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Israel Travel Guide for Filipinos with Philippines Passport

By Kach Umandap August 9th, 2022 Posted in Asia Travel Blog, DIY Travel, VISA Application Guides 114 Comments

“I’m finally fulfilling my Grandmother’s dream,” told myself after we arrived in Israel on  February 28, 2016. Unexpectedly, Israel is an expensive country (Tel Aviv is actually among the most expensive Cities to live in the world), so you really need to have money to spend time exploring the Holy Land. In this article, I’ll be talking about the following topics:

  1. Free Visa for Philippines Passport Holder and Entry Requirements
  2. The Israel Stamp Problem – Visa Issues if you are working as an OFW in the Middle East
  3. MONEY – How much pocket money should you take?
  4. How to get there from the Philippines, Middle East or Europe?
  5. Where to go?  Israel Highlights that you should not miss (Holy Land and Adventure Activities)
  6. DIY Travel vs. getting a Travel Agency in Israel
  7. Food Trip Recommendations
  8. SAFETY ISSUES – Is it safe for Filipinos to Travel to Israel?
  9. HOLY LAND TOURS 2016 for CATHOLICS/ CHRISTIANS

If you have other questions about travel to Israel, comment below and I would be happy to answer you! Watch my Israel trip video below!

Two Monkeys Tours

Free Visa for Philippines Passport Holder to Israel

Having a Philippines passport should let us travel within Israel for up to 90 days Visa Free. However, there are a lot of Filipinos working in Israel (some of them illegally) which is the reason why they are quite strict when it comes to our nationality.

Related Article: Here are 20 other countries where you can go Visa-free

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - visiting the City of David

You have to prepare the following documents for the Israel Immigration:

  • Valid Passport for 6 months (Here’s how to get your Philippines passport)
  • Confirmed Return Flight Ticket or any onward ticket to your next destination
  • Travel Itinerary – I highly suggest you book with a travel agency (directly in Israel to get a cheaper deal, I highly recommend Puzzle Israel)
  • Confirmed Hotel Booking – you can book it online if you are not travelling with a Tour company. You can check our list here for the cheapest hostels/hotels to stay in Israel
  • Cash or Credit Card – you don’t need the printed bank statement but you need to be able to answer them how you can fund the trip. If you already booked your tour, just mention that you already paid the whole cost of the tour and the only money you need is for shopping. (As I told you, Israel is expensive!).
  • Travel Insurance – this is not required by the immigration officials but is necessary in general as always when travelling abroad. Here’s the International Insurance company that we recommend (we’re an affiliate partner of this company)

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Philippines Passport Holder Traveler

The Israel Stamp Problem – Visa Issues if you are working as an OFW in the Middle East

One thing that is discouraging a lot of OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) from visiting Israel despite the fact that flying there is really cheap and close is the worry of getting their passport stamped and being banned from entering any GCC countries or the Middle East. NO PROBLEM anymore because the Immigration office of Israel does not stamp your passport now. Instead they will just give you a BLUE card as your entry permit (your Israeli visa).

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Blue card for Entry stamp
My Philippines Passport and Jonathan’s British passport with our Israel Blue Card (Entry Permit)

You still need to be aware that if you enter Israel via land over the borders of Jordan or Egypt they will stamp your passport so remember to request this to be separate from your passport if possible. Otherwise entry through the airport immediately gives you your visa stamp on a blue card which you must keep in order to leave the country without risk of delay or a fine.

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MONEY – How much pocket money should you take to Israel?

The Israeli currency is called Shekels and the conversion to dollars is currently roughly 1 shekel to 25 cents(USD). While on an organized tour many of the souvenir stops along the way are likely to display their prices in dollars which, of course, will work out more expensive than if you manage to sneak away to a less touristy stall showing prices in Shekels for the same product. Organized tours will usually cover all costs except for lunch, and it’s safe to budget around $20 for this per person per day, as well as $20  tips to cover the driver, tour guide, and hotel staff if not included in your tour package. As long as you have enough money on a debit/credit card to cover this, you will be able to withdraw cash in local currency throughout the trip at ATMs, but I always enter a country with a couple of hundred dollars in varying notes as a back-up.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Tel Aviv
The beautiful Tel Aviv, Israel

If you decide to book everything with a travel agency then you can expect to pay between $2500 to $5000 for a 10 day trip, if you manage to find something cheaper than what you will most probably be one of those tourists wearing the same t-shirt as the rest of your big group of 60 to 100 people taking the same trip. I personally don’t like it but it’s up to you. You don’t want to wait 25 minutes just to get your turn taking a selfie in Jerusalem.

Israel for Filipinos - walking around the old city in Jerusalem

If you decide to do a DIY trip, you need to budget at least $70 to $100/ day to cover your accommodation, transportation, tours, and meals unless you have relatives/ friends there where you can stay for Free, just walking everywhere or using the public transportation. You can do it cheaper but it’s up to you!

IDEAL POCKET MONEY – Bring at least $100/day, especially when asked by the Israeli Immigration. You don’t necessarily have to spend it all but at least have it available!

Related Article: Here’s my 50 Tips on How you Filipinos can travel the world with less money

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How to get to Israel?

