Moldova and Ukraine have expressed concerns over Israel’s new travel rules, which require foreign visitors from visa-exempt countries to obtain prior authorization before entering the country. This move, they warn, could jeopardize their visa-free agreements with Israel and negatively impact the thousands of Orthodox pilgrims who travel to Eastern Europe annually.
Starting in August, visitors from visa-exempt countries must secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before traveling to Israel, as announced by the Interior Ministry’s Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA). The ETA allows travelers to reach Israel’s border but does not guarantee entry. Border control officers retain the authority to deny entry upon arrival.
Moldovan Ambassador Alex Roitman emphasized that Moldova might be compelled to implement reciprocal measures. “Despite a decade of visa-free travel, multiple Moldovan citizens have been denied entry in the past. With the new rules, Chisinau will be obliged to impose a similar preliminary approval system for Israeli citizens,” Roitman stated.
The new Israeli policy, which aims to enhance security, has raised concerns among Moldova and Ukraine regarding the potential disruption of travel and the broader implications for their citizens and bilateral relations.