As of June 20, 2025, Israelis wishing to leave the country—even on rescue or commercial flights—will need to receive special approval from a newly established Exceptions Committee. The move is part of a government response to the ongoing security situation and aims to regulate and prioritize outbound travel during a time of elevated risk.
What’s Changing?
This new policy, spearheaded by the Prime Minister’s Office, requires that all Israeli citizens—regardless of whether they also hold a foreign passport—obtain prior authorization to leave Israel, unless their travel falls under specific, approved categories.
The Exceptions Committee, chaired by Drorit Steinmetz (Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office), includes representatives from the Ministry of Transportation, the Foreign Ministry, Home Front Command, National Emergency Authority, and the Population and Immigration Authority.
Foreign nationals (non-Israelis) and tourists in Israel will face a less stringent process, involving only a brief formality—likely involving documentation of their planned flights and travel insurance—but will not need to prove essential need to leave the country.
Why the Policy?
Originally, there was discussion of banning Israeli citizens from leaving altogether for security reasons. After legal and logistical deliberations, the compromise was to allow departures but only for those with urgent or essential needs, which must be approved by the committee. The goal is to reduce unnecessary travel and ensure critical infrastructure and military objectives are prioritized.
What Counts as an “Essential Need”?
The committee will approve departures for situations such as:
- Medical treatments unavailable in Israel
- Ongoing academic or professional programs that cannot be postponed
- Emergency family matters, including caregiving responsibilities
- Critical business travel required to maintain national or global operations
The committee is expected to reject requests for leisure trips, tourism, or casual personal reasons.
What You Need to Know
- Only 10–15% of seats on outgoing flights will be reserved for passengers approved through the Exceptions Committee.
- The remaining seats will go to customers of the airlines who booked via standard channels, assuming they’re not Israeli citizens or have already received clearance.
- A dedicated call center is being staffed with approximately 150 representatives to process applications, conduct interviews, and provide guidance on documentation.
Practical Tips for Travelers Affected by the New Rules
If you are an Israeli citizen planning to travel abroad after June 20, here’s how to navigate the process effectively:
1. Determine If Your Travel Is Eligible
If your trip is non-essential (e.g., vacation, family visit without medical urgency), it is unlikely to be approved. Evaluate whether your travel can be reclassified with supporting documentation (e.g., for work or study).
2. Gather Strong Supporting Documents
Approved cases will require:
- Medical letters (translated to English if relevant)
- Official invitations or acceptance letters (from academic institutions, employers, hospitals)
- Flight reservations and proof of overseas accommodation
- Evidence that travel is time-sensitive and cannot be delayed
3. Act Early
With limited flight seats and a growing backlog of requests, initiate your application as soon as possible. Expect delays.
4. Use the Call Center
Call center agents will help clarify eligibility and guide you through required paperwork. Take detailed notes during your call and follow up as needed.
5. Consider Legal Help for Complex Cases
While not required, legal professionals with experience in administrative or immigration law may be able to present your case more effectively, especially if previous requests have been denied.
6. Appeal If Denied
If your application is rejected, you may have the right to appeal or request a reconsideration with additional documentation.
Bottom Line
Israel’s new outbound travel policy is designed to prioritize national needs and safety during a volatile period. While it may be frustrating for would-be travelers, those with essential reasons and proper documentation can still secure permission to fly. Early planning, clear justification, and attention to detail will be key.
If you fall into a high-priority category—students, critical workers, or those with urgent medical or family needs—begin the process now.
Source: Calcalist
