Bringing Friends and Family to Israel During the Partner Visa Process: What Really Works

Bringing friends or family to Israel while you’re navigating the partner visa process can feel overwhelming. There are many versions of the rules, different experiences, and lots of information online.That’s why, at Mixed Neshamot, we wanted to share what has worked for most of us, along with key information based on real experiences from our community.

This post is not a replacement for official guidance, but it can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Step 1: Check if Your Guest Needs a Visa

Before anything else, the first step is to verify whether your friend or family member qualifies for the ETA-IL or needs a visitor visa.

You can check ETA-IL eligibility on the official Israeli government website.

• If they do NOT qualify for ETA-IL:The application must be done through the Israeli embassy in their home country and/or directly with Misrad HaPnim (MH).

• If they DO qualify for ETA-IL: Below is the process that has worked for most women in our community.

  
  

ETA-IL: What You Need to Know

As of January 1st, 2025, all visa-exempt tourists, including minors, are required to obtain an ETA-IL before traveling to Israel.

Key details:

• Fee: 25₪

• Validity: Up to 2 years, until passport expiration, or until revoked

• Multiple entries allowed

• Airlines are fully synchronized with the ETA-IL system and may deny boarding if the traveler does not have a valid ETA-IL

• Israeli citizens and holders of valid Israeli visas (B1, A5, etc.) do not need to apply

  
  

What You Need to Apply for ETA-IL

Make sure you have:

• An email address you can access

• An estimated arrival and departure date

• The guest’s personal information

• A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival

• A clear photo of the passport

Here is the link to apply for the ETA-IL and here is how the confirmation email looks like:

Documents We Strongly Recommend Bringing

Even if not always requested, being prepared makes a big difference, especially at border control.

1. International Health Insurance

• Can be issued in the guest’s home country or by an Israeli company

• Must cover foreigners in Israel

  
  

2. Outbound Flight Ticket

• Even if mentioned in the invitation letter, have proof of the return flight ready, printed or saved

  
  

3. Invitation Letter (Very Important)

This letter must be written by the Israeli partner and include:

• Guest’s full name and passport number

• Your full name and ID number (TZ)

  • If you are on a B1 visa, use your passport number

• How the guest is related to you

• How the guest is related to the Israeli citizen

• Full flight details (arrival and departure)

• Address where the guest will stay

• Israeli partner’s full name, phone number, and TZ

Here is a quick snap of how the letter should look - this is based on the letter Ana uses when her parents come to visit.

Final Community Tips

• Make sure your Israeli partner is available when the flight lands. Border control may call to confirm details.

• Even in 2026, printed documents still help a lot. If your guests are not comfortable with technology or don’t speak English, we recommend printing everything. Some parents travel with a folder containing all documents and simply hand it to the officer if asked.

• Prepare your guests for possible questions, such as:

  • How did you meet?

  • How long will you stay?

  • Why are you visiting now?

  • Where will you be staying?

    
    

Having loved ones close during this process makes a huge difference.

We hope this guide helps you feel more supported, prepared, and less alone.

If you’ve been through this and have tips to add, share them with the community.