ISRAEL – Since 9 January 2022, the conditions for entry into Israel have been considerably eased, even compared to the measures in force last fall: tourists, even individuals from “orange” countries, are now allowed to come.

This decision, long-awaited by millions of pilgrims, unfortunately arrives after a sad and lonely Christmas for the Christian community of the Holy Land, who was deeply affected by the decision to close the borders at the end of November – even though organized trips were slowly resuming, although still subject to very strict conditions.

This sudden reversal guarantees the very first pilgrims who will attempt the adventure a unique spiritual and human experience on sites that will undoubtedly be rapidly taken over after two years of closure.

Required conditions for entry into Israel:

  • Complete vaccination scheme (At least 14 days have passed since the date of the second vaccination at the date of arrival in Israel – but no more than 180 days at the date of departure from Israel. If necessary, a certificate of cure and/or booster dose will also be required – the injection must then have been done more than 14 days before entry into Israel)
  • Negative PCR test done less than 72 hours before entry into Israel. The certificate must contain your passport number and your negative result clearly indicated in English.
  • Online form to be completed within 48 hours prior to your departure, providing all the details about your vaccination status and specifying the modalities of your stay (accommodation, people you’re traveling with, etc.)
  • PCR test upon arrival at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, with compulsory isolation until a negative result is received (within 24 hours following your arrival in Israel).

Information on these procedures can be found on two websites made available by the Israeli government:

You will find the list of vaccines recognized by Israel, the updated list of orange countries, how to fill in the online form, how to book and prepay the PCR test at Tel Aviv airport, the conditions and rules of isolation, the list of laboratories where you can do the PCR test required before your return trip. Be careful: compliance with this entry protocol does not release you from the obligations that may be required by your own country upon your return (test before boarding, online declaration forms, etc.).

Finally, land border crossings (especially with Jordan) are subject to very strict health and security regulations that should be checked with a local tour operator before you plan your trip.

www.lpj.org