For some years, countries in Europe plus a handful of other countries – 40 in total – have benefitted from visa-free travel to the United States. Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver program are required to do an on-line registration, called ESTA for Electronic System for Travel Authorization, which enables them to board a flight to the U.S. and present themselves to U.S. immigration officers. Visa-free travel means that tourists and business people can avoid the wait times and expense of applying for a U.S. visa.
Visa-free travel is restricted to visitors for business or pleasure, limits travelers to no more than 90 days in the U.S., and bars travelers from changing status or appealing any denial of admission. Persons applying for ESTA are carefully screened and individuals with police records, immigration violations or other risk factors are denied ESTA approvals and must go to a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, be interviewed by a consular officer and overcome any doubts about their admissibility.
In order for a country to be admitted to the Visa Waiver program, it must meet certain regulatory criteria especially relating to low rates of overstay and immigration violations. For years, Israel – an American ally and high-tech powerhouse – has sought admission to the Visa Waiver program. For as many years, Israel was denied admission to the Visa Waiver program for a variety of reasons – some regulatory, some political.
In September 2023, it was announced that Israel would become the 41st. country participating in the Visa Waiver program, with implementation planned for November 2023. The announcement was met with excitement and was considered a positive indication of Israel’s close relations with the U.S. and its integration into the global economy.
On October 19, on the 11th. day after the first day of the deadly Hamas incursion from Gaza, following a diplomatic visit by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and an extraordinary wartime visit by President Biden, it was announced that Israel’s admission to the Visa Waiver program would become effective immediately. Now, holders of Israeli passports – like citizens of Japan, Chile, France, Germany and other friendly countries – will have the benefit of visa free travel to the U.S. In view of the difficulties facing Israel following the Hamas surprise attack, the accelerated acceptance into the ESTA program is a welcome announcement and a gesture of friendship and support from the U.S. to its ally.
For additional information on the U.S. Department of State’s announcement, click here. To apply for visa-free travel/ESTA, click here. For additional information about ESTA and visa free travel for Israelis, contact us.