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Israel Visa for Hong Kong Citizens 2026

e-Visa / eTA

Hong Kong SAR passport holders must obtain Israel's Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) online before departure; it is free of charge for most applicants and is typically approved within 72 hours.

Guide last updated October 24, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned departure from Israel
  • A valid email address to receive the ETA approval
  • Scanned passport bio-data page uploaded during the online application
  • Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
  • Details of accommodation in Israel
  • No biometrics are collected for the ETA itself, though border officers may ask questions on arrival
  • Travel insurance is recommended but not mandatory

Visa types

  • Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) - for visa-exempt nationalities including Hong Kong SAR, multiple entries, each stay up to 90 days, valid for up to 2 years or until passport expiry, whichever is sooner
  • Standard tourist visa (B/2) - only needed by nationalities not covered by the visa-exemption/ETA list, not applicable to Hong Kong SAR passport holders
  • Business, work, and study visas - separate categories requiring sponsorship and advance application through an Israeli consulate

How to apply online

  • Apply through the official portal linked from gov.il/en/departments/guiding/visa_units, at least 72 hours before departure
  • Enter passport details, travel dates, and contact information
  • Upload a scan of your passport's bio-data page
  • Submit the application; most applicants receive approval by email, usually within a few hours and no later than 72 hours
  • Print or save the approval email/QR code and present it with your passport at check-in and on arrival in Israel

Fees & processing time

  • ETA-IL application fee: free of charge for most applicants (subject to change, check the official portal before applying)
  • Standard processing: usually within a few hours, officially up to 72 hours
  • No expedited paid service is offered; apply as early as possible, ideally at least a week before travel, to allow for any delays
  • A standard visa through a consulate, if required, typically takes 5-10 working days

Tips for Hong Kong travelers

  • Apply for the ETA as soon as your flight is booked rather than waiting until the last 72 hours, since delays can occasionally occur
  • Keep a digital and printed copy of the approval, as airlines may check it before boarding
  • Be ready to answer questions about the purpose and duration of your visit at Israeli border control, which is known for thorough questioning
  • Note that a passport with stamps from certain countries may draw extra scrutiny on arrival
  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is advisable given variable costs of healthcare for visitors

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.