and the Golan Heights, citing increased risk of missile, drone, and mortar attacks. The border strip between Israel and Egypt also carries a red code due to smuggling activities. For the rest of Israel, a 'travel only if necessary' (color code orange) advisory is in place, making holiday travel unsafe. The Dutch embassy's ability to assist is significantly limited in red-coded areas and reduced in orange-coded areas.

Terrorist attacks are a risk throughout Israel, requiring vigilance in crowded places and public transport. The advisory stresses the importance of following local authorities' instructions via the Home Front Command website and seeking shelter immediately if air raid sirens sound. Flight schedules and border crossings may be disrupted without notice. Travelers are advised to have a good travel insurance policy that covers potential risks, as medical treatments can be expensive.

Viaggiare Sicuri (Italy)

Updated: 2026-08-18
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Italy advises against tourist travel to Israel due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation, with specific areas, including border regions with Lebanon and Gaza, and parts of the northern Golan Heights, under a 'Level 4: Do Not Travel' advisory. The rest of Israel is under 'Level 3: Advise Against Travel'. The advisory highlights risks from terrorism, military operations, and potential escalations, urging citizens to stay informed and take safety precautions.

Entry requirements include a passport valid for at least 3 months post-entry for ETA-IL, or 6 months for a visa. From January 1, 2025, an ETA-IL will be mandatory for visa-exempt travelers. The advisory warns about potential security checks, lengthy interrogations, and possible denial of entry, especially for those with Palestinian origins or specific political views. Travelers are advised to register their trip on 'Dove Siamo Nel Mondo' and contact the Italian Embassy for assistance. Special attention is drawn to the security situation in Jerusalem and the West Bank, with recommendations to avoid certain areas and follow local authority guidance.

BMEIA (Austria)

Updated: 2026-09-02
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Austria has issued a 'travel warning' (security level 4) for Northern Israel (north of Route 85) and a 'high security risk' (security level 3) for the rest of Israel, citing the ongoing volatile situation, including potential renewed hostilities with Iran and continued military actions along the Lebanese border. Travel to Gaza is not possible, and a travel warning remains in effect for the entire area. Flight operations have resumed but are limited, with potential for cancellations if conflict escalates.

Austrian travelers are strongly advised to register with the Austrian Embassy in Tel Aviv for timely updates. They should follow media reports, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and adhere to local authorities' instructions, including those from the Home Front Command. Photography of sensitive facilities and military sites is prohibited, and travelers are warned against publishing or sharing images of war activities or damage. The advisory also notes the possibility of entry denial based on boycott calls against Israel.

0404 (Korea)

Updated: 2026-07-30
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
Level 4 - Do Not Travel
The Finnish advisory issues a "Vältä kaikkea matkustamista" (Avoid all travel) to Israel, explicitly linking this to US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28, 2026, and subsequent retaliatory missile, drone, and rocket attacks from Iran and Hezbollah. This provides a direct and recent trigger for the highest warning level. It uniquely advises travelers to check for a "turvahuone" (safe room, Hebrew: mamad) when choosing accommodation and to avoid touching any unidentified explosive ordnance or fragments.
The advisory also provides specific guidance on enhanced security checks everywhere in Israel, including shopping centers and train stations, and advises travelers to carry their passport or a copy at all times. It offers practical advice for dealing with security screenings at entry and exit, emphasizing calm and cooperation. Furthermore, it highlights the ETA-IL requirement for Finnish citizens starting January 1, 2025, and notes that Israel treats dual nationals with Palestinian Authority passports as exclusively Palestinian, potentially leading to difficulties.
It uniquely details traffic culture differences (high speeds, aggressive driving, loose adherence to rules) and advises using the Waze navigation system for real-time updates on road closures. It also highlights the complete cessation of public transport and private car use during Yom Kippur, and advises avoiding driving in ultra-Orthodox areas during Shabbat due to potential hostile reactions.

Important: This is an aggregated summary from multiple government sources. Always consult official government travel advisory websites before making travel decisions.

About Travel Advisories for State of Israel

This comprehensive travel advisory page for State of Israel aggregates official government warnings and recommendations from eight major international sources. Each country's foreign affairs department maintains its own travel advisory system based on unique assessment criteria, intelligence gathering, and diplomatic considerations.

The United States Department of State, Global Affairs Canada, UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Australia's Smartraveller, France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs, and Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs each provide independent assessments of travel risks to State of Israel.

By comparing these multiple perspectives, travelers can gain a more complete understanding of the current situation in State of Israel and make better-informed decisions about their travel plans. Remember to always check the official government websites directly before finalizing any travel arrangements.

Last updated: 2026-09-06