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U.S. Visas > U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country > Israel, Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 52 Months |
| E-2 2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 41 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 41 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Palestinian Authority
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | ▲ | ▲ | ▲ |
| A-2 | ▲ | ▲ | ▲ |
| A-3 1 | ▲ | ▲ | ▲ |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| C-3 | ▲ | ▲ | ▲ |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-1 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2C | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | ▲ | ▲ | ▲ |
| G-2 | ▲ | ▲ | ▲ |
| G-3 ◉ | None ◉ | Multiple ◉ | 60 Months ◉ |
| G-4 | None ■ | Multiple ■ | 60 Months ■ |
| G-5 ◉ | None ◉ | Multiple ◉ | 60 Months ◉ |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | One | 1 Month |
| U-2 | None | One | 1 Month |
| U-3 | None | One | 1 Month |
| U-4 | None | One | 1 Month |
| U-5 | None | One | 1 Month |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
▲. Diplomatic relations not in force. The Department has determined that the Palestinian Authority (PA) is a competent authority for passport-issuing purposes as defined in INA 101(a)(30), but the U.S. does not recognize the PA as a "foreign government". Visa applications for categories A-1, A-2, A-3, C-3, G-1, and G-2 made by bearers of Palestinian Authority Passports must be submitted to the Department for an advisory opinion. Requests should be slugged for CA/VO/L/A and NEA/IPA.
◉. G-3 and G-5 visas may be issued to bearers of Palestinian Authority documents who are employed by foreign governments (i.e. not the Palestinian Authority), or who are the immediate family members, attendants or personal employees of accredited officials of foreign governments. Qualified applicants should be issued visas on Form OF-232 following the procedures indicated in 22 CFR 41.113(b).
■. G-4 visas may be issued to qualified applicants directly in their Palestinian Authority Passports.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident or national of a country without a treaty. *When the spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status and are themselves a national of a country that does not have a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principal alien’s country of nationality should be used. **Spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 visa principal applicant, where the spouse and children are also nationals of a country that has a treaty with the United States – the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the spouse and children’s country of nationality should be used.
*Example 1: John Doe is a national of Country A that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country B which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as John Doe, the principal visa holder.
**Example 2: Mike Doe is a national of Country Y that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. however his wife and child are nationals of Country Z that also has a treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the reciprocity issued to nationals of Country Z.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi, Libyan, Somalian, Sudanese, Syrian or Yemeni nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
Israel
Civil documents for Israel are generally available, though some records were destroyed in 1948 or earlier.
Fees may be charged for a particular document listed below. It is the applicant's responsibility to contact the appropriate issuing authority to obtain specific information about documents, including mailing addresses and fee requirements.
The Palestinian Authority (West Bank and Gaza)
At various times during the twentieth century, the West Bank and Gaza were administered under several different authorities; therefore, the issuing authority for civil documents depends on both the time and location of the life event being documented.
The West Bank and Gaza are subject to a complex set of governing arrangements involving Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Holders of Palestinian Authority (PA) travel documents will generally present PA civil documents, but they also apply for police certificates from both the Palestinian Authority and the Israeli government. Israeli citizens who live or lived in the West Bank or Gaza are not subject to the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority and obtain their documents exclusively from the Israeli government.
On June 14, 2007, the designated foreign terrorist organization Hamas took de facto administrative control of Gaza, to include the issuance of civil documents for that territory. The U.S. Government does not accept documents issued by Hamas in Gaza unless verified by the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. It is the responsibility of the applicant submitting a document issued after June 14, 2007, from any governmental agency in Gaza to obtain verification from the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah. The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem does not assist in this process.
East Jerusalem
Since June 28, 1967, East Jerusalem has been under the law, jurisdiction, and administration of the State of Israel. The Israeli-Palestinian Declaration of Principles, signed September 13, 1993, deferred the settlement of the permanent status of Jerusalem to the final stages of negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians. Since 2002, a few suburbs of East Jerusalem are under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority. Palestinians in East Jerusalem hold the status of "permanent resident" of the State of Israel. Some Jerusalemites hold Israeli citizenship, and the rest hold a travel document issued by the Palestinian Authority. Palestinians from the West Bank and East Jerusalem may also have Jordanian T-series travel documents.
In some cases, applicants from East Jerusalem are unable to obtain civil documents from either Israel or the Palestinian Authority.
Israel
Available: Birth certificates are always available for citizens and legal residents born in Israel and East Jerusalem since 1948 and are generally available for those born before 1948.
