NEW YORK — Israel is rolling out its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) for visa-exempt countries.

The pilot phase starts on June 1, when travellers from the U.S. and Germany can apply for the ETA-IL.

A statement from the Israel Ministry of Tourism says the ETA-IL “will speed up online confirmations and allow for a simplified, stress-free, entry process through electronic check-in machines when visiting Israel.”

Travellers from all visa-exempt countries will be able to take advantage of the pilot program starting July 1.

And on Aug. 1 it will officially be instituted as the new entry protocol for all incoming travellers from visa-exempt countries.

Once approved, travellers can stay in Israel for up to 90 days, with the approval remaining valid for up to two years, or until their passport expires.

During the pilot phase June 1 – July 31, the application fee will be waived.

Starting Aug. 1, the application fee will be approximately US$7.

Applications for the ETA-IL can be made at israel-entry.piba.gov.il/.

Eyal Carlin, Commissioner of Tourism to North America, Israel Ministry of Tourism, says: “As a tech-forward county, streamlining the entry process with the new online ETA-IL application is a natural progression, and will allow for smoother arrivals and more time for travellers to enjoy all Israel has to offer.”

Carlin added: “While we are currently in a challenging time, we encourage those with an interest in visiting the country to take note of the new entry process as they continue their travel planning.”

More information about travel in Israel can be found at visit israel.travel.