US announces Israel’s entry into Visa Waiver Program

By Firdevs Bulut Kartal

TORONTO (AA) - The US announced Israel's entry into the Visa Waiver Program on Wednesday which allows citizens and nationals of Israel to travel to the US for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa.

It is a step to further security and economic ties between the two countries, according to a statement by the State and Homeland Security departments.

After updates to Israel's travel policies, US citizens may also request entry to Israel for up to 90 days without a visa.

“The designation of Israel into the Visa Waiver Program is an important recognition of our shared security interests and the close cooperation between our two countries,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas said in the statement.

The designation represents the two countries' collaboration on counterterrorism and law enforcement, he said.

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said it is a critical step that will “enhance freedom of movement for US citizens, including those living in the Palestinian Territories or traveling to and from them.”

The Visa Waiver Program builds on the partnership between the US and designated countries that meet strict requirements related to counterterrorism, law and immigration enforcement, document security and border management.