Fees: None
Home Births: Israeli citizens/residents who have home births with the assistance of a registered midwife can obtain birth certificates from the Israeli Ministry of Interior (MOI) when they submit their notification of birth provided by the midwife. Non-resident foreigners are unable to obtain a birth certificate or an affirmation of birth for home births from the MOI, though a registered midwife will provide them with a notification of birth.
Document Name: Teudat Lidah (Birth Certificate); Eishor Lidah (Affirmation of Birth) for foreigners; Tamsit Rishum (Registration Extract) for Israeli citizens, including those born abroad.
Issuing Authority: Israeli Ministry of Interior's Population and Immigration Authority
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: All of the above documents are light blue with MOI seal. They are written in Hebrew and/or English. One may also request digitally signed birth certificates at https://www.gov.il/he/service/birth_certificate.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Clerk, Israeli MOI
Registration Criteria: The application can be submitted online or may be requested in person at any Israeli MOI office.
Procedure for Obtaining: Requests for birth certificates should be addressed to the office of the Israeli MOI online or in person. The request should include the applicant's name at birth, the date and place of birth, the full name of both parents, the document issued by the hospital where the birth took place, and the applicant's Israeli Identity Card number. There is no need to bring the child if you are applying for the child’s birth certificate in person. Parents or immediate relatives can apply for the birth certificate on behalf of the child. If the application is made by someone unrelated to the child, they will require a power of attorney signed by a lawyer or a court order.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available.
Alternate Documents: Israelis who are unable to obtain a birth certificate (either because the records do not exist or because they are unobtainable due to lack of relations between Israel and the birth country) may instead present a “Tamsit Rishum” (see above.)
Exceptions: “Birth and Baptismal Certificate” can be obtained from the Church where the child was baptized in lieu of a “Birth Certificate”. No fee is required for such a document.
Comments: More details on Israeli civil documents can be found on the MOI site: https://www.gov.il/en/Subjects/certificates_and_passports/prescription_population.
Arab residents of East Jerusalem may obtain records from the Israeli MOI. However, there have been cases where the MOI has directed applicants without legal residence in Jerusalem to obtain a birth certificate for a newborn from the Palestinian Authority, despite the fact that the birth took place in Jerusalem. These applicants may contact the hospital and obtain hospital records that attest to their birth in Jerusalem.
The Palestinian Authority (West Bank and Gaza)
Available: Generally available for those born in the West Bank and Gaza
Fees: No fee for first original. Additional original copies for a fee.
Document Name: Birth Certificate
Issuing Authority: Palestinian Authority (PA) Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White background with a lightly colored block for biographical data and MOI seals at the bottom right, PA MOI employee’s signature at the bottom left, and a gold seal at the bottom center. Top left states in English “State of Palestine, Ministry of Interior, Department of Civil Affairs” and the equivalent in Arabic is on the top right. Older versions of this document have a white background, do not have the gold seal, and state “State of Palestine, Ministry of Interior, Department of Civil Affairs.”
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: MOI employee (Department of Civil Affairs)
Registration Criteria: Completing a form and stamping it at a service office authorized by the Ministry of Justice. A Palestinian citizen parent may submit the required forms such as copies of IDs and marriage certificate at any MOI branch.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applications for birth certificates for Palestinian residents of the West Bank must be submitted to the Palestinian Authority MOI office located nearest the applicant's place of residence. Non-residents of the West Bank may approach the nearest overseas representative of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) to request a birth certificate or write to the PA MOI office nearest their birthplace. Children of parents with non-final legal status may be able to obtain birth certificates that list asterisks instead of ID numbers.
Certified Copies: Available from the MOI
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.
Comments: The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem accepts birth extracts issued by the PA for Palestinian applicants born before 1948 within the pre-1967 boundaries of Israel, but who are now residents overseas or in the West Bank and Gaza.
Between 1948 and 1967, the Government of Jordan issued certificates to residents of the West Bank, and the Government of Egypt issued certificates to residents of Gaza. However, replacement certificates are issued by the PA MOI. The Government of Israel issued birth certificates to Palestinians born between 1967 and 1993. However, replacement certificates are issued by the PA MOI. The U.S. government does not accept birth certificates issued by Hamas in Gaza. Applicants born after June 14, 2007 must present birth certificates issued or verified by the PA MOI in the West Bank. It is the responsibility of the applicant submitting a document issued after June 14, 2007, from any governmental agency in Gaza, to obtain verification from the PA MOI office in Ramallah.
