Israel entry requirements for Malta passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 7, 2026·View sources
eVisa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Maltese passport holders can enter Israel with an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) instead of a traditional visa. The application is quick and completed online before your trip. As of 2026, this is the standard entry requirement for short visits.
Apply for Israel eVisaOfficial portal: Israel Visa Portal
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Israel ETA-IL (eVisa)This is the electronic visa/entry permit for Israel; you must have it approved before you fly. Apply online before travel | Malta passport holders must obtain an approved ETA-IL (electronic travel authorization) before boarding. Apply at the official Israeli government portal (https://interior.gov.il/en/eta) at least 72 hours before departure. The fee is 25 ILS (~$7 USD) and processing typically takes minutes to a few hours. The ETA-IL is valid for 2 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first. | Required |
| Passport validityIsraeli immigration requires your passport to be valid well beyond your travel dates. At least 6 months beyond your stay | Your Malta passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Israel. Ensure your passport does not expire within this period. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesYou need a clean page in your passport for the border officer to stamp. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. No additional pages are required for the ETA-IL. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketYou must show you plan to leave Israel, not stay indefinitely. Proof of departure | Carry a printed or digital copy of your return or onward flight ticket showing you will leave Israel before your permitted stay ends. Immigration may ask to see it. | Required |
| Proof of fundsBorder officers may ask how you'll support yourself during your trip. Sufficient for your stay | Be ready to show evidence of sufficient funds for your visit (e.g., bank statements, credit cards, cash). The amount is not fixed but should cover accommodation and daily expenses. | Recommended |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any extra forms upon arrival beyond the standard immigration card. Not required | No separate arrival declaration is required for Malta passport holders entering Israel. The ETA-IL serves as your entry authorization. | Not required |
ETA is mandatory — not optional
Even though it's quick and cheap, you must have the ETA approved before you fly. Airlines check this at check-in. Without it, you'll be denied boarding.
Passport validity is strict
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. If it's close to expiring, renew it before applying for the ETA. Border officials at Ben Gurion are known to enforce this strictly.
Apply early, even though it's fast
Processing is usually instant, but the official recommendation is to apply 72 hours ahead. This covers any unexpected delays or additional checks.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for your ETA online
Go to https://interior.gov.il/en/eta and fill out the application. You'll need your passport details and an email address. Pay the 25 ILS fee (about $7 USD) with a credit/debit card. Approval is usually instant or within a few hours, but apply at least 72 hours before your flight to be safe.
2
Receive your ETA confirmation
You'll get an email with your ETA approval. Save it on your phone or print a copy. You'll need to show it at check-in and possibly at immigration. The ETA is linked to your passport number, so it's not a separate document you must present, but having it handy helps.
3
Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
Most flights from Malta land at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv. After landing, follow signs to 'Passport Control'. Have your passport and ETA confirmation ready. The officer will scan your passport and may ask a few questions about your trip. Answer honestly and clearly.
4
Go through passport control
The officer will stamp your passport (or provide an entry card). You'll be granted entry for up to 90 days. If you have any issues, ask for a supervisor. After clearing, collect your bags and proceed through customs.
Download Israel Entry Checklist
PDF · Malta Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 7, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
B/2 Visitor Visa (extension)
Max stayUp to 90 days per extension (max total 180 days per 12-month period)
ValidityIssued for the duration of the extension, typically up to 90 days
Cost₪ 170 (approx. $50)
Must apply before current 90-day visa-free period ends. Requires proof of funds, return ticket, and valid passport.
B/4 Work Visa (for employment)
Max stayUp to 1 year, renewable
ValidityIssued for the employment contract duration, up to 1 year
Cost₪ 500 (approx. $150) plus employer fees
Requires a job offer from an Israeli employer and a work permit approved by the Ministry of Interior.
A/2 Student Visa
Max stayUp to 1 year, renewable
ValidityIssued for the academic year
Cost₪ 500 (approx. $150)
Requires acceptance from an Israeli educational institution and proof of financial means.
work visa
B-1 Work Visa
Up to 1 year, renewable
~1,000 ILS (~$270 USD)
For foreign workers with employer sponsorship. Requires a job offer and approval from the Ministry of Interior. Allows long-term stay and work.
student visa
A-2 Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable annually
~500 ILS (~$135 USD)
For students enrolled in Israeli educational institutions. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds. Allows part-time work with permission.
investor visa
Investor Visa (B-5)
Up to 3 years, renewable
~2,000 ILS (~$540 USD)
For investors meeting minimum investment thresholds (e.g., $500,000 USD in local business). Requires business plan and approval from Ministry of Economy.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa extension (B/2 tourist visa)Apply at Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) office in Israel before current visa expires. | ₪ 170 (approx. $50) |
| Exit fee (if overstaying)Charged at border if you overstay your permitted period. | ₪ 200 (approx. $60) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Suspicious travel pattern20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Israel
No transit visa needed
Malta passport holders do not need a visa for airside transit through Israeli airports, provided they do not enter the country and have a confirmed onward ticket.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If you need to leave the transit area or stay overnight, you must obtain a B/2 visitor visa (or use the visa-free entry if eligible).
Transit hubsBen Gurion Airport (TLV) · Ramon Airport (ETM)
Health & vaccines for Israel
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio, influenza)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
West Nile VirusLow risk
Mosquito-borne; risk is low for tourists, but use repellent in rural areas.
Foodborne illnessLow risk
Standard food safety is good; risk is low for most travellers.
Heat-related illnessModerate risk
High temperatures in summer can cause dehydration; stay hydrated.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv District Immigration Office
15 Kaplan Street, Tel Aviv
Sun–Thu 08:30–16:30
Handles visa extensions and residency permits; bring passport and relevant forms.
Jerusalem
Jerusalem District Immigration Office
2 Shlomo HaMelech Street, Jerusalem
Sun–Thu 08:30–16:30
For visa-related issues; appointments recommended.
Practical information for MT travellers
Country basics
CapitalJerusalem
LanguageHebrew, Arabic
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS license valid for up to 1 year.
Money
CurrencyIsraeli New Shekel (ILS)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 3 ILS
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h (EST) / +6h (EDT)
vs Los Angeles+10h (PST) / +9h (PDT)
Electricity
Voltage230V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,HType H (Israeli) and C — US plugs do not fit. Bring a universal adapter.
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Safe to drink
Safe to drink throughout Israel.
Emergency numbers
Nearby destinations you can also visit
Countries close to Israel — with your same passport.
Frequently asked questions
No, you don't need a traditional visa. You need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), which is a quick online approval. It's not a visa, but it's mandatory for entry. Apply at https://interior.gov.il/en/eta.
The ETA allows stays of up to 90 days per visit. It's valid for multiple entries for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you want to stay longer, you'd need to leave and re-enter or contact the Population and Immigration Authority.
The fee is 25 ILS (about $7 USD). Processing is usually minutes to a few hours, but it's recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your flight. In rare cases, it can take longer, so don't wait until the last minute.
No, you must have the ETA approved before you travel. Airlines won't let you board without it. There's no on-arrival ETA process for Maltese citizens.
The ETA is linked to your passport number. If you get a new passport, you'll need to apply for a new ETA. The old one becomes invalid.
The ETA covers entry to Israel. For areas under Palestinian Authority control (like Bethlehem or Ramallah), you generally don't need a separate visa, but check current travel advisories. Some areas like Gaza are restricted and require special permits.
Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or a ban on re-entry. If you need to stay longer, contact the Population and Immigration Authority in Israel before your 90 days are up to discuss options.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 7, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.