On September 26, 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Department of State, officially designated Israel into the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. This designation allows eligible travelers from Israel to apply online for authorization to visit the United States for tourism or business purposes without the need to obtain a U.S. visa. Israeli citizens and nationals who hold valid B-1/B-2 visas can still use them for business and tourist travel to the United States.
Eligible Israeli citizens and nationals must possess a biometrically enabled passport book. The processing of ESTA applications may take up to 72 hours. Initially, the ESTA application is available in English only, but it will become available in other languages no later than November 1, 2023. To submit ESTA applications, you can visit esta.cbp.dhs.gov or download the “ESTA Mobile” app from the iOS App Store or the Google Play Store.