Israel
Available: Generally available following the same procedures as birth certificates
Fees: No fee required
Document Name: Teudat ptirah (Death Certificate)
Issuing Authority: Israeli Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue background if printed by the MOI as a hard copy, or light gray/blue if digital. The printed one has the MOI stamp and employee signature; the digital has a digital stamp. Israel can also issue a digitally signed PDF death certificate.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Clerk, MOI
Procedure for Obtaining: Printed versions can be obtained online or in person, or online for a digitally signed document, but a notice from Ministry of Health is required. https://www.gov.il/en/service/death_certificate
Death Certificate: Any person who dies in Israel will be issued a death certificate.
Who can receive the Death Certificate? Death certificates are issued to the next of kin, though a grandchild may obtain the record for their grandparent. Others may obtain the death certificate with a power of attorney certified by an attorney.
If the death occurs outside of a hospital, the information is updated with the Ministry of Health and MOI.
If the death occurs at a hospital, the Ministry of Health will deliver the records to the MOI. This process can take between 2 to 3 weeks.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
The Palestinian Authority (West Bank and Gaza)
Fee: Varies
Document Name: Death Certificate
Issuing Authority: Palestinian Authority (PA) Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White background with a lightly colored block for biographical data and MOI seals at the bottom right, PA MOI employee’s signature at the bottom left, and a gold seal at the bottom center. Top left states in English “State of Palestine, Ministry of Interior, Department of Civil Affairs” and the equivalent in Arabic is on the top right. Older versions of this document have a white background, do not have the gold seal, and state “State of Palestine, Ministry of Interior, Department of Civil Affairs.”
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: MOI employee (Department of Civil Affairs)
Registration Criteria: Can be obtained online or in person, but a notice from the Ministry of Health is required.
Procedure for Obtaining: Individuals must appear with a record from the hospital as well as a burial declaration at the Office of Administration of Civil status in the city where the deceased resided. They must then have the form stamped at a Ministry of Justice-authorized service office.
A death certificate without an ID number is issued to non-Palestinian citizens who die in the West Bank. The reporter of death must appear with a record from the hospital, a burial declaration, a copy of the deceased’s passport, a copy of the deceased’s visa, and a verification of the reporting body.
Governmental offices in Israel and the Palestinian Authority do not issue certificates for civil marriages, though Israel accepts such documents issued by other countries to update marriage status as recorded with the MOI. Requests for marriage certificates should be sent to the appropriate religious community. Note: Same-sex marriages can be registered in Israel with the MOI as long as the marriage was legal in the country in which it was conducted.
Jewish marriages in Israel
Available: All information regarding marriages and divorces for Israeli applicants can be found here: https://www.gov.il/he/service/marriage-certificate or https://www.gov.il/he/service/obtaining-divorce-certificate
Fees: No fee required for first copy. A fee is required for the second original copy.
Document Name: Teudat Nissuim (Marriage Certificate) or Ishur Nissuim or Psikta
Issuing Authority: Rabbinate (Rabbanut), through the municipal religious council
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White. Rabbinical seal. Issued in Hebrew.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Municipality’s Rabbinical Clerk’s Office
Registration Criteria: Can be obtained online or in person. Digital marriage certificates contain a digital apostille and are available to Israeli ID holders who have registered in my.gov.il.
Procedure for Obtaining: The couple submits a request to the Rabbinical Court. The Rabbi issues two copies of the Ketubah, or religious marriage contract, which is not acceptable for immigration documentation purposes. The couple provides a copy of the Ketubah to the rabbinical court to issue the Teudat Nissuim.
Certified Copies Available: A second copy of Teudat Nissuim can be obtained from the Rabbinical Court for a fee.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.
Exceptions: None
Muslim marriages in Israel
Available
Fees: Varies depending on the specific service requested.
Document Name: Marriage Contract
Issuing Authority: The Sharia Courts (under the Ministry of Justice) בתי הדין השרעיים Batei Hadin Hashr’iim [city]
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue/purple seal
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The Sharia courts
Registration Criteria: A written and signed request from the individuals in question should be submitted to the local court via mail or online. Additional information can be found at https://www.gov.il/en/departments/ministry_of_justice_the_shrais_courts/govil-landing-page.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should complete a written request and schedule an appointment with a marriage officiant. ID cards, birth certificates, proof of guardianship by the second closest relative, and a medical exam from a government-licensed medical center must be presented by both parties.
Certified Copies Available: Available for a fee
Alternate Documents: Confirmation of marriage ( اثبات قيام زوجيه ) can be issued to confirm non-Sharia court marriages, such as civil marriages performed in other countries.
