On January 8, Israel will enter a new, more stringent phase in the current lockdown. As reported yesterday, there will be restrictions on flying out of Israel during this period. The previous time such a restriction was imposed brought much confusion, especially to foreign residents of Israel. Therefore, Chaim V’Chessed representatives have been in close contact with Ministry of Transportation officials, who have shared the precise guidelines with us.
~ Passengers holding tickets purchased prior to 12 AM on January 8 will be permitted to fly. They must provide proof of purchase date, such as an email confirmation.
~ Passengers with tickets purchased after 12 AM on January 8 will be permitted to fly only if traveling for:
- A funeral, wedding, Bar Mitzva or bris of a first degree relative
- Medical treatment or to obtain medicine/medical supplies
- Providing assistance to someone in distress or crisis
- Moving to a new home
- Returning to returning to your country of origin
- Returning to a permitted place of work
It is permitted to travel for one of the above reasons without obtaining a special permit. Humanitarian requests for reasons other than the above may be submitted to the Ministry of Transportation at this link.
Foreigners are, of course, bound by the laws of the land, like anyone in Israel. Still, Ministry officials have told us that the permission to ‘return to your country of origin’ will seemingly be grounds for many foreigners to be permitted to fly. Of course, always bring any relevant documentation. And, bear in mind that rules can and will change frequently. This is the most up to date information currently available .
Reminder: In general, we discourage any non-essential travel during this period of extreme uncertainty and frequent, rapid changes.
