Get the United Kingdom visa for Israeli citizens

No, you don't need a traditional visa for tourism, family visits, or business meetings for stays up to six months. However, since February 25, 2026, all Israeli citizens must have a valid UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before boarding. Without this digital permission, you'll be denied boarding by your carrier, even for short trips.

The ETA is a digital travel permission linked to your passport. It currently costs £16, though the fee is scheduled to increase to £20 on April 8, 2026. It's valid for two years (or until your passport expires) and allows for multiple entries. Most applications are approved within a day, but it’s recommended to apply at least three days before your flight.

No. The UK ETA is only available to holders of full biometric national passports. If you hold an Israeli provisional passport (Teudat Maavar), you aren't eligible for the ETA and must apply for a Standard Visitor Visa at a UK Visa Application Centre before traveling. Using an ETA on a non-national passport will lead to entry refusal at the border.

No. The ETA and visitor status strictly prohibit paid or unpaid work in the UK. You cannot take up employment, provide services as a freelancer, or set up a business. For any form of work, you must apply for a specific sponsored route, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires a job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer.

No. You cannot switch your immigration status from a visitor (ETA) to a long-term visa (like a Student or Skilled Worker visa) while physically inside the UK. If you decide you want to live, work, or study long-term, you must return to Israel and submit a fresh application through the official UK points-based system.