Exceptions: None
Muslim marriages (East Jerusalem) under the jurisdiction of Jordan
Available if one of the two individuals is an East Jerusalem ID holder
Fees: Varies
Document Name: Marriage Contract
Issuing Authority: Supreme Judge Department قاضي القضاة – محكمة القدس الشرقية
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue/purple seal
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The Jerusalem Sharia Judge, the writer, and the head of writers
Registration Criteria: See below.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants and their wokala’ (legal guardian, regardless of age) must appear in person in court or in front of the Ma’thoun (Muslim marriage official), submit the required documents such as IDs, previous divorces if applicable, and medical tests (mainly for Thalassemia, or Mediterranean Anemia). A handwritten marriage contract is drafted at the time of the wedding, signed by all the parties and stamped by the Ma’thoun. The Ma’thoun gives the handwritten contract to the court to be finalized (typed, signed by the appropriate officials and a wet seal is placed in about 3 locations on the marriage contract). Each applicant receives their original copy, and one is kept in the court’s records.
Certified Copies Available: Available for a fee.
Alternate Documents: The court often provides marriage confirmation documents under a variety of labels, including Proof of Marriage, Acknowledgement of Marriage, or Confirmation of Marriage. The U.S. Embassy accepts any of these documents as long as they are issued by the competent authority.
Exceptions: None
Comments: Amendments can be made to the official record and are listed in box number 4 of the contract followed by an additional signature by the head of writers and accompanied by the wet seal of the court. Any amendment must include the documents used to make the amendment.
Muslim marriages in the West Bank and Gaza
Available
Fees: Varies
Document Name: Marriage Contract
Issuing Authority: The Sharia Courts – the Supreme Judge’s Department (West Bank)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue/purple seal
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Sharia Court Judge
Registration Criteria: See below.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants and their wokala (legal guardian, regardless of age) can appear in person or by proxy in court or in front of the Ma’thoun, submit the required documents such as IDs, previous divorces if applicable, medical tests (mainly for Thalasimia). A handwritten marriage contract is drafted and signed by all the parties and stamped by the Ma’thoun. A copy is given to the applicants, and one is taken by the Ma’thoun to the court for final registration to issue the official signed and stamped marriage certificate. Each applicant receives their original copy, and one is kept in the court’s records.
Certified Copies Available: Available for a fee
Alternate Documents: The Sharia court often provides marriage confirmation documents under a variety of labels, including Proof of Marriage, Acknowledgement of Marriage, or Confirmation of Marriage. The U.S. Embassy accepts any of these documents as long as they are issued by the competent authority.
Exceptions: None
Comments: In recent years, applicants have been able to obtain a typed marriage contract from the court. If the applicants would like to make amendments to the original marriage contract, they can request such amendments from the court and provide the necessary documents to support such amendments. Amendments can be documented on the original document or through issuance of an amended document.
Roman Catholic marriages in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza
Available
Fees: No fee except for complex cases requiring a legal decision from the Patriarchate Court
Document Name: Marriage Certificate
Issuing Authority: Latin Patriarchate
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White background with the Latin Patriarchate’s stamp
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Parish priest in the place of celebration
Registration Criteria: Both parties should apply in person to the Latin Patriarchate. Marriage certificates are issued in accordance with the laws and regulations of the community.
Procedure for Obtaining: See above.
Certified Copies Available: The Latin Patriarchate authenticates the original document and copies if needed.
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
Comments: Roman Catholic Churches do not issue divorce certificates but can issue Legal separation ( تفريق قضائي ) or Annulment of marriage ( ابطال زواج / فسخ زواج ) documents. Legal separation does not constitute divorce, and such status does not free the couple to remarry. Annulments allow a couple to remarry.
Greek Orthodox marriages in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza
Available
Fees: Fee depends on the place of issuance
Document Name: Marriage Certificate
Issuing Authority: Orthodox Church where the marriage took place
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White background with the Orthodox Church seal
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Parish Priest in the place of celebration
Registration Criteria: Both parties should apply in person. Marriage certificates are issued in accordance with the laws and regulations of the community.
Procedure for Obtaining: See above.
Certified Copies: Available through the church that issued the marriage certificate
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
Jewish divorces in Israel
Available
Fees: The required fee is payable online or in person at the Rabbinical Court.
Document Name: Teudat Gerushin
Issuing Authority: Rabbinical Courts (Batei Hadeen HaRabbi’im)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White Background. Stamped by the Regional Rabbinical court in blue color.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Rabbinical Courts (Batei Hadeen Harabbi’im)
Registration Criteria: The Rabbinical Courts issue two types of divorce documents. The first is a “Get” which allows the married individual to remarry under religious law. This document is insufficient to constitute a divorce for Consular purposes. The second document is the Teudat Gerushin, which constitutes a legal divorce and is accepted for consular purposes.
Procedure for Obtaining: The formerly married couple, either both or separately, submit a request to the local Rabbinical Court.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available.
