Is Israel Visa Free for Filipinos? [Visa Free Guide to Israel for Philippines Passport]
Israel is one of the countries in the list of most Catholics or Christians all over the world. Israel is the promised land; the nation told in the Bible and where Jesus was born and died. It's a dream to get a Holy Land Tour; see Bethlehem, Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea and many more!
Luckily for us, Philippine Passport Holders, Israel is visa free! Other 98 nationalities can enter this country without requiring a visa, too. Learn more about Israel and the visa free terms as you read along with this article!
Other Articles You can Read:
Visa Free Countries
The following countries do not require a visa to enter Israel for a maximum stay of 3 months according to their Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
Requirements for Entering Israel
1. Valid Passport - valid for at least 6 months from the last stay in Israel
3. Travel Itinerary
4. Confirmed Hotel Booking
5. Cash or Credit Card
Important Note with regards to an Israel Stamp
There are a few countries that don't allow you to enter their land if you ever have Israeli stamps. They are members of the Arab Boycott League and are:
Iraq (except for Kurdistan)
Lebanon
Libya
Sudan
Syria
Yemen
Other countries that may refuse those with stamps include Iran, Kuwait, Qatar, and UAE. However, Saudi Arabia may admit you if you have a valid visa or e-visa.
BUT! Do not worry! Israel doesn't stamp visas, due to this. However, you will be given a BLUE CARD which is your entry permit.
ANOTHER BUT is that you need to be careful when you exit and cross borders to Jordan or Egypt. Though there are no stamps in Israel's side, these two countries do stamp passports. Immigration will then know you have been to Israel through those entry stamps.
Overview of Israel
Capital: Jerusalem
Language: Hebrew and Arabic (English is also widely spoken)
Currency: New Shekel (1 USD = 3.5 ILS)
Israel is a country in West Asia surrounded by Lebanon, Suria, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, the Mediterranean, and the Red Sea. Though Jerusalem is the capital city, Tel Aviv is the economic center of the country. The whole country was known as Palestine under British rule but became Israel. This nation is also considered as Holy Land to those under Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
There is ongoing political tension and conflicts between Israel and Arab countries since 1948. This is because Israel (Jewish homeland) and Palestine (Arab homeland) both claim the territory. There are areas assigned for Jewish States, Arab States, and none (Jerusalem.) So I advise you to please avoid conversations with regards to this.
Going to Israel
There are two major Airports in Israel, Ben Gurion in Tel Aviv and J. Hozman in Eilat. There are flights from Asia (Jordan, Russia, Turkey, India, China, South Korea, Georgia), Africa (Egypt, Seychelles), Europe, and the Americas (USA, Canada).
If you are from the Philippines, you can stop by Istanbul, Turkey before arriving at Tel Aviv.
What to do in Israel
1. Float in the Dead Sea
Photo by Keith Chan
The Dead sea is one of the most famous spots in Israel and known all over the world. There are no living organisms like fish or plants in the Dead Sea because of its saltiness except for bacteria and fungi. Try floating in the lowest point on Earth, as it's not only a memorable experience but also has healing properties.
2. Walk in the old city of Jerusalem
Have a spiritual journey as you walk the city of Jerusalem and do the same route as Christ did while carrying his cross. This is a special place for Christians, Jewish, and Muslims. Look for the Dome of the Rock Mosque, Via Dolorosa, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Tower of Citadel, Jewish Quarter, museums, and many more.
3. See where Jesus grew up
Nazareth is the Arab Capital of Israel and the place where Jesus grew up (remember Jesus of Nazareth?) Try going to the Church of Annunciation (where Gabriel said to Mary she's pregnant,) Synagogue Church (where Jesus preached,) Mensa Christi Church (the placed Jesus dined with Apostles), and many more. You should do the Jesus Trail route that is a 60-kilometer walk.
4. Go to the City of David
You'll have a historical tour where King David and the unified tribes of Israel settled thousands of years ago. Gain more knowledge about Israel and its culture as you stroll around the ancient buildings. Try also going on an underground tour in their tunnels.
5. Have Fun in Tel Aviv
Israel is not only historical and religious, but there's also a side that's fun and relaxing. There are also white sand beaches and calm waters in Tel Aviv. Tel Aviv's nightlife is also diverse and loud; you should not miss this on your trip!
6. Swim in Eilat
Eilat is Israel's resort town that's an excellent place for snorkeling or diving. Go to Coral Beach Nature Reserve to be amazed by the marine life Israel is proud of! You can also rent equipment in case you don't have one!
Frequently Asked Questions for your travel in Israel
1. Is Israel Visa-free?
For Philippine Passport Holders, it is a visa free. For other nationalities, see the list above!
2. Is it safe to travel to Israel?
There's political unrest in Israel, though we felt safe when we went there last 2016. But I always suggest having travel insurance while traveling.
3. Is it expensive in Israel for tourists?
Israel is a costly country; a meal in McDonald's could be USD14! It's better to do things in a group instead of doing it yourself. You could also travel on a budget; book hostels, join free tours, and drink tap water!
4. When is the best time to visit Israel?
Spring (April and May) and Autumn (September and October) are great times to visit Israel as the temperatures are the best. However, going there during Holy Week is the best, especially when booking a pilgrim tour with a priest!
5. Where should I stay in Israel?
You can stay at Tel Aviv, Eilat or Jerusalem as they are the best places to stay for Tourists.
Israel is truly a dream destination that you can visit without much hassle as Filipinos can enter visa free! Just always be careful with your stamps and exit areas, especially if you want to travel the world! You don't want to be blocked because of one stamp. Though it's there's conflict in Israel; it's one of the most progressive states in the Middle East. So, don't be scared and visit this superb country!