There’s no direct flight from the Philippines to Israel yet but I have a few flight suggestions for you to reach Israel without the hassle of transiting and being required another visa. (You can contact me to help you find cheap flights, message me here)

Flight routes suggestions where you won’t be needing to apply for a Transit visa, usually a flight would cost around Php 40,000 above ($1000 and up). Please also note that you can’t fly from any GCC countries because of political reasons (UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar etc)

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Landed at the airport welcome to Israel

If you’re coming from the Philippines:

  • Manila – Thailand – Israel
  • Manila – Hongkong – Israel
  • Manila – Turkey (no need for a transit visa if you will not leave the airport) – Israel
  • Manila – Jordan (you will need a visa) – Israel

If you’re coming from the Middle East:

  • Fly to Istanbul then Israel
  • Fly to Jordan (you will need a visa) then you can travel by land or a short flight

If you’re coming from Europe

There are a lot of direct and cheap flights which are usually less than $200 for roundtrip tickets. So maybe, you could also go to Israel after your Europe trip.

If you’re coming from the USA:

There’s a direct flight from New York and also a 15-hour direct flight with Turkish Airlines via Istanbul from Los Angeles, California.

(If you have any other flight route tips, feel free to comment below)

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Where to go?  Israel Highlights that you should not miss

Aside from the Dead Sea and the Masada tours, there are other cool things to do in Israel for Filipino travelers. (You can also check my 15-day Itinerary in Israel)

Israel for Filipinos - visited the Dead Sea
The beautiful scenery of the Dead Sea

If you’re Catholic then you should go to (in alphabetical order):

  • Bethany- here you’ll find the home of Martha and Mary and of course the Tomb of Lazarus
  • Bethany Beyond the Jordan– The site where Jesus was known to be baptized
  • Bethlehem– one of the most visited sites of Catholic interest where you can visit the Church of the Nativity and of St. Catherine, The Milk Grotto, and Shepherd’s Field
  • Cana– where the Wedding Feast at Cana was held
  • Capernaum– Many of Jesus’s miracles were performed here, a site also home to John the Baptist
  • Ein Kerem– Here you will find both the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Visitation
  • Emmaus– is where Jesus revealed  Himself after the Resurrection
  • Jericho– home to Mount of Temptation  
  • Jerusalem–  undoubtedly one of the most popular religious sites in which Catholics flock to visit the Churches of the Holy Sepulchre and the Sisters of Zion, the Way of the Cross and the Upper Room

Travel to Israel for Filipinos- Jeep tour in Israel

If you like Adventure Activities:

  • Rappelling/Abseiling: Israel’s landscape and geology provide ample opportunity for this sport through a variety of situations like caves, canyons, tunnels and can be combined with other adrenaline-inducing activities. Most popular spots are Gesher B’not Yaacov close to the Jordan River, Keshet Cave at Israel’s highest point and Nakik Hashakar, a deep canyon of volcanic stone within a national park.
Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Rappelling in Israel
Jonathan and I went rappelling in Makhtesh Ramon with Puzzle Israel
  • Hiking: with multiple climates and ecosystems hikers have huge choice in Israel, through deserts, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and canyons and these hikes are best combined with some of the other adventure sports found along the way. Israel is one of the countries with the most marked hiking trails, reaching 6000 miles in total, as well as 67 national parks and 190 nature reserves. Some recommended hikes are The Hexagon Pools, Nachal Darja, and Mount Arbel.
  • Zip-lines: Many zip-lines are to be found along the routes of the above-mentioned hikes, recommended are Gesher B’not Yaacov over the River Jordan, Agam HaNistar and Shilal Cliff in Ben Shemen Forest.
  • Caving/Spelunking: With a rich and spectacular collection of caves throughout which you can explore deep tunnels and narrow crevices leading to many stalactites and stalagmites most famously at Ma’Arat Nikavot, Fox’s Chimney and Abiram Stalactite Cave.
  • Rock Climbing: All levels of climber can scale the routes Israel has to offer all over the country, most famously Keshet Cave, Yonim Cliff, Gitta Cliff (the biggest for climbers) and the Upper Galilee Canyon.
  • Skydiving: Those brave enough to jump from a plane at 11,000ft can make this once in a lifetime leap over the Mediterranean Sea and the Western Galilee. From here you’ll see Haifa Bay, Acco Coast, Achzeiv and Lebanon beaches and in winter, snow-capped Mount Herman.
  • ATVing, Jeep tours: If you’ve exerted yourself enough, take to 4 wheels to explore desert, mountains and forest paths. You can visit the Lebanese Border at the IDF army base, the Naftali Mountains or Central Israel’s Judean desert.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Jeep Tour

  • Rafting/Kayaking: This can be done on two different routes, the first shorter and at a gentler pace along the Jordan and Hatabani Rivers, the second longer option adds small waterfalls to the route for extra adrenaline rush.
  • Water sports: Many activities can be enjoyed in the Kinneret Sea including speed-boating, banana-boating, tubing, water-skiing and wake-boarding as well as pedal-boats, inflatable kayaks and jet skis for hire.
  • Horseback riding: This can be done combined with other activities along the way to take in the views of the Kinneret Panorama and the Sea of Galilee.
Israel Trip for Filipinos - Horseback Riding near the lake where Jesus walked
Horseback Riding in Sea of Galilee with Puzzle Israel
  • Paintball: This fun activity for private groups can be found in North Israel’s forests, the woods above Shilat Cliffs or even in a mock battlefield setting.