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem will accept a civil divorce certificate for couples married abroad in civil ceremonies in certain circumstances.
When a divorce takes place abroad: In order to validate and update a divorce with the Israeli authorities, applicants are required to make a formal request to the Israeli Rabbinical court to validate the certificate. If the document is valid, the Rabbinical Court in Israel will issue a verdict called Psikta. Within 30 days, the parties are required to update the Ministry of Interior of any changes in marital status either directly if in Israel or, if abroad, through an Israeli embassy or consulate.
Muslim divorces in Israel
Available
Fees: Fee required
Document Name: Shahadat Talaq (/شهادة / حجة طلاق)” or “Divorce Decree”
Issuing Authority: The Sharia Courts (under the PA Ministry of Justice)
בתי הדין השרעיים Batei Hadin Hashr’iim [city]
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue seal
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Judge
Registration Criteria: A typed and signed request from the individual in question presented to the local court. Two witnesses with their personal IDs.
Procedure for Obtaining: One party presents the request to a judge who signs it after hearing the witnesses in the case. The approved request is forwarded to the family guidance and reconciliation department. If reconciliation fails, the request is forwarded with the husband’s certified statement to the supreme judge. If approved, the request is recorded in the registration office and signed by the requesting party as well as the witnesses. If the applicant wishes to use the decree outside of the West Bank, it must be certified by the Supreme Judiciary Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the embassy of the country in which the decree is to be used.
Certified Copies Available: Available for a fee.
Alternate Documents: The Sharia court provides divorce confirmation documents under a variety of labels, including Proof of Divorce, Acknowledgement of Divorce, or Confirmation of Divorce. The U.S. Embassy accepts any of these documents as long as they are issued by the competent authority.
Exceptions: None
Muslim divorces in the West Bank and Gaza
Available
Fees: Fee required
Document Name: Hujat Talaqحجة طلاق" ” or “Divorce Decree”
Issuing Authority: Supreme Judge Department
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Blue seal
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Judge (Sharia court)
Registration Criteria: A typed and signed request from the individual in question presented to the local court. Two witnesses with their personal IDs.
Procedure for Obtaining: One party presents the request to a judge who signs it after hearing the other party or the witnesses in the cases. The approved request is forwarded to the family guidance and reconciliation department. If reconciliation fails, the request is forwarded with the husband’s certified statement to the supreme judge. If approved, the request is recorded in the registration office and signed by the requesting party as well as the witnesses. If the applicant wishes to use the decree outside of the West Bank, it must be certified by the Supreme Judiciary Council, the PA Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the embassy of the country in which the decree is to be used.
Certified Copies Available: Available for a fee
Alternate Documents: There are different degrees/types of divorce available. Small and major Ba’ena divorces are final divorces signifying the termination of marriage. Revocable divorces are not final divorces, and to prove the termination of marriage, an applicant may submit a number of supporting documents like: deed of acknowledgement of divorce, deed of no return, and no impediments to marry (relevant in this case for women only). Additionally, Sharia court documents labeled as Proof of Divorce, Acknowledgement of Divorce, or Confirmation of Divorce are all accepted by the U.S. Embassy.
Exceptions: None
Child Custody: Palestinian law automatically grants full child custody to fathers after a divorce (Wisaya or Wilayah), though the U.S. government requires fathers to document that custody when executing a passport application for minor children as the sole parent. Mothers are customarily granted the right to care for their minor children after a divorce (Hadana), but that is insufficient evidence to sign a minor passport application as the sole parent. To apply for a minor passport as the sole parent, mothers can seek a court order that allows them to apply for a passport, or in some cases the Sharia court may grant them special custody rights known as Wisayah.
Comments: Sharia courts will generally accept divorce jurisdiction in a case where the marriage occurred under a different sharia court system. Divorces are often registered with the Sharia court many months or years after the divorce was deemed to have occurred. In such cases, the Sharia court recognizes the reported date of divorce as the time when divorce occurred, and not the date the divorce was registered.
Greek Orthodox divorces in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza
The Ecclesiastical Court of the Orthodox Churches in Israel and the West Bank can issue a divorce certificate. The cost of the divorce certificate is the same as the marriage certificate. The procedure to obtain the certificate is long and requires an ecclesiastical court decision.
Anglican and Roman Catholic annulments and separations
Anglican and Roman Catholic authorities do not issue divorce certificates, though they may issue certificates of separation (تفريق قضائي) or annulment (ابطال زواج / فسخ زواج). Couples may be separated for many years, but a separation is not a dissolution of marriage and does not free the couple to remarry. Annulments are more difficult to obtain, but an annulled marriage will free the couple to remarry.
