TRAVEL REPORTIsrael, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip
Table of contents
Recent Updates
Warnings and Recommendations
Safety and Security
Entry/Exit Requirements
Canadian Governement Contacts
Travel Health
Additional Health Information
Laws and Customs
Travel and Currency
Natrual Disasters and Climate
Additional Information
Annex
Country Profile for Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip 1. RECENT UPDATESThe level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Section 2 has been updated (Beersheba).BACK TO TOP 2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Israel
Exercise normal security precautions
Exercise high degree of caution
Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid all travelMost Canadian visitors to Israel do not experience problems. However, the security situation can change rapidly. Canadians, including dual nationals, should carry their passports at all times and register with the Embassy of Canada in Tel Aviv.In past years, terrorist incidents have occurred in a variety of locations in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Eilat, Haifa, Beersheba, Netanya and other major populated centres, including at tourist sites and in public areas, causing numerous deaths and injuries. Foreigners have been affected but have never been directly targeted. There is potential for further violence. Incidents could be unpredictable and there is a strong risk that Canadians could find themselves in the middle of dangerous situations. Following terrorist incidents, the Government of Israel may establish checkpoints without warning. Canadians visiting urban areas should exercise caution, stay informed of the security situation, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities, particularly during periods of religious holidays, such as Rosh Hashanah, Ramadan and Pesach (Passover). Canadians should also avoid large gatherings, crowded places and demonstrations, and stay away from other possible targets, including pedestrian promenades, shopping malls, open markets, restaurants, discotheques and bus stations. Public transportation should be avoided at all times, especially during peak hours. Canadians should exercise a high level of personal security awareness at all times if they are in Jerusalem, particularly in the Old City, especially during religious holidays as security incidents have occurred during these periods. Recent incidents include a security incident on July 22, 2008, when the driver of a bulldozer deliberately drove into vehicles, injuring at least 10 people. Three people were killed in a similar incident on July 2, 2008, and a number of others were injured. A shooting incident in a religious college on March 6, 2008, left 8 people dead and over 30 injured, including a Canadian. The popular intersection of Jaffa and King George streets and the adjoining Ben Yehuda Pedestrian Mall were targeted in previous years. It is important to note that dual citizens who hold Canadian as well as Israeli citizenship are technically required by law to enter and exit from Israel or the West Bank showing their Israeli documentation.Regions bordering Lebanon
Exercise normal security precautions
Exercise high degree of caution
Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid all travelOFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to regions near the border with Lebanon.While a cessation of hostilities remains in effect between Israel and Hezbollah forces following the 2006 conflict, stability in the northern region of Israel could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Rockets fired from Lebanon into northern Israel have reached Shlomi and Kiryat Shmona. Although tensions have subsided since the 2006 conflict, there is still a strong potential for future incidents.Region surrounding the Gaza Strip
Exercise normal security precautions
Exercise high degree of caution
Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid all travelOFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region surrounding the Gaza Strip due to the risk of rocket and mortar launches, gunfire and of ongoing military activity. Since 2004, there have been regular (sometimes daily) rockets and mortars fired from the Gaza Strip into southern Israel, especially Sderot. Some rockets and mortars have reached Ashqelon, located 12 km away. It has been reported that on December 30, 2008, a rocket reached Beersheba (42 km). Recent attacks have also targeted the Erez border crossing into Gaza.
General Information on the Gaza Strip and the West Bank The security situation in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip is very poor and unpredictable due to inter-factional violence and ongoing military operations. Several thousand people have been killed in recent years. There is a continuing threat to Canadians who are present in these areas of being caught in the crossfire of such incidents.Since December 27, 2008, military air strikes are being conducted in the Gaza Strip causing extensive property damage. Reports indicate that at least 300 persons were killed and more than 1400 others were injured. Demonstrations took place in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank and Jerusalem to protest against military operations; some demonstrations turned violent. Canadians are advised to exercise extreme caution at all times, avoid all crowds, political gatherings and demonstrations, monitor news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.The Government of Israel tightly controls checkpoint crossings within the West Bank and to the Gaza Strip. Security-related closures can severely restrict entry to and exit from these areas, even for persons possessing valid entry and exit permits. Limited hours of operation, unannounced travel restrictions and extended closures result in large crowds often gathering which may elevate associated risks to personal safety. Curfews may also be imposed with little notice. There is a high risk of kidnappings in the Gaza Strip, as well as in the West Bank cities of Nablus and Jenin. Foreigners have been kidnapped in the past.Canadians travelling to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip despite these Travel Warnings should ensure that they have appropriate security measures in place to protect themselves, as well as alternative travel arrangements in case of a rapid deterioration in the security situation. They should carry their passports at all times, register and maintain contact with the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah, keep a low profile, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Palestinian authorities may demand that Palestinian documentation be shown on exit or entry. Israeli authorities may allow exit from these locations only by persons showing Palestinian documentation.The Gaza Strip
Exercise normal security precautions
Exercise high degree of caution
Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid all travelOFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the Gaza Strip, as it continues to be affected by serious violence. Attacks occurring as recently as September 2008 have resulted in multiple casualties. The situation could deteriorate further due to inter-factional violence, along with possible military operations in the area. Areas around the border with Israel are particularly dangerous. The entrances to and exits from the Gaza Strip are under the control of Israeli and Egyptian authorities and have been effectively closed since June 2007, even to those in possession of valid entry and exit permits. Terrorist attacks occurred at border crossings in 2008.Canadian consular officials have very limited ability to intervene on behalf of Canadians who choose to enter or remain in the Gaza Strip.The West Bank
Exercise normal security precautions
