Though Israeli security is infamously known as being ‘strict’, I personally never had any problem with passing through Israeli security check and immigration, both for arriving and leaving the country.
Strict? It’s All Relevant
When you google ‘Israeli airport security’, you read many horrific questions. But there are people who don’t have any problem with Israeli security check, and they don’t post in online. And feelings are subjective. If you haven’t been treated in a harsh way, any raised voice or repetitive questions will annoy you. But comparing to immigration in other countries, Israeli security is simply doing their job. Yes they are serious, but surviving in the Middle East is not easy.
Your Profile
I’m sharing my experience as a citizen of Taiwan. A female. And probably people with similar look like mine don’t speak English. The immigration wasn’t bothered to ask me questions. (And asked my parents and my brother no questions!!)
So if you’re from a country (in Asia?) that English isn’t used as native tongue, the security goes easy on you. Yay!
The security was convinced that we were Christians. So I think as long as you have a valid reason to be in Israel, there is nothing to worried about.
What if You Have Arab Stamps in Your Passport?
You should be able to explain why you were in those countries. On different occasions, Israeli security picked a random Muslim/Arab country and asked me why I was there!
The point was just to see my reaction. The good thing is, if you don’t look suspicious in the first place, then it doesn’t matter what you say. But unfortunately, if you fit their profile of ‘strange’ people, you will be thoroughly checked.
I have stamps and visa from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Jordan, Egypt, Malaysia, Indonesia, UAE, Uzbekistan and Qatar.
And I was asked about why I was in Jordan, Egypt and Malaysia!
General Questions Asked at Immigration (Arrival)
1. What’s your name? (As I said… immigration people goes easy on us Asians)
2. What’s the purpose of your trip?
Just don’t be nervous. Be honest. Israel welcomes tourists! Your presence is appreciated! Don’t worry!
3.Where are you going?
Ummm. I will stick to Jerusalem, Galilee, Nazareth, Haifa, Tel Aviv. But I wouldn’t say Bethlehem and Jericho. (I’ve not been asked about this)
4.How long do you plan to stay?
Be honest in telling your plan. By now the immigration people can tell whether you are a dangerous terrorist, or just a tourist, like many other good tourists who visit Israel. I’ve never been asked to show my hotel reservation or return ticket.
Although I have been asked additional questions, such as
- Where are you staying?
- Where will you go after Israel?
- How will you go there?
Don’t overcomplicate these questions.
General Questions Asked at Immigration (Departure)
1. Did you pack your bag yourself? / Who packed your bag? / Did your bag leave your sight?
2. Did anyone give you anything on this trip/ in Jordan? (If you were in Jordan)
The attitude of security check at departure is more serious. So plan to leave at least 3 hours prior to departure (instead of 90 minutes).
Well, in case you pass through immigration earlier than expected, it won’t be a bad idea to have extra time shopping in duty free shop!
Experience and Tips
1. As mentioned, the immigration simply asked me “what’s your name”? You do have advantage being Chinese (or someone who looks like non-native English speaker), even if you have been to Arab countries.
2. Be honest in your replies. And of course, be consistent in your answers.
3. If you are traveling as family, you can give this information to immigration. (The immigration didn’t ask my parents any question).
4. Leave at least 3 hours prior to departure (instead of 90 minutes).