The Immigrant Visa Unit at the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem rarely sees adoption certificates issued in Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza. For information regarding adoption documentation in Israel, see: https://www.gov.il/en/departments/molsa/govil-landing-page. There is no Muslim adoption in the West Bank or Gaza. Christian adoptions may be permitted on a case-by-case basis but are rare.
Israel
Available
Fees: No charge for the first biometric ID card. Second issuance replacing a lost, stolen or mutilated ID requires a fee.
Document Name: Teudat Zehut (National ID Card)
Issuing Authority: Israeli Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The biometric ID card is light blue with a menorah symbol along the top border, photo on the right and chip on the left. ID number is below the photo. The number is also superimposed on a holographic small photo in the lower left. A holographic Star of David and menorah can be seen on the lower left corner of the photo, and another Star of David is visible in microprinting to the upper right of the photo, when viewed in the proper light. Data is in Hebrew and in Arabic. Additional biographic information is on the back. The back displays a menorah prominently in the center. The Israeli flag is to the lower left, and several stars of David are visible around the back face of the card.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: MOI clerk
Registration Criteria: There are no registration criteria
Procedure for obtaining: Apply in person after age 16. An Israeli ID is valid for 10 years if the holder provided fingerprints. If not, ID is valid for 5 years. Only Israeli citizens and Residents are eligible for the ID card. They must be present in Israel.
More information: As means to prevent money laundering, Israeli citizens who remain abroad for an extended time will not be eligible for an Israeli ID card. They will have to identify themselves at the bank with their passport.
Under certain circumstances an ID card can be delivered to a third party (guardian/next of kin), which requires a doctor’s letter indicating the reason preventing the Subject from physically being able to visit the MOI.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
Israeli ID for East Jerusalem Residents: Permanent residents of East Jerusalem who are not Israeli citizens are eligible for Israeli ID cards. If both parents are permanent residents of East Jerusalem, children receive an Israeli ID automatically. If only the mother is a permanent resident of East Jerusalem, the couple must prove that their center of life has been in Israel for the past two years (center of life מרכז חיים) and the majority of their ties are in Israel. If only the father is a permanent resident, the process is much more complicated and includes a paternity test and legal proceedings.
The Palestinian Authority (West Bank and Gaza)
Available
Fees: No fee for the first ID card (Hawiya); fees are required for a replacement of a lost, stolen, or mutilated ID.
Issuing authority: Palestinian Authority Ministry of Interior
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Green cover. Laminated page that includes biodata with a Palestinian eagle image in the background. Photo of the individual on the left. The bottom left has the MOI stamp that covers part of the photo. The identity cards contain information in both Arabic and Hebrew.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Manager of General Administration of Civil Status at the PA MOI
Registration Criteria: The Ramallah-based PA MOI issues identity cards for Palestinians living in the West Bank and Gaza. Applicants complete a form to be stamped at a service office authorized by the PA Ministry of Justice.
Procedure for Obtaining: See above.
Comments: The national ID number on the document is generated by the Israeli Civil Administration in the West Bank.
Name changes in Israel
Name changes: https://www.gov.il/en/service/name_change
Name changes in Israel are administered by the Ministry of Interior (MOI), and there is a fee. Applications must be done in person and are approved by a clerk, or by a consular officer if abroad. Identity documents, to include passports, are then issued under the new name.
Generally, any adult age 18 and older may change their name. Exceptions include sex offenders and those who have changed their name within the last seven years. Parents can also request name changes for children under age 18, but the rules are stricter.
In the case of newly issued passports, the individual’s previous name is listed in brackets; however, subsequently issued passports will not include this information. Transgender individuals are exempt from the requirement to list their previous name in brackets.
Name changes in the West Bank and Gaza
Applicants must complete a form and have it stamped by a service office authorized by the PA Ministry of Justice, and there is a fee. After that, the applicant visits the Administration of Civil Status office in the city of residence. Issuance takes between one and three days.
A name equivalency document is a “To Whom It May Concern” document issued by the MOI to confirm the aliases used by a Palestinian citizen that were not due to a legal name change. In the case of legal name changes, the applicant must submit the court order associated with the name change to the MOI in order to obtain the name equivalency document.