If you like Food Trip:

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - eating street food in Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv dining:

  • Nalagaat – the first restaurant of its kind in the world, guests are served in complete darkness by blind waiters in order to sharpen the senses of smell and taste while also creating a connection and interaction between the seeing and hearing community with the deaf/blind community.
  • Blue Sky – a romantic rooftop location with views over Tel Aviv, it serves only vegetarian and fish dishes on its menu by renowned chef Meir Aden. There is also an indoor restaurant.
  • Meat and Eat – the staples of this simple, high-quality concept are meat and Taboon oven-baked bread. Meat and Eat can be found in the airport and is much appreciated for its simplicity and skilfully prepared meat dishes.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - yummy bread

Jerusalem dining:

  • Eucalyptus – one of the most memorable dining experiences you will have, it’s menu is a modern interpretation of biblical cuisine with each dish linking to a bible scene. The ancient stone building does justice to the grandeur of the experience.
  • Lara – this new bistro has a really home-like ambiance and offers an international menu prepared by chef Lior Hafzadi, who has previously worked in Michelin star restaurants
  • Ima – this local restaurant is loved by all from tourists to market workers for its traditional old Jerusalem stone building and the classic dishes sold.
  • Kedma – just outside of the Old City is a new open-air mall and promenade called The Gap and here you will find this Kosher deli offering views across the Jaffa Gate and City of David
  • Hamiznon – meaning ‘cafeteria’ this restaurant. Location within the First Station compound is the station’s first Kosher restaurant and offers wonderful dairy dishes.
  • Tavshilim – housed in a Neo-classical building built-in 1906 the restaurant has been in business since the 40’sty very original recipes and great prices.
Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Yummy breakfast
Yummy Israeli breakfast!

Rosa Pina dining:

  • Meatbalim – since May 2006 this Upper Galilee restaurant has been serving many unique combinations of meat and fish with various tasty dips.

Tibia at Vered Hagali:

This non-Kosher restaurant has homemade sausage and cured meats served in a stunning location looking over the distant Galilee hills.

Acre dining:

  • Uri Buri – this understated Ottoman building close to Acre’s beach offers more than 100 fine Israeli wines to accompany their fish and seafood dishes.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Food in Israel

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DIY Travel vs Travel Agency in Israel

Jonathan and I love to DIY travel as much as we can but we feel differently about doing this in Israel. It is a pretty small country but it’s expensive so you’re way better off getting your tours organized. Elsewhere on our travels, we have always found our own cheaper, more personal way of doing things, seeing the country at our own pace and meeting locals by using public transport and couch surfing and I’m sure we’ll continue to travel like that in the future.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Cycling in Negev Desert
Specialized Dinner set up with Puzzle Israel in Negev Desert

Israel is probably the first country we’ve been to together where we have felt that an organised trip through an agency offers an advantage in every area, and although not an expansive country traveling between the many important religious sites on the must-see list of visiting Catholics takes quite some coordination. Combine this with the cost of travelling or even just living costs makes it extremely expensive to travel as and when you please. Traveling with Puzzle Israel or another travel agency like what we did guarantees you will make it to each destination without complication or risk of extra hidden or factored costs.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos Negev Desert Tour
Off the beaten destinations we visited with Puzzle Israel

If you decide to do DIY travel, you can check all the cheapest backpackers hostels/ budget hotels in Israel here.

How to choose the correct Travel Agency for Israel?

I traveled around Israel for almost two weeks with PUZZLE ISRAEL, unlike the other tour companies with 60 other people and wearing the same t-shirts, Puzzle Israel is mostly customized according to the group or their set schedule but they are expensive and catered to mostly luxury travelers. You can read my tips below on how you can save more money.

Travel to Israel for Filipinos - Cycling in Negev Desert
Fellow travel bloggers enjoying the Negev Desert with Puzzle Israel

There are different tours you should consider when visiting the Holy Land – do you want history? Adventure and hiking? or just follow the path of Jesus Christ?

I personally recommend Puzzle Israel, and they are now organizing some Christian tours after I mentioned to them that Israel is one of the top dream destinations for Catholic Filipinos.

Brown TLV Hotel Israel

You can check out all of their scheduled tours here. You can also mention Kach/ Jonathan of Two Monkeys Travel to get a discount or please contact me at [email protected] so I can help you and your family find a great deal for this dream trip!

SM Monkey Section DividersSAFETY ISSUES – Is it Safe to Travel to Israel?

Travel to Israel for Filipinos syrian border with 4x4 jeep tour
Golan Heights

We traveled to the Gaza Strip and even to Golan Heights, the Syrian border. I felt safe, and we left the country safely!

I always believe that everything happens for a reason, I don’t know what will happen today or tomorrow but as always believe in your gut and buy that TRAVEL INSURANCE. Not just to protect you but for your family if the worst case would happen.

How about visiting the West Bank for Filipinos?

Israel for Filipinos - Visiting the West Bank

Jericho and Bethlehem are both located in the West Bank of the State of Palestine, as Filipinos, we can easily enter there without any problems.

You can either add it to your Israel Tour, DIY by renting a car in Tel Aviv or just take the public transportation. What I highly suggest is that you go on a packaged tour or pre-arrange this side trip before you arrive in Israel.

