Israel: Entry Rules Relaxed for U.S. Citizens With Dual Citizenship in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon or Syria
July 26, 2023
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At a Glance
- Israel recently published a regulation allowing the Minister of the Interior to grant a residency permit to U.S. citizens with dual citizenship in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon or Syria if there is evidence that the issuance of such a permit is of special or important interest to Israel.
- Eligible applicants will be allowed entry for up to 90 days but will not be able to perform work of any type.
- These changes are part of an understanding between Israeli and U.S. governments in order for Israel to be admitted to the U.S. visa exemption program.
The situation
Israel recently published a regulation allowing the Minister of the Interior to grant a residency permit to U.S. citizens with dual citizenship in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon or Syria if there is evidence that the issuance of such a permit is of special or important interest to Israel.
A closer look
- Previous related rule. Previously, U.S. citizens with dual citizenship in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon or Syria were not allowed entry to Israel.
- Form of entry. U.S. citizens with no security bans or criminal, immigration or health disqualifications are eligible for a B-2 Admission Paper in Israel, which allows a stay of up to 90 days.
- Entry for residents of Judea/Samaria areas. As an additional note, U.S. citizens who are residents of the Judea or Samaria areas of Palestine who present Palestinian residence documents at the Allenby Bridge Crossing can continue to enter those areas for a stay of up to 90 days. Those entering Israel through a domestic border can submit a permit request under the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories procedures.
- Appeals. Those denied entry under this regulation can submit an appeal to the court of appeals or can submit a request to the Population Administration.
Background
This new regulation aims to establish a framework for mutual benefits and streamlined processes at border crossings between the two nations. The Israeli government recently implemented a rule allowing U.S. citizens with Palestinian identification cards to enter Israel for tourism and business under the same regulations as other U.S. citizens.
Impact
This regulation expands the entry rules for U.S. citizens with dual citizenship in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon or Syria under the condition that the Minister of Interior approves their entry after recognizing a special or important interest to Israel. The Minister of Interior recently released details of the application process.
Looking ahead
These changes are part of an understanding between the Israeli and U.S. governments in order for Israel to be admitted to the U.S. visa waiver program. We will report on related developments.
Fragomen worked closely with Kan-Tor & Acco Law Firm to prepare this alert. This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