Israeli Police Criminal Information Certificates
Available
Fees: No fee, unless an apostille stamp is requested
Document Name: Israeli Criminal Information Certificate (ICIC)
Issuing Authority: Israel National Police (INP)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Seal from the national headquarters/blue and white/legal size.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Head of Information Transfer
Registration Criteria: Crime register and rehabilitation of offenders, Law of 1981
Procedure for Obtaining: Israeli citizens or Jerusalem ID holders can request an Israeli Criminal Information Certificate (ICIC). The certificate will be sent directly to the embassy or consulate and is never sent directly to the requestor. Applicants may request the certificate at their nearest police station or online at https://forms.gov.il/globaldata/getsequence/getHtmlForm.aspx?formType=criminaldocument@police.gov.il (Hebrew only). Former residents of Israel may apply in person at an Israeli embassy or consulate or online using the link above. For requests made online, applicants should specify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where they are applying (e.g., “U.S. Embassy Jerusalem”) as the requesting agency. The Israeli National Police will mail the certificate to the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. If applicants have their certificates sent to the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem even though they are applying elsewhere, the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem will email the certificate to the Consular Section at the U.S. embassy or consulate where they are applying upon request from the Consular Section.
Under normal circumstances, West Bank and Gaza applicants must apply for the Israeli Criminal Information Certificate (ICIC) from the Israeli DCO (Civil Liaison Office) nearest to their place of residence, or at the nearest Israeli embassy or consulate if residing abroad or they can authorize someone else to apply on their behalf. The authorized will need to be identified using an ID or passport, show the authorization, and provide a copy of the authorizing individual’s passport biodata page.
Palestinian Authority Non-Conviction Certificate
Available
Fees: For a fee
Document Name: Non-Conviction Certificate
Issuing Authority: PA Ministry of Justice (MOJ)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Circle stamp (National Justice Record), Blue
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Office General Manager name is printed, and the issuing officer’s signature is present.
Registration Criteria: PA ID card required
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants/first-degree family members or their designated agents with a power of attorney must present themselves at the PA Ministry of Justice or apply through Hukumati (e-government services and e-payments app). Also, Palestinians can request a non-conviction certificate through the post office. The certificate is issued on the same day. For more details on how to apply for the Non-Conviction Certificate, please visit the Ministry of Justice website. The document must be retrieved in person by the applicant or a designated agent with a power of attorney. Applicants with a Palestinian ID may apply. The certificate is not obtainable outside of the West Bank or Gaza.
Comments: The non-conviction document only includes convictions, not arrests, lawsuits, or other criminal records. Some convictions will be removed from the record if the applicant makes such a request after the legal period has passed. Legal periods are determined based on the crime committed.
Israel
Available
Fees: None
Document Names: Kitvei Ishoum (Indictment), Psak Din (Court resolution/ruling), Gzar Din (verdict)
Issuing Authority: The court where the trial took place (District Court, Magistrate Court, Supreme Court, Military Court, Family Court, Special Court)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The designated court seal appears on plain paper. There is no special format.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Judge
Registration Criteria: Generally available up to 10 years after the case has been expunged, except in cases involving "serious" crimes, in which case they are available indefinitely.
Procedure for Obtaining: The court record may be obtained from either the Judicial Court or the Military Court where the trial took place. Applicants may request the court record through the following site: https://www.gov.il/he/service/order_court_archive_file.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
The Palestinian Authority (West Bank and Gaza)
Available
Fees: A fee is required.
Document Name: Court records
Issuing Authority: Court Registration Office/High Judicial Council
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Court seal, blue color
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Registry Officer
Registration Criteria: The petitioner submits the request to the appropriate court registration office to obtain a certified copy of the court record. Court records may be available for the duration permitted by the law depending on the type of case. If a citizen was able to obtain a Rad Itibar (similar to an expungement), then the record will no longer be available.
Procedure for Obtaining: The full name of the petitioner or the case file number is required.
Certified Copies Available: Certified copies are available.
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
Israel
Available
Fees: None
Document Name: Form 807, Teudat Shikhrur (Release Certificate), or Form 830 Teudat Ptor (Exemption Certificate)
Issuing Authority: Israel Defense Forces (IDF)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Form 807 is issued digitally.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: IDF
Registration Criteria: You may apply for these forms online by visiting the following website: https://ishurim.prat.idf.il.
Procedure for Obtaining: See above.
Certified Copies Available: No
Alternate Documents: In lieu of the military release, form AF435 may be requested from the Office of the Adjutant General in Ramat Gan, Israel. Israelis who have not served in the army should possess an exemption certificate (Teudat Ptor) or a similar document issued by the IDF.
Exceptions: None
Israel
Available: All information regarding Israeli passports and travel documents can be found on the following site: https://www.gov.il/en/service/application_for_biometric_passport2
Issuing Government Authority: Both the Israeli Ministry of Interior and Israeli embassies and consulate abroad issue passports and travel documents.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Regular Israeli passports have a blue cover and are normally issued for ten years, though can also be issued for less than full validity. In some cases, the validity of the passport is limited to one year (for example, for someone who lost several previous passports, or for minors). Diplomatic Israeli passports have a black cover and are generally issued for five years.