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HOLY LAND TOURS 2016 for CATHOLICS/ CHRISTIANS

I’m currently arranging a specialized tour with Puzzle Israel for Christians/ Catholics to explore the Holy Land and Biblical & New Testament sites with a twist this June, September, and December. (Sample Itinerary here)

Kibbutz in Israel

On this tour, you will visit the most important and sacred sites for Catholics yet; this will not just be another “Hop-on / hop-off the bus” type of tour. Puzzle Israel is dedicated to offering its travelers an “off-the-beaten-path” experience that gives everyone the opportunity to truly get to know the REAL ISRAEL in addition to all the “must-sees.”

Visiting a Holy Pilgrimage Site in Israel - Filipino Traveler

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Some Tours That You Can Do in Israel (on a budget)

1. Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Jerusalem.  You can book it, here.

2. 7-Night Israel Highlights and Biblical Tour: Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Galilee and Optional Dead Sea Day Trip. You can book it, here.

3. Jerusalem Three Religions Holy City Walking Tour. You can book it, here.
4. Little Town of Bethlehem Half Day Trip from Jerusalem. You can book it, here.

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114 thoughts on “Israel Travel Guide for Filipinos with Philippines Passport

  1. Hi Po, ask lang ako kung ano Ang gagawin if someone invited me to go visit Israel? Should I contact local travel agency here I’m from Northern Mindanao..waiting for your reply..
    thank you po

  2. Hi po plano ko pong pumunta ng esrael ano po gagawin ko..about hotel paano po magbook.?mga magkano po gastus kpag aabot ako ng isng buwan?

  3. Hi, am planning to visit my boyfriend in Israel, by reading the requirements needed to fly there, am worrying if it would be best to book tours and hotel accommodation (will just cancel after) or I will just be honest that my boyfriend will sponsor everything but of course I will still show money and COE, etc.
    thanks! your blogs are really helpful! 🙂

  4. VISA free for Philippines Passport holder:
    1. What are those documents required?
    2. Where to apply for visa free?

  5. I want to take my family with me travel to Holy Land from Philippines
    I am a US citizen , what is the best agency that you recommend and affordable for a group of 10 people?
    Thank you

  6. hello I have a diabetic wound on my leg I am a handicapped can I travel in Israel and can I bring my wheelchair with me , I cant walk very far and stand very long , I wish to visit Israel next year

    1. i like to go to jerusalem and visit the place but i dont like to join a package tour bec i am a PWD (Person With Dis ability or Handicapped ) i walk not normally, thats why my sister and a daughter will travel on our own, for not to be a nuisance to a group, but can you provide me an itenerary/plan how to go around or can u help me just for me to plan

  7. Hi there! I have a question for my upcoming trip to israel tel aviv. Me and my bf is going to attend a wedding there. But he’ll be traveling from US and I’ll meet him there. Is it safe to tell the immigration that I’ll be meeting my bf there? Or will they doubt that since I am a filipino. I hope you could answer my question. Thank you.

  8. Hello po. Regarding po sa pagpasok at paglabas ng West Bank galing Israel, sa airport ng TLV pag paalis na ng bansa, tatanungin po ba kayo kung anong ginawa dun habang nasa trip? Balak ko pong pumuntang Israel from LA next year at siguradong mapupuntahan yan karamihan. Salamat po.

  9. Hello Dear,
    I hope you’re having a wonderful day. Can I just kindly ask you regarding flying from Dubai to Turkey, do we need to provide any Turkey visa upon arriving to their airport (Turkey)? Thanks in advance.

  10. what is the possible question in Israel Immigration for a Philippine Passport holder,I am planning to visit Israel for 5 days on September 7 to 11..I am working here in Japan..Thank you

  11. Hi ma’am. I am currently working in Dubai. I wanna know how can I travel to Israel which route is the fastest?. And is there any posibility that the immigration from Israel wont allow me to go back to dubai?
    Since they are not in good terms. Someone told me that if i visit Israel i cant go back to dubai anymore its that true? I wanna make sure. Thanks in advance for your reply

      1. Hi Maam,

        Kung via Turkey may idea po ba kayo pano?

        Im in Qatar, plan ko rin mag travel to Israel.

        Thanks

  12. hello. i am a filipino working in qatar and plannig to visit israel. is it 100% sure that there will be no problem going to and from israel? thank you so much and more power to twomonkeystravel.

  13. Hi, just to double check. I am working in Dubai and I will be traveling to israel via Turkey. I am on a DIY tour with my girlfriend whose working in Israel. We are planning to fly together from Israel to the Philippines. Will there be any issue for me to fly back home directly from israel?

    Thanks in advance for any advise.

  14. Good afternoon..im planning to travel in Israel and this is my first time to travel out of the country. What should i need. ?

  15. What agency here in Philippines offer cheap tours to Holy Land. Please help.Im willing to travel this year with my husband.

  16. Hello Kach,

    A small advise from you regarding my plan to visit Israel this coming June 2019. Since I’m working at Kurdistan-Iraq, I will fly from Erbil to Istanbul, Tel Aviv then Manila. Do I need a package tour and hotel bookings prior to enter Israel? My plan is to DIY experience and I have the flights ticket available from Erbil-Istanbul-Tel Aviv and Manila. I have also pocket or show money to bring as well. Appreciate if you could advise which hotel is best for backpackers.

