Israel: Entry Rules Relaxed for U.S. Citizens With Dual Citizenship in Iran, Iraq, Lebanon or Syria

• 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.

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.

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.

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.