Exercise high degree of caution
Avoid non-essential travel
Avoid all travelOFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the West Bank as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly due to inter-factional tension, demonstrations or military operations. There are frequent police and military operations targeting militants in cities and villages throughout the West Bank, particularly in Nablus, Jenin, Qalqiliyya, Tulkarem and the refugee camps. It is not possible to travel without passing through multiple Israeli military checkpoints. There is a threat of violent outbreaks in areas near checkpoints and of demonstrations. Areas in the vicinity of the Barrier separating the West Bank and Israel are particularly high-risk. It is recommended to travel only during daytime and not to stay overnight.OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.BACK TO TOP 3. SAFETY AND SECURITY The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.CrimeThe crime rate is moderate in Israel, and low in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Vehicle theft is a serious problem. Car doors should always be locked and windows closed. Thefts also occur on public beaches. All Canadians should be particularly careful to keep wallets, money and valuables out of sight, particularly in large crowds and public markets. Violent crime is rare. Old City of JerusalemThere is a high incidence of crime in the Old City, particularly at night. It is recommended that visitors travel in groups and dress conservatively.DemonstrationsPlanned and unplanned demonstrations sometimes occur in Jerusalem, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Caution should particularly be exercised if demonstrations take place around areas such as settlements, checkpoints or military zones. Canadians are advised to avoid crowds, political gatherings or demonstrations because they could turn violent without warning.LandminesThere are live landmines in certain areas, including parts of the West Bank and along Israel’s borders. Some minefields have not been clearly marked or fenced. Visitors should walk only on established roads or trails.General Safety InformationThere are frequent disruptions in telephone, power and water services in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The main emergency phone numbers for Israel and the West Bank are 100 for police, 102 for fire department service and 101 for medical emergencies.BACK TO TOP 4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties. The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Israeli authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller's responsibility to check with the Embassy of Israel and its consulates, as well as the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, for up-to-date information.A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Israel, the West Bank and/or the Gaza Strip. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of the expected departure from the country. Proof of a return ticket is required.Tourist Visa: Not requiredBusiness Visa: Not requiredStudent Visa: Not requiredWork Visa: Required (must be arranged by Israeli employer)Dual Nationals (see also Section 8)Canadians who were born outside Israel to a mother or father who is an Israeli citizen may be considered citizens of Israel. Israeli law requires Israeli citizens to enter and leave the country on an Israeli passport, and to show proof of military status upon arrival. Canadians who are unsure of their Israeli citizenship and/or their military status should verify it through the Embassy of Israel or an Israeli consulate before leaving Canada. It is imperative that Palestinian Canadians are aware of border control policies affecting entry to and exit from Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip prior to travel as they are subject to Government of Israel travel regulations for Palestinians. Anyone registered in the Government of Israel’s West Bank or Gaza Population Registry as a resident of the West Bank or the Gaza Strip is not permitted to enter Israel via Ben Gurion International Airport.Canadians of Palestinian originA Palestinian Authority travel document may be required for any Canadian of Palestinian origin. Failure to present this document may prevent entry to or exit from Israel, the West Bank or the Gaza Strip.Travel to and from the West BankFor information on travel to the West Bank, Canadians should consult the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs website since Israel is the de facto authority responsible for foreign nationals’ entry to and exit from the West Bank. In some circumstances, Canadians may be denied entry into the West Bank by Israel.Palestinian Canadians are permitted to enter and depart only via the Allenby Bridge.Travel to and from the Gaza StripThere are currently severe restrictions on entry to and exit from the Gaza Strip. All border crossings have effectively been closed since June 2007. Palestinian Canadians should note that they are permitted to enter and depart only through the Rafah border crossing into Egypt when it is open. Non-Palestinians are generally not permitted to use this crossing. Travel to and from JordanVisas can be obtained at the Arava crossing (Wadi al-’Arabah) in the south (near Eilat) and at the Jordan River crossing (Sheikh Hussein Bridge) in the north (near Bet She’an). Canadian passport holders may also cross at the Allenby Bridge (King-Hussein) crossing near Jericho. Visas must be obtained before the date of crossing. They cannot be obtained at the crossing point.Regional TravelCanadians travelling to Israel from other countries in the Middle East are advised that their passports could come under increased scrutiny by Israeli immigration authorities because they bear visa and entry/exit stamps from those countries. Canadians experiencing problems are encouraged to contact the nearest Canadian government office or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa for advice and assistance.Canadians have been denied entry into Syria, Lebanon and other countries because their passports bore: (a) an Israeli visa; (b) an Israeli border stamp; or (c) an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel (such a stamp would indicate that the traveller entered from Israel).
A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies. Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services. Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders. Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order. Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada. BACK TO TOP 5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses: Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip - TEL AVIV, Embassy of CanadaAddress: 1 Nirim Street, Entrance A, 4th Floor, Tel Aviv 67060, IsraelPostal Address: P.O. Box 9442, Tel Aviv, 67060, IsraelTel.: 972 (3) 636-3300 Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 014-800-2326-6831Fax: 972 (3) 636-3383E-Mail: taviv@international.gc.caInternet: http://www.israel.gc.caWest Bank and Gaza Strip - RAMALLAH, Representative Office of Canada Address: 12 Mahfal Street, Ramallah, West BankPostal Address: P.O. Box 18604, Jerusalem 91184, or P.O. Box 2286, Ramallah, West BankTel.: 972 (2) 297-8430 Fax: 972 (2) 297-8446E-Mail: rmlah@international.gc.caInternet: http://www.westbankandgaza.gc.caFor emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Tel Aviv and follow the instructions. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 014-800-2326-6831.BACK TO TOP 6. TRAVEL HEALTHThe Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site. The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date. Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage. The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.