Recent immigrants to Israel carry a red cover "Israeli travel document in lieu of a national passport" issued for one to two years. Holders are Israeli citizens, but for various reasons do not qualify for a full-validity national passport - most often for new immigrants who have not "proven" their residency (not residing in Israel for 36 out of 60 consecutive months from the date of acquiring Israeli citizenship). They are also issued to individuals who lose their passport overseas or have a record of multiple passport losses domestically. Visas issued in “in lieu of national passport” documents follow the Israel reciprocity values.
Certain non-Israeli citizens (generally, Arab residents of East Jerusalem or Druze permanent residents of the Golan Heights) also carry a red cover “Israeli travel document" or laissez passer issued for a period of two years. In addition, these are issued to Jerusalem ID holders whose family did not have Jordanian passports prior to 1967. Holders of these documents are considered akin to legal permanent residents of Israel, not citizens. Their nationality will be listed as “Undefined,” “Foreign,” or “Jordanian.”
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Clerk, Ministry of Interior
Registration Criteria: In-person
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants may request an appointment through the Israeli MOI website, https://www.gov.il/he/service/application_for_biometric_passport2.
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: None
Comments: The Voluntary Repatriation Department of the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority issues special travel documents for applicants with no status in Israel. This travel document is only valid for a single trip to leave Israel. For additional information, see here: https://www.gov.il/en/pages/voluntary_repatriation_process.
The Palestinian Authority (West Bank and Gaza)
Available
Fees: For a fee
Document Name: Travel Document/Passport
Issuing Government Authority: PA Ministry of Interior
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: VIP (red cover), regular (black cover), regular single use (black cover). Front cover – “The Palestinian Authority” appears on top in both Arabic and English, with an eagle in the middle. Underneath the eagle, “The Palestinian Authority” is written again in Arabic. The Palestinian MOI issues non-biometric and biometric passports. Non-biometric passports can be obtained by the applicant or a first-degree family member. Biometric passports require in person presence for the collection of biodata like fingerprints. PA passports (biometric and non-biometric) can be issued locally and internationally at a Palestinian embassy or consulate in Jordan, Turkey, or Egypt.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Manager of Passport unit/section at the Palestinian MOI
Registration Criteria: Applicants should present themselves or a first-degree family member, depending on the type of passport requested, at the MOI office in the city where they live or a Palestinian embassy or consulate in Jordan, Turkey, or Egypt. It takes up to one week to issue a passport; expedited passports may be issued in two hours.
Procedure for Obtaining: See above
Alternate Documents: None
Exceptions: The PA issues only VIP and regular passports, not official or diplomatic passports.
Comments: The only legitimate PA non-biometric passports issued after June 2007 are those issued in Ramallah, Hebron, and Nablus. The only legitimate PA biometric passports in circulation since 2023 are those issued in Ramallah or the Palestinian embassies or consulates in Jordan, Turkey, and Egypt. Palestinian diplomatic missions, including delegations to United Nations bodies, remain under the aegis of the Palestine Liberation Organization, not the Palestinian Authority. Palestinian refugees may obtain single-use Palestinian passports from Palestinian embassies and consulates in their refugee status to use for one-time travel for immigration purposes. Palestinian refugees living inside the West Bank and Gaza obtain their official civil documents from the PA.
Gaza-issued documents: On June 14, 2007, the designated foreign terrorist organization Hamas took de facto administrative control of Gaza, to include the issuance of civil documents for that territory. The U.S. Government does not accept documents issued by Hamas in Gaza unless verified by the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. Such procedures are still in effect post-October 7, 2023. Applicants submitting Gaza-issued documents are responsible to obtain the proper Palestinian Authority verifications in Ramallah either in person or by authorizing a family member to do so.
Post Title: U.S. Embassy Jerusalem
Address:
6350 Jerusalem Place
Department of State
Washington DC. 20521-6350
Visa Services: https://ustraveldocs.com/ (immigrant and non-immigrant visas in Jerusalem)
Comments / Additional Information: il.usembassy.gov
Post Title: U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv
Address:
9700 Tel Aviv Place
Department of State
Washington DC. 20521-9700
Visa Services: https://ustraveldocs.com/ (non-immigrant visas only in Tel Aviv)
Comments / Additional Information: il.usembassy.gov
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and the U.S. Embassy Branch in Tel Aviv process nonimmigrant visas for residents of Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, and provide Hebrew, Arabic, and Russian language support.
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem handles all immigrant visa processing for residents of Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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