  17. Hello po. Kailangan po bang my certificate po ng caregiving bago makapunta jan sa Israel kahit graduate po ng 4 year course? Magkano po ang magagastos kung sakali pong mag apply po sa Israel? Salamat po sa makakasagot

  18. hi…this is very helpful for me…just wondering because I am here in qatar working and I have plan to go in israel but i am a filipina..do I need to get a visa still if I will go to israel from qatar?thank you

  19. hi kach 🙂 i found this blogg helpful coz we are planning to go on a vacation this coming hajj .planned route is from ksa to jordan then jordan to jerusalem. DIY lng kmi sa jordan but is it possible also n mag diy nlng din kmi sa israel kht for 2 days lng ?. coz we are on a budget .. hndi ba magging problem if wala kmi tour agency sa israel ?. or is it enough n meron kming hotel bookings lng?. thanks in advance miss kach

    1. hello po, natuloy po ba kayo?Nagpplan din po ako this coming september gusto ko din diy lahat? i have the same situation. I will be coming from tabuk,KSA then land border to Jordan tapos land border ulit to Israel. How was your border crossing to Israel po?

  20. I just want to travel and see Israel on my way home to the Philippines. However, my passport will expire on October 2018. Can I still be a tourist for 10 days? I am travelling with my husband and I am going back to the Philippines to renew my passport. I work in an international organization, so no worry of having the interest for looking for job or anything.

  21. Hi, Kach…presently, we are working at Qatar with a residence permit…we are planning to go to Jerusalem this last week of May 2018 through Jordan by land crossing the Allenby Border…we already applied for a Jordanian visa…how about Israel? Do we need to get an Israeli visa? Would you know the procedure in getting an Israeli Visa? Somebody here in Qatar told us that we need an Israeli visa and we can contact a travel agency in Jordan to fix our visa…we really do not know if this is true…Thank you so much.

    1. hi arnel dogma… natuloy b kau ng trip sa israel from jordan ?… any reccomendation po ? nag DIY lng b kau from jordan to israel or u have travel agency sa israel? thanks

  22. Hello Ms Kath, I’ll be in Israel next week. I’m planning to visit Bethlehem and Jericho. These two places are in West bank. Are we, Filipinos, allowed to enter without visa the Palestinian teritorries?

  23. Good Day,I am a Filipino and currently working here in Bangkok I am planning to travel in Israel. Do I need to get a visa from Israel Embassy..and can you suggest cheaper travel agency to assist me.Thanks And God bless.

  24. Hi! I’m currently a tourist here in Canada. I’m planning to go to Israel on the month of May to process my work permit here in Canada. Is it possible to process it in Canadian embassy while as a tourist only? I would like to “hit two birds with one stone”, so I chose Israel.
    And I decided to stay up to 7 weeks to finalize my work permit. How much do i need in US dollar for transportation and dinner only. I already have a place to stay.

  25. Hello there,

    I am currently helping my dad plan a trip for my Grandmother. This time she wants to do some sort of “pilgrimage” to the holy land. She is an elderly (93 yrs old) and coming from the Philippines. I think this might be her last “hoorah” (last thing left on her bucket list). I am a bit leery about the traveling she will have to endure. Do you have any advise regarding the elderly traveling to Israel. Any required documentation (e.g bill of health, or any other docs needed, etc) and what airlines should I look into? Would it better to do a group travel or DIY with an elderly? My dad is leaning towards DIY (renting a car, since she is also wheelchair bound). Please let me know your thoughts. Like I said, I feel a bit concerned, but my father is adamant to make this “pilgrimage” a reality. Thank you!

  26. HI,
    My girlfriend is working at Israel and planning to visit her this year 2018. Do I need to request a sponsor letter from her?

  27. Im travelling to Israel this March to visit my Israeli boyfriend, We want to maximise the 90days allowable stay so we get a tourist permit from Israel immigration which they paid cash bonds for almost half M pesos, everything was paid by my boyfriend. I have the original copy of permit and attached is his notarized letter of support. I read from many post that it should be authenticated by the Phil. Embassy there? I dont think we have much time to do it, is it really necessary? Is there anything else I need to secure to avoid being offloaded? I am really worried as I dont want his money and effort put into waste.

    I have company ID, ITR, COE, Bank Cert & Return ticket. I can also show our pictures together with family since he already visited me here.

    Your advice is much appreciated. Thank you!

    1. This is the first time I heard about paying bond and other stuff. you’re Philippines passport and just like me, it’s visa-free for us. The only issue is at the Philippines Immigration but if you’re not planning to do illegal then why bother and worry?

  28. Hi Kach,

    Thank you for sharing the guide, planning to travel to holy land in Jerusalem but will be landed 1st in Jordan. As you stated in blog that from Jordan to Israel it needs a visa but I was told that a Filipino that has a residence visa in UAE the visa is upon on arrival in Jordan so, if I got a visa in Jordan immigration I can freely go in Holy land?

  29. Hi Kach, I would just like to clarify, our flight is from Manila-BKK-Amman-Tel Aviv via Royal Jordanian and you said visa is needed in Jordan, even if it’s just a 1 hour 50 minutes lay over and will not go out of the airport they still require to pay for a visa?

