Israel has announced that it is welcoming travel from vaccinated international tourists, including Canadians, for the first time in more than 18 months.
The new rules took effect as of 01NOV.
After kicking off the pilot reopening program in MAY 2021, which initially allowed a select number of tour groups to enter, all vaccinated travelers may now visit Israel after the extended closure due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“We are beyond delighted that our fellow Canadian travelers can once again visit Israel and experience all the country has to offer,” said Gal Hana, Israel Consul of Tourism for Canada. “Our ultimate goal has been to ensure the health of all travelers and provide peace of mind to those who choose our country as their holiday destination.”
Israeli government officials say new developments and COVID-19 variants are being monitored closely.
“We have been awaiting this moment, to bring back travelers into our country, for a very long time now,” said Yoel Razvozov, Israel’s Minister of Tourism. “We’re ecstatic to share our country with everyone once again and I’m proud to be working closely with our Prime Minister Naftali Bennett among other Ministers within the country to ensure a thoughtful, safe return to tourism."
As of 01NOV 2021, Israel’s entry guidelines include taking a PCR test 72 hours before the flight, filling out a passenger declaration, and taking a PCR test upon arrival in the country. Travellers must then quarantine in a hotel until results return or until 24 hours pass, the lesser of the two.
To enter Israel, travellers must have been vaccinated with two doses of the Pfizer, Moderna or AstraZeneca vaccine, or one dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, at least 14 days prior to the day of entry.
14 days must have passed since receival of second dose upon arrival into Israel, but no more than 180 days upon leaving. This means that if it has been six months since the second dose, travellers will need a booster shot to enter. Those that have received the booster vaccine dose, and at least 14 days have passed since received, can enter Israel.
Travellers can also enter if they have recovered from COVID-19 and who present proof of the results of a positive NAAT test at least 11 days prior to the day of entry into Israel, or if they have recovered from COVID-19 and have received at least one dose of the WHO-approved vaccines.
For more information, visit Israel’s travel web site.
“To say we are excited that Israel is reopening to travelers today is an understatement,” said Eyal Carlin, Tourism Commissioner for North America. “Israel has taken incredible steps to protect its people and visitors and we pride ourselves on ensuring a COVID-safe and unforgettable trip to those who will be entering our beautiful country.”
