Do Finland passport holders need a visa to visit PS?
A Finnish (EU) passport holder does not need a Palestinian visa, but access to the Palestinian Territories (West Bank) is controlled entirely by Israeli entry points. Since 1 January 2025 Israel requires visa-exempt travelers, including all EU citizens, to obtain an ETA-IL electronic travel authorization (NIS 25) before arrival. With an approved ETA-IL, Finns enter under Israel's visa-exempt regime for stays of up to 90 days and may then travel into the West Bank. Palestine (the State of Palestine / Palestinian Territories) does not operate its own visa system for foreign tourists arriving from abroad. All international entry to the West Bank is via Israeli-controlled gateways: Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge from Jordan. Foreign visitors are therefore admitted under Israel's visa policy. Finland is on Israel's visa-exempt list, so a Finnish ordinary passport holder receives a free entry permit (the printed "blue slip", as Israel no longer stamps passports) good for up to 90 days. However, effective 1 January 2025, Israel made the ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) mandatory for all visa-exempt nationals before they board a flight or cross a land border. The ETA-IL costs NIS 25, is typically approved within hours to 72 hours, is valid for two years (or until passport expiry) and allows multiple entries with stays up to 90 days each. Gaza is effectively inaccessible to tourists. Note that Israeli security screening is thorough, and travelers with stated plans to visit the Palestinian Territories may be questioned closely. Because entry hinges on an electronic pre-travel authorization rather than a traditional visa or pure visa-free walk-up, the best-fit classification is "eta". Travelers should carry passport valid 6+ months with a blank page, proof of onward travel and accommodation, and apply for the ETA-IL at the official PIBA portal (israel-entry.piba.gov.il) at least 72 hours before departure.
VISA REQUIREDTOURISMMULTIPLE ENTRYLast verified 2026-05-30
For guidance only — visa rules change with little notice. Always confirm directly with the destination's embassy or foreign ministry before booking non-refundable travel. Information here applies to ordinary (non-diplomatic) passports unless noted.