  30. Hi Kach,
    It really helped a lot. Thank you very much.
    I read some of the inqueries from our kababayans. There is one instance that she missed her plane. Does this mean that phil.immigration officer will ask lot of questions if you are traveling as a tourist?
    I have an existing US Visa. Been to UK and Europe. My friend who is living in tel aviv would like to invite me together with her mother and sister. My questions: is it ok not to book hotel because we are going to stay in their house? Is it ok to stay for 2months which I usually do for vacation?
    I will be gratefull for any additional info you may share with me.
    Thanks in advance

  31. Hi kach…I’m an ofw here in hong kong and I’m planning to have vacation in Israel for at least 5 days this coming 2018 I don’t like have the group to travel and I have a friend their willing to sponsor me…what are the requirements I need to prepare.? Thanks I hope u can help me.

  32. Hi Kach! I and my fiance planned to visit Israel from October 28 to Nov. 5 this year. He is not from Israel, he is from Germany and we will just meet inside in Ben Gurion Airport. He is departing from Frankfurt going to Ben Gurion and I, from Cebu to Hongkong then Hongkong to Israel. I dont have work but im college student here in Cebu. Ive read from your blog what are those documents needed prior of arrival in Ben Gurion airport. Im considering that immigration security/officer might ask me what is my job here in Philippines, unfortunately i cant present any but im a college student here. Is it okay to present my school id and study load which prove that im enrolled for the semester of november? Our planned is that he must be there in Ben Gurion airport maybe 1 or 2hrs before our aircraft from Hongkong will arrive there so that we can go together to the immigration passport control. Also, you stated above that i must present a return ticket with a flight onward. Im confused about that, we dont have onward flight since we will be staying in israel for 8days. Will we get a problem about that? Just to be sure, my fiance will send me an invitation letter for few holidays in Israel stating that he will pay all the costs incurred during our stay there and just to make it sure, i will bring pocket money and printed bank statement as maybe the immigration ask for it. I am soo much afraid that they will not let met in the country. Your advice is really much appreciated 🙂

    1. Let us know how was your experience. My own experience was: troubles only in Philippines immigration. Seems they don’t like other travelers than OFW. I was questioned for more than 1 hour, until my flight to HKG flew away. When they saw it, they just told: is OK, you can go. But airplane was gone. I should buy in airport new ticket (this MNL-HKG ticket from airport office for same day flight cost me more than rest of trip to TLV). I was lucky i catch my connecting flight in HKG, but my plan make city tour in HKG was ruined. Talk about protection Filipino travelers is excuse, they just hate if any Filipino wants travel independently.Only OFW are wanted as they bring back money.

  33. Hi kach. Few questions lng, may invitation letter ako from galing sa fiance ng mom ko may roundtrip ticket n ko so from September to January stay ko since citizen na rin mother ko sa Israel. Aside from passport/ticket/funds and letter what else do i need to bring? Need pa ba nila ng proof na may work ako dito sa pinas? I’m planning to resign din kasi sana before ako magbakasyon sa mother ko. I need ur advice. Thanks in advance.

  34. Hi Kach,

    I called both the Jordan Consulate and Royal Jordanian and they said that if I transit in Amman airport, those with Philippine passport can do it for free, provided that it is within 24 hours and you have an onwards ticket whilst not leaving the transit area 🙂

  35. Hi Kach! Really loved this post as I am planning to go to Israel as well. Just want to clarify though about transiting via Amman airport in Jordan. Planning to book kasi a flight via Royal Jordanian and they said, even the consulate here in Manila, that I can transit there provided it is less than 24 hours and I have an onwards destination.

    1. Hi! We’re going to Israel on July 3 and we also booked Royal Jordanian. We have an hour transit in Amman as well. I just want to clarify, we can transit in Amman as long as it is less than 24 hours, right? Nakita ko lang kasi ngayon yung post na’to and kinabahan ako kasi booked na kami.

      1. Yup, I clarified it with both the consulate and Royal Jordanian and they said ok lang daw, basta of course di ka eexit ng airport. Same lang din, pero i verified it before booking just to be sure. Royal Jordanian provided the lowest fare to Israel. Almost 15k ang difference

    2. Hello miss beautigul kabayan,your information is very reliable indeed!’ thank you i would like to have a chat with you ..asap if only you can help me ..im expat in mddke east and im travelling to egypt on Oct 18,(2 country visit for 14 days only) and i want to cross the Taba border on Oct.20 to get to Israel atleast a week by tour group package…aside from passport and confirmation note from tour group..do i need any papers maybe neede in immigratioj along the border,i dont have booked hotel or letter if sponsor or roundtrip ticket..because i will travel by land..i just dont want to get to imigration Nganga.kc hde alam me papeles p palang kelangan..thank you for reply.

      1. I tried get from Israel to Egypt via Taba Border Cross with Philippine passport. Although I proof I will stay in free zone of Taba only, where almost all nationalities can stay visa free, I was denied by Egypt immigration, because of Philippine passport. Immigration Officials in Egypt border was kind, they even tried call to Cairo Main Immigration Office if any exception possible. They explained me, it is because of illegal work of our OFW. Next time I should pre-arrange visa to Egypt in advance in their Embassy.

  36. Hi Kach, Many thank sa advice and itinerary specially sa mga personal touch na ni mention mo sa blog mo.. Will definitely follow all your adventures.

