After several postponements, Israel wants to reopen to tourists from September 19, 2021. The prerequisite is that you are fully vaccinated against Covid-19. The last required dose must not have been more than six months ago.

The decision of the government of Israel is interesting in view of the fact that it has been scientifically established that, for example, in mRNA vaccines the number of antibodies can have dropped sharply after about six months. So far, no other state has explicitly set six months. On the contrary: many countries, including Austria, inflate the validity of vaccinations to up to 12 months.

The official entry requirements of Israel state that you have to prove a third vaccination if the last required dose was more than six months ago. Otherwise, entry can be refused. In general, a negative PCR test, which must not be more than 72 hours old, must also be presented.

After arriving at an Israeli airport, another PCR smear is taken. A serological test is also carried out. Only when the findings of both are available and comply with the regulations can you move freely.

Caution! For the time being, Israel is only opening up to organized group tours. Specifically, this means that these must be booked through a tour operator who has the appropriate approval from the Israeli authorities. Individual travelers - i.e. you book everything yourself - have to wait even longer to enter the country for tourist purposes. There is still no date when Israel will open to them.