The “Electronic Gate Pass” is a modern technological system providing the tourist with the credentials necessary to prove his visa status. This entry pass/card/slip replaces the system whereby passports were stamped. It includes the principle details of the traveler as in the first page of the passport. The card will also depict the date of arrival and visa information. At the airport, this card allows the traveler to exit the arrival terminal without further delays.

This pass/card is an official form of identification while in Israel. All travelers must keep this pass at hand at all times as proof of their visa status. At the airport and designated Land Crossings, this card allows the traveler to exit the arrival terminal and continue to the luggage pickup area. At hotels, this pass allows the traveler to avoid VAT payment (for travelers holding foreign passports only). Without it, there is no proof of tourist/visa status and VAT will be charged in accordance to the law.

The VAT (value added tax) in Israel is currently 17% and is already included in most prices of the goods purchased in Israel.  There is no VAT charged for tourists at hotels in Israel (you will be required to present your entry slip in order to prove tourist status). In addition, VAT is waived for tourists and they can receive a refund of VAT on purchases they made when departing the country.

VAT is added on most of the items tourists buy while visiting Israel. The current VAT in Israel is 17%. Tourists can apply for the refund of that extra tax money before leaving the country.

What qualifies for a VAT Refund:

  • Store that participates in this refund.
  • Purchase must have cost more than 400 NIS.
  • At the time of purchase, request a special tax-refund invoice from the store. This invoice, along with the original receipt, is necessary when applying for the refund.
  • The goods must be unused and intended for personal use o
  • Items cannot be food, drinks or tobacco.

 

Where to get a VAT refund:

  • Ben Gurion Airport (Terminal 3)
  • Ramon Airport (near Eilat)
  • Seaports: Ashdod, Eilat, Haifa
  • Arava Border Crossing between Israel and Jordan

You may be required to present the items at the refund counter.

Please note: once you have left Israel and then returned to it (for example, to visit Jordan), you will no longer be eligible for a VAT refund.

For comprehensive details on the VAT refund process, refer to the Israel Tax Authority's official guide.