  37. Hi Kach, Ex-abroad po kasi ako balak naming bumisita sa Israel ng kapatid ko pero may tatak ng Lebanon yung passport ko… makakapasok po ba ako oh kaialangan kong i renew yung passport ko o talagang wala na akong chance makapasok sa Israel kahit i renew ko yung passport ko…
    Thanks in Advance…

    1. I think okay lang pero since you worked in Lebanon, I suggest you renew your passport. Different kasi ung you only went there to visit eh, kapag ex-abroad ka esp middle east they (the immigration) might not believe na tourist lang intention mo. Renew it na lang so walang issue!

      1. Hi kacha…I’m a domestic helper here in hong kong and my husband want me to travel in Israel for at least 5 days anung mga requirements ang kailangan para maka travel ako. This coming April or may 2018 po sana ang plano namin after renewing my contract. Salamat sana masagot mo ung tanung ko sorry dto na ako nag comment.thank u…

  38. Hello good evening!

    I just want to ask if your going to visit Israel, and then you have a boyfriend who is an israeli national. Do i need to book and make a iterinary for that trip? Or he can just make a visitation letter allowing me to visit him..

    Hopefully you will answer my question.
    Thank You

    1. Hello! I think your boyfriend has to make a letter saying that he is going to sponsor you why you are staying here in israel. Your ticket should be a roundtrip ticket. It is better if he can show some bank statements that he can actually fund your stay in israel. The immigration will ask how much money you have, so better also to bring money with you.

    2. hi ask ko lang kung natuloy ka pumuntang israel, may boyfriend din kasi akong israelli na gusto akong iinvite. ano bang mga requirements ang kailangan. thank you!!!

  39. mabuhay Kach! im planing to backpack around the world for 2018 already doing my research and reservations but i badly need some of your wisdom and input on this 🙂 – A.) land travel from egypt to israel. B.) israel to turkey passing through syria. any tips and advice on this would be great. maraming salamat!

  40. Hi kach..nice to read your informative “article”,we’re planning to visit Israel this hajj 2017 as DIY trip but having second thoughts now because of what you mentioned..hmmm..gosh mga ilang tao po ba Ang klangan Sa Puzzle for them to accommodate us or let’s say for us to enjoy also..I’m ofw here in ksa.thanks.

  41. Hi im philippine nandito po ako sa jordan nag tratrabaho bilang DH 7yrs na po ..gusto ko po sana makapunta sa israel kasi malapit lang dito at gustong magtrabaho..can i have chance and how???

  42. Thank you kach!! Grabe eto yung mga sagot na hinahanap ko.. sobrang helpful this article.. kudos! Sige ipon muna. Medyo expensive and complex pala ang Israel.. hays akala ko hassle free and cheaper since I am already here in UAE. Thank you again Kach! Zillion thanks!

  43. hi kabayan,

    im Mark OFW here in dammam… i heard pag nag israel ang filipino galing sa GCC .. magiging black listed na .. im planning to backpacking in israel maybe 2018 or 19 ..

    1. Mark, nasagot ko na yang tanong mo sa article sa taas. Hindi nagstamp ng passport sa israel so hindi ka mablacklist sa Saudi. Pakibasa po ulit ng article kasi nandun ung details na hinahanap mo.

      1. Hi Kach, Do you have any other travel agency to recommend as I can’t reach Puzzle Israel through the number provided on their website. We will be travelling this June. Appreciate your reply. Thanks!

      2. Hi Pretty Kach,

        ask ko lang regarding this Special Power of Attorney (SPA) executed by the owner in the Philippine Embassy, Tel Aviv, Israel ..medyo confused lang sa requirements for authentication ng documents d ko magets kelangan ko pa ba ng SPA If ako naman ang mag file ng documents sa Israel manila Embassy.san kaya pede kumuha nyan,,
        hope mapansin mo messge ko..thank you so much
        God Bless

  44. Hi there – I want to cross over to Petra which I believe is within Jordan. Since I have a PH passport, I have no idea how to get the visa. I’m a Long term resident in Singapore and I have a month to do this. Would you know how to obtain this visa? I want to stay overnight in Petra as well if I get the chance.

  45. Hi! I’m FILIPINO OFW here in Singapore I’m planning to go there in Israel for 1 wk Vacation. Do you have any information? Thank you

  46. Hi Kach! Thank you for all the information you posted here! It is so helpful. I am planning to go to Israel on January and then cross to Palestine. Do you have any information though about crossing to Palestine? My boyfriend is a Palestinian living in Hebron. He wanted me to meet his family but I worry if I would have any problems in going there? Any ideas? Thank you again!

  47. Hello there, me and my sister are planning a trip to Tel Aviv this First week of November 2016… We are dual citizens, Filipino and American… We don’t like tours because we hate to wake up earl in the morning… Hehehe… Can we rent a car in Tel Aviv and just drive around the city? Are the cars the same in the Philippines and US? UK, Australia cars are different… Another thing, we will just buy a plane ticket then rent a car in the airport to find a nice hotel and then drive around the city and sacred places… What do you think? Because we always do this in America…

    1. Yes the cars are like in the USA and yes you can drive if you have the driver’s license! =) You could do a DIY but I suggest book a hotel for your first 2 nights because the immigration would ask you! =)

  48. Hi Kach,

    Thanks for an informative write-up.
    I initially thought it was hard but you made it sound so simple. Since it’s my first time traveling abroad, I’d appreciate all the help I can get. Given your expertise and experience, I think you’d be the perfect help I need. I’d appreciate if you can help clarify the below. Hoping for your feedback.
    – Can you recommend an airline where I can book a cheap flight with minimal layovers?
    Been checking a lot of sites and all of them have 2 layovers at the minimum.
    – I’m planning to go there around end of October this year to visit my boyfriend. Was hoping to stay for 3 weeks bec they have a 90 day visa free stay anyway. But someone told me that even with all the required documents ready, there’s still a chance that I’d not be allowed to enter. Can you recommend additional documents that I can bring? You think if I have an invitation from my boyfriend, I’d have better chances of ensuring enrty?

