Has it always been a dream to go to Israel? Do you want to go on a religious pilgrimage or perhaps float in the world-renowned Dead Sea? In this article, we’ll be telling you why you can go on your dream Israel tour package Visa-free!
Why can Filipinos fly to Israel without a Visa?
In the mid-1900s, the Holocaust spread fear and bloodshed for Jews all throughout the world. Nazi Germans had begun killing Jews in a mass genocide. In the 1930s, President Manuel Quezon and the rest of the Filipino people condemned these killings.
During the time of the Holocaust, President Manuel Quezon declared that the Philippines was open to all Jews who were being persecuted. Nearly 1,300 Jews traveled to the Philippines to take refuge there.
And in 1947, under President Manuel Roxas, the Philippines voted in favor of the United Nations Resolution 181. This would officially allow the creation of the state of Israel.
These actions led to the two countries signing a treaty of friendship in 1958. They also paved the way to allowing Filipinos to visit Israel Visa-free.
What happens once you arrive in Israel without a Visa?
After arranging your Israel tour package and flying to the Holy Land, here are a few things to keep in mind:
You’re going to be interviewed when you get there. Interviews usually take about 15 minutes and are conducted for security purposes. None of the questions will be personal. They’re only going to ask about what you plan to do in the country. Make sure to answer honestly!
You can only stay in Israel without a Visa for 90 days. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension at Misrad Hapnim (the Ministry of Interior in Israel). Be careful not to overstay as you might be banned from ever visiting again.
Having an Israeli stamp on your passport will make it difficult for you to enter other Middle Eastern countries, like UAE or Lebanon. This won’t be a problem if you’re touching down in the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. Instead of putting a stamp on your passport, they’ll issue you an entry card as proof that you entered Israel legally. Make sure to keep it safe throughout your stay.
When you spend money in Israel, you are also paying for the 17% tax. If you save the receipts of your purchases, you’ll be able to get a refund before you leave the country. To do this, request for the “chechbonit” receipt instead of the one they normally issue after buying anything.
To learn more, check out this article about why you should pay a visit to the Holy Land! Reasons Why Israel Should Be on Top of Your Bucket List. Ready for your Visa-free trip to Israel?