Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA)

Israel's immigration authority, whose ETA-IL electronic travel authorization has become a mandatory step for most visitors before they even board a flight.

About PIBA

Formed in 2008, the Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) consolidated Israel's population registry, border control and immigration functions into a single body. Its ETA-IL system now requires most eligible foreign nationals to secure electronic authorization before travel, not just on arrival.

Key Features

• ETA-IL Authorization: A mandatory electronic travel authorization for most visa-exempt nationalities, applied for before departure.
• Residency Status: Handles applications and renewals for various residence categories.
• Visa Services: Covers visa categories for nationalities that require one beyond ETA-IL.
• Online Application System: ETA-IL applications are processed through PIBA's own digital system.

How to Get Started

• Check whether your nationality requires ETA-IL before booking travel to Israel.
• Apply through the official PIBA channel well before your departure date — approval isn't instant.
• For residence matters, visit gov.il/en/departments/piba to find the specific process.
• Carry proof of your approved ETA-IL or visa status when travelling.

Important Notice: ETA-IL approval can take time and isn't guaranteed — apply with a comfortable margin before travel rather than at the last minute, and don't assume visa-exemption alone is enough without checking the current ETA-IL requirement.