    1. Turkish Airlines has minimum layover. Additional documents should include your itinerary, details of your boyfriend cuz they’ll ask you if who you will visit, money or printed bank statement and be smart in answering the immigration questions! Thanks!

    2. Hi Chris! how did your trip go? I’m planning to go to Israel to visit a friend’s family too. Hopefully next year.

  49. Ma’am how it I’m in Egypt and I want to work there and wat is the requirements I Ned.thanks

    1. Hello! I would suggest for you to go home to the Philippines and apply in the agencies accredited by POEA to recruit Filipino workers for Israel like Kenmore Agency, CPM Agency. Just be ready for the outrageous placement fee (around $8000).

  50. i am a filipino i like to work in israel but my wife say is not allow to work the husband because she already there .

    1. I came across this blog and saw your comment/question. Let me answer your question here with due respect to the blogger. No , you are not allowed to work here in Israel if your wife is here with the very reason that the government of Israel wont allow foreign workers to build a family in here .

  51. Hi I’m planning to go there to have vacation. I’m in dubai now which route I need to go ? And do they ask a lot questions before entering Israel?

  52. thank you for your response…yes i have pocket money with me…and money in my debit card also.

  53. hi…im kim. imtraveling to Israel nxt month…my route would be manila to hk – frankfurt – tel aviv…some of my frnds told me I dnt need transit visa since Im not leaving the airport in frankfurt. I also have a frnd that will cover all expenses during my travel there for a month. I will stay in his house in Jerusalem. Im also a teansgender woman but ofcourse my passport still says “male” ….I hve cash and money in my debit card aswell…so I guess I wanna know if there will be a problem for me entering the country. thanx…I love ur blogs by the way ?

    1. I think Israel is a really open country! As long as you will not work illegally and you have a money to show the immigration (at least $100/ day) then you’ll be okay. I know your friend will pay and support you there, you need to get all of his contact details and everything when the immigration would ask you about it but please be ready and have some money with you too.

  54. Such a thorough and helpful post! Even though I’m not Philippino it’s helpful to know these things when visiting! I actually didn’t realise you needed a visa to go to Isreal! It’s actually one place I’ve never thought of visiting but your pictures are gorgeous and now I’m intrigued!

  55. Great pics! You look like you had a great time! I’m not a Filipino but your post is very informative, i think everyone can apply your recommendations and tips from ‘Where to go?’ and ‘If you like a Food trip’ 🙂

  56. Wow. Israel is very beautiful. What I like in this place is its architecture. And this post of yours is very helpful for those Filipinos who are planning to visit the place.

  57. Israel is a small country like the Netherlands. Lovely to see how much you enjoyed it. I would like to visit this one time because of religious reasons. I am a little bit afraid of the culture too. Did you feel safe all the time?

  58. What an extensive guy. It’s a good thing that the visa is free, one less expense to worry about. I’d love to go to Israel someday.

  59. I am so impressed with how thorough you are with your information. I had never thought of traveling to Israel unless it was on a tour but now I feel like I have so much information. I love how you went through each category and gave suggestions on where to go and what to eat. This was an amazing resource for all travelers!

  60. I’m not sure that I’ve ever been to this site before, but it is lovely!! I love when travel bloggers get as detailed as this in their shares. Not only does it inspire me, but it gives me an idea of what to expect in certain places and that is super helpful!!

  61. This is a very detailed post on the what to do and eat at Israel. You have covered everything from places to visit, things to do, food to eat and even how much money to bring. I like how you presented everything. Even the safety issues are included.

  62. I still have friends in Israel and I have learned so much from them during the time they were in the Philippines. It’s nice to see the photos you posted and clearly, there is much to see even in a small country.

  63. Hi kach,
    I am working in Saudi Arabia. I wanna know how can I travel from here. I am planning to take my vacation on October this year. I want to take a trip like from ksa-Israel-Phils then back to ksa. Would it be ideal this way?

    1. yes, there’s a direct flight with Turkish Airlines to Istanbul from Manila! The only issue, the immigration officials in PHL will ask for your return flight ticket.

  64. Hi Kach! I’m flying to Tel Aviv from Istanbul and plan to stay 15 days in Israel then I will fly to New York right after.
    When you say confirmed return tickets it doesn’t have to be return to Manila right? I hope an onward ticket will suffice. I am traveling for a year or two and Israel is the 7th country on my itinerary so I cannot produce a ticket back to PH. I hope that the immigration officer in tel aviv will let me in if I show him my onward flight to NY & US Visa?

    Thanks for your help!

      1. Hi mam Akira gusto Po ko Sana mag travel sa Kurdistan my one week. Kaya Lang Po Hindi ko Alam Kung saan mag hanap Ng travel bench. At makakuha Ng Visa permit or boarding past to travel erbi Iraqi Kurdistan

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.