US eases visa regulations for Israel

The US Embassy in Israel has done away with crucial requirements for certain visa seekers of Israel, making it simpler for them to visit America.

There were speculations that the US could soon abolish the requirement that Israelis intending to enter America apply for a tourist visa prior to their trip, the US embassy in Tel Aviv announced. They said Israeli nationals who already have visas no longer would need to renew them.

On the other hand, Israeli and American officials have yet to come to a consensus over important issues which have held up until now adding Israel to the visa waiver program. These are because of American demands that Israel should give the US authorities permission to use personal information databanks in Israel, allowing the US law enforcement officials to identify criminals and individuals with terrorist ties.

Because of this, it is mandated by the US that all Israeli citizens wishing to visit the US first obtain a tourist visa, which involves a process including a personal meeting with an embassy or consulate officers, who evaluate applicants in a bid to filter prospective illegal immigrants.

According to israelnationalnews.com, though the visa requirements remain, the US Embassy has dropped the personal interview for certain Israelis who want to renew their tourist visas.

A statement released by the US Embassy said any Israeli citizen currently holding a valid tourist visa or any other visa, which expired within the last one year and was aged above 14 when he/she obtained the last visa, is eligible for the new process of visa renewal.

Those eligible will not be required to attend an interview, and they can complete the process without visiting the US Embassy/Consulate.

If you are looking to visit Israel or the US, talk to Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 immigration or visa consultancy, to apply for a visa.