The Portugal Electronic Identity Authority (ETIAS) was launched on January 1, 2018, to help citizens of Israel travel in the European Union (EU) and other Schengen Area countries. ETIAS is an electronic identity system that can be used for travel within the EU and other Schengen Area countries.
ETIAS is separate from the yellow card system. For more information on the yellow card system, please see this article: Portugal Launches New Travel Document—the ETIAS.
Applying For Portugal ETIAS From Israel
Those with a valid foreign passport and Israeli citizenship can apply for an ETIAS visa to travel to Portugal. The application process is relatively easy, and there are no special requirements for applicants other than being able to provide documentation that proves your citizenship and passport validity. Applicants will need to submit a completed form DS-160, Fee Payment Form, and return it along with the required documents to the Portuguese embassy or consulate. Photocopies of all required documents will also be accepted. Applicants should be aware that the ETIAS visa must be used within 30 days of issuance, and cannot be used for tourist purposes.
Reasons You Should Get An Portugal ETIAS
Israel is a country in the European Union and has an agreement with the EU that allows Israeli citizens to travel to other member states without a visa. However, for citizens of Israel, traveling to Portugal needs special permission from the Portuguese government.
The Portugal ETIAS is a new travel visa that was introduced in January 2018. The visa is only available to citizens of countries that have an agreement with Portugal allowing them to travel without a visa. The eligibility requirements for the Portugal ETIAS are similar to those of the Portuguese tourist visa, which permits tourists to stay up to 90 days in Portugal and use its public services.
The Portugal ETIAS has two different versions: a regular version and a senior version. The regular version is available for citizens of 80 countries, and the senior version is available for citizens of 70 countries. The only difference between the two versions is that the senior version requires additional paperwork, including an authenticated letter from your embassy or consulate verifying your citizenship.
The Portugal ETIAS is not available online, and you cannot apply for it using a computer. You must visit a Portuguese consulate or embassy to apply for the visa. The Portugal ETIAS process takes about four hours, and you will need to provide your passport information, your finger prints, and your valid travel document(s). You will also need to pay the application fee.
Things To Consider Before Coming To Portugal
Travelers should consider the following before coming to Portugal:
- Residents of Israel must have a valid visa.
- Check the latest visa requirements at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your country.
- Travel Insurance is mandatory.
- Bring proof of health insurance coverage.
- Portuguese Lira is the currency in Portugal.
- The locals enjoy a laid-back lifestyle and are typically very hospitable. Make sure to dress comfortably and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches in public.
- Portugal has great weather all year long, but summertime can be extremely hot and humid. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Portuguese drivers can be aggressive on the roads, so beware. Use common sense when driving and always keep a lookout for other drivers.
- Portuguese language is not difficult to learn, but some words may have different translations depending on how they’re spelled. Make sure to study up before arriving in Portugal!
Portugal ETIAS For Citizens Of Israel – FAQ
What is the Portugal ETIAS for citizens of Israel?
The Portugal ETIAS for citizens of Israel is an electronic travel authorization (ETA) system which allows traveling to Portugal for tourist purposes without having to obtain a visa. The ETA system is based on a biometric identification system and it is valid for three months. Citizens of Israel who wish to travel to Portugal must apply for an ETA through the Portugal Embassy in Tel Aviv.
How can I apply for an ETA through the Portugal Embassy in Tel Aviv?
There is no special application process required to obtain an ETA through the Portugal Embassy in Tel Aviv. Citizens of Israel who wish to travel to Portugal must simply visit the embassy, provide proof of identity and citizenship, and submit an application form. Applications can be submitted in person or by mail. Applicants are required to pay a fee.
Once I have received my ETA, how can I travel to Portugal?
CTPs (company visas) are not required for travelers who hold an ETA. Instead, travelers are required to hold a valid passport and airline ticket. Tourist visas may also be required if you will be staying in more than 90 days in Portugal.
Conclusion
Portugal has announced that it will recognize Israeli citizens as eligible for ETIAS residency permits. This move is likely to provide much-needed relief to Israelis living in Portugal, who have been facing increased scrutiny and restrictions from authorities.
Israel and Portugal have had a special relationship since Portugal’s establishment in 1975. The countries have strong trade ties and share strong political and cultural ties. Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa visited Israel in May 2017 and pledged to support Israeli economic development.
This recognition of Israeli citizens as ETIAS residents is a positive step forward in the bilateral relationship between Portugal and Israel. It provides relief to Israelis living in Portugal who have been struggling with increased scrutiny and restrictions from authorities. Additionally, it strengthens the relationship between these two important allies, which is essential for furthering economic growth and security cooperation between the two countries.