Erickson Immigration Group is closely monitoring the security situation in Israel following the events which unfolded over the weekend.
This situation is expected to be ongoing, and as a result, the ability to travel in or out of Israel remains fluid and is likely to change without notice. All people in the region should adhere to local authorities’ guidance on safety and security.
EIG will share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting below or case-specific questions.
Immigration in Israel: Due to the current security situation in Israel, the Population and Immigration Authority has extended the period of validity of all valid visas held by foreigners in Israel, which are due to expire in the coming month, until November 9, 2023. After this period, if there is no further notice, visa extension must be carried out as per the usual procedures.
Travel to Israel: As of 12:45 EST, and according to the Ben Gurion airport website, Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is operating as planned, including departures and landings. US and other countries’ airlines have suspended service to Israel. At the present time, United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines have suspended flights to Tel Aviv. El Al, Emirates and Turkish Airlines continue to operate. Travelers should confirm flights with airlines. Check status at Ben Gurion International Airport status here.
Israeli Citizens Abroad: As of October 9, 2023, Israeli citizens abroad who wish to return to Israel should complete this online form. If a citizen is traveling with a family, one representative per family should complete the form on behalf of the family. Completing the form does not guarantee flights or facilitated entry to Israel. The guidance is currently only available in Hebrew.
Americans in Israel:
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U.S. citizens in Israel who need assistance can contact the U.S. Embassy in Israel as follows: https://cacms.state.gov/s/crisis-intake or call +1-833-890-9595 and +1-606-641-0131.
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U.S. citizens can check the status of land border crossings here.
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U.S. citizens in Israel who have family members missing in the Gaza periphery can go to the Israel National Police’s combined assistance center at 4 HaNegev Street in Airport City.
U.S. Embassy personnel must observe a curfew from 8 p.m. – 6 a.m. and are urged to stay close to home outside the curfew hours. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from personal travel to the West Bank. U.S. citizens should take this into consideration when planning their own activities.
US Citizens in the Region: The US State Department on X (formerly Twitter), wrote “Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon: The situation in Israel continues to be unpredictable, and U.S. citizens throughout the region should take caution. Individuals should follow local government advice to increase their security awareness, avoid areas around demonstrations, and check local media for updates and traffic advisories. U.S. citizens who need assistance should contact the closest U.S. embassy or consulate. U.S. citizens who wish to leave the region and can do so safely are advised to check the status of the border crossings or verify flights at nearby airports.”