Israel Set To Welcome International Travellers In May
Mark May 23 in your calendar.
That’s when Israel will begin welcoming vaccinated groups of international travellers back into the country through a phased approach after more than a year without tourism due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Eyal Carlin, Tourism Commissioner for North America, said: “I am happy to share the news that Israel is taking great strides in reopening to international travel this May.”
Carlin continued: “We have been working to develop a plan that allows not only for the country to reopen to visitors, but also to ensure that everyone stays safe. We have come so far, and it is for this reason we are adapting this proactive strategy of having a phased opening. 60% of Israel’s population has been vaccinated and with the United States and Israel using the same vaccines, we are hopeful that by summer we can open our doors wide and welcome every visitor to Israel who would like to come.”
Gal Hana, Consul for Tourism and Director for Canada added: “Although it may likely take a little longer here in Canada, we are confident that Canadians will soon be able to travel to Israel.”
Hana continued: “Vaccinations in Canada are progressing, and we are optimistic on the recovery of the Canadian market based on endless inquiries and interest in travel to Israel. Canada is one of the most important markets and we can’t wait to welcome them back.”
Plans indicate that the series of phases and guidelines will be outlined and released next week.
The first phase will feature a pilot program kicking off on May 23, allowing a select number of tour groups to visit Israel — the number of groups will increase based on the overall health situation and progress/success of the program. Individual travellers will be welcomed in a later phase of reopening likely in July (TBD).
In all phases, visitors will be required to undergo a PCR test before boarding their flight to Israel, and a serological test to prove their vaccination upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport.
In the meantime, discussions will continue to reach agreements for vaccine-certificate validation, with the goal of cancelling the need for the serological test.
