Understanding Entry Requirements for the West Bank
When planning a visit to Palestine, it’s important to be aware of the entry requirements for the West Bank. To enter the West Bank, travelers must obtain an Israeli visa, as Palestine’s borders are controlled by Israel. Despite being partially recognized as a state, Palestine does not have authority over its borders, making an “official Palestinian visa” non-existent.
Travelers have three main entry points to the West Bank: Israel, Jordan, or Egypt. Each of these options requires dealing with Israeli border control officials to secure an Israeli visa.
- Many visitors choose to fly into Ben Gurion Airport near Tel-Aviv, Israel, as their entry point to the West Bank.
- Upon arrival at the airport, tourists from most western countries receive a free on-arrival B/2 tourist visa, typically valid for 90 days.
- It’s advisable to check your country’s visa requirements for Israel before traveling, as over 99 jurisdictions do not require a visa in advance for tourism purposes.
- Citizens of the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, Russia, and most of Latin America are eligible for a visa on arrival.
If you plan to stay longer in the West Bank, you can apply for a visa extension through the Israeli government or opt for a ‘visa run’ to Jordan or Egypt. A visa run involves briefly crossing an international border to reset an expiring visa.
For many travelers, a weekend trip to Jordan or Egypt and returning to Israel can result in a new three-month B/2 tourist visa. While applying for a visa extension through the government is possible, it is often a lengthy process with a high rejection rate, leading many to choose the visa run option.
However, it’s important to be cautious about repeatedly extending your visa through a visa run, as this may raise suspicions with Israeli border officials and could result in rejection or a ban from entering Israel.
The Israeli “Passport Stamp” Policy
Israel has discontinued stamping tourists’ passports to avoid complications for travelers in the region. This decision was influenced by the Arab League boycott of Israel, which restricts entry for individuals with Israeli passport stamps. While Israeli officials retain the right to stamp passports, it is uncommon.
Instead of a passport stamp, travelers receive a loose-leaf visa entry card as proof of legal entry. It’s essential to keep this card safe, as it serves as evidence of lawful entry and may be requested at checkpoints in the West Bank.
Navigating Border Control Procedures
It is advised for independent travelers to be transparent about their travel plans when interacting with Israeli border officials. While Israel aims to restrict foreign activists from entering the West Bank, travel to the region is legal and common. Providing false information can lead to deportation or denial of entry, as border officials have discretion over entry decisions.
Expect thorough security checks when traveling to and from the West Bank, especially if you have visited other countries in the region. These checks are typically more extensive when entering Israel for the first time or after an extended stay in the West Bank. Remaining calm, respectful, and truthful can help expedite the visa process and ensure a smooth entry into the West Bank.
