As of October 19, 2023, many Israeli passport holders can travel to the United States without a visa through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) by using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This program is managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This article addresses frequently asked questions to help Israeli citizens understand the ESTA process and requirements for visa-free travel to the United States.
What is ESTA for Israeli Citizens?
ESTA is an automated online system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. It allows eligible Israeli citizens to visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days without needing a visa. Before October 2023, Israelis typically needed to apply for a visa, often requiring an interview. An approved ESTA is generally valid for two years, permitting multiple entries into the United States. You can apply for ESTA here.
Alt: Screenshot of the ESTA application form on the official CBP website, highlighting the fields required for submission.
Who is Eligible to Apply for ESTA?
Israeli citizens traveling to the United States by air, land, or sea for tourism, business, or transit purposes for stays of 90 days or less are generally eligible for ESTA. This includes trips for tourism, visiting family, or attending business meetings – purposes typically covered by a B1/B2 visa. However, ESTA is not for those intending to study, work, or engage in activities requiring a different type of visa. For those activities, obtaining the appropriate U.S. visa remains necessary. You can apply for ESTA here.
Should I Cancel My Visa Interview After ESTA Introduction?
No, do not cancel your scheduled visa interview. The DS-160 fee for the visa application is non-refundable. Even if you plan to travel using ESTA, keep your visa interview appointment. Holding an ESTA authorization does not prevent you from also holding a visa.
ESTA vs. B1/B2 Visa: Which is Better for Israeli Travelers?
While ESTA offers convenience, a B1/B2 visa provides greater flexibility. ESTA applicants can apply online and often receive authorization within 24-72 hours, sometimes even faster, without an interview. The cost for ESTA is $21, allowing multiple entries within its two-year validity.
However, some travelers might prefer a visa. The B1/B2 visa costs $185 but is valid for ten years for Israeli passport holders, permitting multiple entries with stays of up to 180 days each. Visas offer increased flexibility, allowing holders to apply to adjust their status or extend their stay in the U.S., options not available with ESTA.
ESTA limits stays to a maximum of 90 days, is non-extendable, and does not allow travelers to change their status within the U.S.
Alt: A detailed comparison table highlighting the differences in cost, validity, interview requirements, and stay limitations between ESTA and B1/B2 Visa for travel to the United States.
Here’s a comparison table summarizing the key differences:
| ESTA | B1/B2 Visa | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | See the ESTA website for current fees | See travel.state.gov for current fees |
| Validity Period | 2 years | 10 years |
| Number of visits | Multiple | Multiple |
| Interview Required? | No | Yes |
| Max Duration of Stay | 90 Days | 180 Days |
| May apply to Adjust Status? | No | Yes |
| May apply to Extend Stay? | No | Yes |
What Do I Need to Apply for ESTA as an Israeli Citizen?
To apply for ESTA, you need a machine-readable electronic passport with a digital chip containing biometric information. This passport type is identifiable by its blue cover featuring a microchip symbol. The passport must have an original validity of ten years for adults and five years for individuals under 18. If you are an adult with a five-year Israeli passport, you’ll need a ten-year passport to use ESTA. Alternatively, you can apply for a B1/B2 visa with your five-year passport.
Do I Need to Apply for ESTA if I Already Have a Valid U.S. Visa?
No, if you possess a valid U.S. visa, you do not need to apply for ESTA. Israeli citizens traveling to the U.S. require either a valid visa or an approved ESTA.
I Paid a Fee to Register Under ESTA. Was That Necessary?
Yes, there is a fee associated with ESTA applications. The fee is $4 for the application, and an additional $17 is charged upon approval. The only official ESTA registration site is https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Many non-U.S. government websites charge extra for submitting the application on your behalf. If you paid more than $21, you likely registered through one of these unofficial websites.
It’s crucial to verify that your registration was successful and that all information submitted on your behalf is accurate. Incorrect submissions by vendors can lead to ESTA denial and potential ineligibility for ESTA in the future. Check your application status and accuracy on the official ESTA website using your reference number.
ESTA Application Retrieval Issues: “No Application Found”
When retrieving your ESTA application, ensure you enter the information exactly as it appeared on the approved application. If the system can’t find your application, it means there might be a mistake in your original submission, requiring you to reapply. If you continue to experience issues, contact CBP through their website for assistance.
What Happens If My ESTA is Denied?
If your ESTA application is denied, you must apply for a visa, pay the visa application fee, and schedule a visa interview. U.S. Embassy Consular staff do not manage the ESTA program and cannot provide specific reasons for denial. CBP generally does not disclose the reasons for denial. However, some denials are due to non-compliant passports (not a full-validity biometric Israeli passport). Further information can be found on the CBP’s ESTA website.
If you believe the denial was incorrect, you can file a redress request through the DHS Travel Redress Inquiry Program (TRIP). Note that there’s no guarantee that this will resolve the issue. For further questions about ESTA denials, contact CBP directly through their Info Center.
Alt: A visual representation of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Travel Redress Inquiry Program (TRIP), showcasing its role in addressing travel-related inquiries and resolving issues for travelers.
Impact of Prior Visa or ESTA Refusal on ESTA Eligibility
A previous visa or ESTA refusal, regardless of the passport used, can lead to ESTA denial, additional scrutiny at U.S. ports of entry, or denial of admission to the U.S. If you are unsure about your eligibility under the VWP, applying for a visa is advisable.
Email Notifications About ESTA Expiration: Are They Real?
If you provided your email address when applying for ESTA, you will receive an expiration notice as your ESTA nears its expiry date. Be cautious of scam emails, texts, or other communications falsely claiming to be from the U.S. government. Always reapply through the official ESTA website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov.
Travel to Specific Countries and ESTA Eligibility
If you have traveled to Cuba since January 2021, you might not be eligible for ESTA. Similarly, travel to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and/or Yemen on or after March 1, 2011, may affect your eligibility. More details are available in the Customs & Border Protection FAQ.
Conclusion: Navigating Visa-Free Travel for Israeli Citizens
The introduction of ESTA for Israeli citizens marks a significant convenience for short-term travel to the United States. However, understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and limitations compared to a traditional visa is essential for a smooth travel experience. Always rely on official sources for information and be wary of unofficial websites and communications. By staying informed, Israeli travelers can make the best choice for their travel needs, whether it’s leveraging the efficiency of ESTA or opting for the greater flexibility of a B1/B2 visa.
