Slovak and Israeli citizens have long enjoyed a good relationship, with mutual trust and respect on both sides. Consequently, it was no surprise when Slovakia implemented the ETIAS (EU Travel Information and Authorization System) on May 25th, 2017.
ETIAS is an important step in building closer ties between the EU and its member states, as well as strengthening security along the EU’s external borders.
This blog post will introduce you to Slovakia’s ETIAS system, explain what it entails for Israelis, and dispel some of the myths about it. We hope that this article will help make your trip to Slovakia a smooth one!
Applying For Slovakia ETIAS From Israel
If you are a citizen of Israel, you can apply for an Slovakia ETIAS visa at the Israeli embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process is fairly straightforward, and typically requires only a valid passport and two recent photographs. Once you have completed the application, the embassy or consulate will send you a confirmation letter which will include information on the processing time and cost. If everything goes according to plan, your visa will be ready for pick-up within three weeks.
Reasons You Should Get An Slovakia ETIAS
Given that Slovakia is a member of the European Union (EU), Israeli citizens have access to the Schengen area, which allows for reduced border checks when travelling within the EU. Furthermore, Slovakia has signed and ratified the Schengen Agreement, making it one of the 28 EU member states to do so.
Israeli citizens can travel to Slovakia without a visa if they hold a valid passport from Israel and a return ticket. However, if you are travelling as part of a group of five or more people, you will need to apply for a visa in advance.
Slovakia is yet another safe destination for Israelis. The country has an above-average safety rating according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Travel & Security Report 2018 and has never been ranked among the top ten most dangerous countries in the world for tourists.
In addition to its safety record, Slovakia is also notable for its rich culture. The country has many beautiful castles and palaces, as well as several world-renowned museums. Although Israelis aren’t allowed to purchase property in Slovakia, they can visit without any restrictions.
Lastly, Israeli citizens can get legal assistance in Slovakia if they need it. The country has an active Bar Association that provides assistance to nationals in legal matters.
Things To Consider Before Coming To Slovakia
When considering a trip to Slovakia, it’s important to remember that the country is not visa-exempt for citizens of Israel. As of October 1, 2017, citizens of Israel must apply for a visa in advance if they wish to travel to Slovakia for tourism or business purposes.
If you do not have an EU/EEA passport, you will also need a visa. For more information on visas, please visit the Slovak Embassy or nearest Swiss embassy.
Slovakia ETIAS For Citizens Of Israel – FAQ
As of 02/07/2019, Slovak citizens are able to apply for an ETIAS visa at the Slovak Embassy in Tel Aviv. Documents required for the application process include a valid passport, a valid visa for Slovakia, and a photo-identity document. Applicants will also have to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover the length of their stay in Israel, as well as health insurance coverage.
Citizens of Israel who are not citizens of any other EU or EEA country are not eligible to apply for an ETIAS visa. In order to be issued an ETIAS permit, applicants must first obtain a tourist visa at their point of entry into Slovakia. Once they have obtained this visa, they can then apply for an ETIAS permit at the Slovak Embassy in Tel Aviv. Applicants must present all required documents at the time of application, and be sure to bring their passport, visa stamp(s), photograph ID card (if available), and proof of sufficient funds (in cash or international currency).
The ETIAS visa allows citizens of Israel access to Slovakia for a period of 90 days. During this time, they are permitted to stay in Slovakia for up to 30 days per month and may use all public transport systems and utilities without needing to obtain prior approval from the Transportation Authority. Additionally, citizens of Israel are not allowed to work in Slovakia during their visit, but they are allowed to study there if they have attained a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Conclusion
Israel is a European Union Member State and, as such, is subject to all of the EU’s common policies and regulations. As a result, Israeli citizens are able to apply for visas to travel to the bloc’s member states without having to show any additional documentation.
Slovakia is one of the 26 EU countries which recognise Israel and currently offers an ETIAS visa for citizens of Israel. The visa allows Israeli citizens to visit Slovakia for up to 90 days without having to obtain a visa from the Immigration Office.
The ETIAS visa is valid for residents of Israel and can be used to enter any of the 26 EU countries which have recognised Israel. Once in Slovakia, Israeli citizens will be able to enjoy all of the same rights and benefits as any other Slovak citizen.