What are the best travel insurances for Israel in 2025?
- The best travel insurances for Israel
- Is it currently safe to travel to Israel?
- Is travel insurance required for the visa to Israel?
- Why take out travel insurance for Israel?
- Travel Insurance Coverage for Israel
- The cost of travel insurance for Israel
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Israel
- Your current insurance coverage in Israel
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Israel: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Israel covers medical costs, repatriation, and assistance during your trip.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises reconsidering travel to Israel due to terrorism and civil unrest.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for U.S. citizens, but it is highly recommended for protection.
4. Healthcare cost: Israeli healthcare is excellent but expensive; a hospital night can exceed $1,500 for tourists.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Israel typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Verify your policy covers regions with travel advisories and potential acts of terrorism.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Israel.
The best travel insurances for Israel
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.0M | Most comprehensive protection for Israel. - high medical limits - covers evacuation - strong terrorism clause. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.0M | Flexible and reputable for Israel. - 24/7 support - cancellation cover - easy claims. |
| Tourist Card | $500K | Focused on tourists. - good medical reimbursement - emergency assistance - competitive pricing. |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700K | Balanced for all travelers. - emergency repatriation - hospital costs - wide geographical coverage. |
| Globe Partner | $300K | Solid core protection. - medical aid abroad - repatriation included - civil liability. |
| Globe Traveller | $500K | For shorter or low-risk trips. - essential medical cover - fast reimbursement - limited ceiling. |
- high medical limits
- covers evacuation
- strong terrorism clause.
- 24/7 support
- cancellation cover
- easy claims.
- good medical reimbursement
- emergency assistance
- competitive pricing.
- emergency repatriation
- hospital costs
- wide geographical coverage.
- medical aid abroad
- repatriation included
- civil liability.
- essential medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- limited ceiling.
Is it currently safe to travel to Israel?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises against all travel to Israel due to ongoing armed conflict, terrorism and civil unrest. This official notice is based on increased incidents of violence and the unstable security environment.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: armed conflict is active across parts of Israel, with frequent rocket attacks and military operations. For example, the border areas with Gaza and Lebanon are designated military zones and can become dangerous with little warning.
- Health risks: while Israel’s hospitals in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem offer high-quality care, services may be limited or unavailable in the West Bank and severely restricted in Gaza. Medical evacuation can be difficult and expensive in the event of escalation.
- Legal constraints: entry restrictions and curfews can be imposed without notice. For instance, access to East Jerusalem or border crossings may be closed suddenly under security directives.
- Environmental hazards: disruptions to basic services, such as electricity and water, are possible in conflict zones. Wildfires and extreme heat events can also impact travel and health, especially in rural or border regions.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Israel.
Is travel insurance required for the visa to Israel?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens who wish to visit Israel as tourists for stays up to 90 days.
Despite this, travel insurance is strongly recommended due to the very high risks in Israel. Comprehensive coverage for medical expenses and medical evacuation is essential, as emergencies may arise unexpectedly during periods of armed conflict or unrest.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Israel. This high percentage is mainly due to the volatile security environment and the high cost of emergency medical care or evacuations.
Why take out travel insurance for Israel?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Israel.
In Israel, private hospitals like Assuta Hospital in Tel Aviv or Herzliya Medical Center are commonly used by foreign travelers. These facilities offer high-quality care, but costs are significant and immediate payment may be required. Public hospitals such as Ichilov in Tel Aviv are accessible, but can be overwhelmed during emergencies.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Israel.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Assuta Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 12,000 ILS (about $3,200) | Up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 6,500 ILS (about $1,730) | Up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 85,000 ILS (about $22,700) | Up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 37,000 ILS (about $9,900) | Up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance Coverage for Israel
Due to the ongoing armed conflict and very high security risks, many travel insurance providers have suspended or restricted coverage for trips to Israel. Travelers may find it difficult to purchase new policies that cover incidents linked to the current situation, including war and terrorism. Always check exclusions carefully before departure.
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Israel.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🩺 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, doctor, and medication costs for unexpected illness or injury while in Israel. Recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $250,000 due to the high cost of emergency medical care. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses unused, non-refundable travel costs if you need to cancel for covered reasons (e.g., illness, conflict). Recommend at least $5,000–$10,000 in coverage depending on your trip’s value. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for emergency transportation to the nearest adequate hospital or to return home if needed. Minimum recommended limit: $250,000, as evacuation from Israel can be very costly. |
| 💼 Baggage loss/theft | Covers loss, theft, or delay of checked baggage and personal belongings. Minimum limit: $1,000–$2,000. |
| 🛂 Personal liability | Protects against legal costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Recommended limit: $100,000. |
| ⏰ Travel delay | Compensation for reasonable additional expenses if your trip is delayed due to a covered cause. Recommend at least $500–$1,000. |
| ⚠️ Terrorism cover | Pays specific benefits if your trip is impacted by a terrorist act. Highly recommended to choose a policy that does not exclude terrorism-related claims. |
| 📱 24/7 assistance | Provides access to emergency support, translation, and coordination with local providers. Recommended for all travelers. |
Recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $250,000 due to the high cost of emergency medical care.
Recommend at least $5,000–$10,000 in coverage depending on your trip’s value.
Minimum recommended limit: $250,000, as evacuation from Israel can be very costly.
Minimum limit: $1,000–$2,000.
Recommended limit: $100,000.
Recommend at least $500–$1,000.
Highly recommended to choose a policy that does not exclude terrorism-related claims.
Recommended for all travelers.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often comes with limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. To ensure adequate protection, choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Israel
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $19–$36 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $32–$59 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $54–$98 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $136–$214 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of a travel insurance policy is determined by several key factors, including the traveler's age, the duration of the stay, the destination, desired coverage limits, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. It is important to keep these elements in mind to select the most suitable and cost-effective plan for your trip.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Israel
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Israel while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧑💼 Traveller's age | Premiums rise with age. Israel’s medical costs are high, so age can strongly affect your quote. | Heymondo does not increase prices if you are over 62. Consider this if you are an older traveler. |
| ✈️ Duration of stay | Longer trips mean higher risk and more exposure. Insurance becomes more expensive the longer you stay. | Choose coverage for your exact dates and avoid paying for unnecessary extra days. |
| 👨👩👧 Number of travelers | Family or group policies may be more affordable per person. Traveling with others can unlock discounts. | Look for family or group policies, which are often cheaper than buying several separate plans. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Medical care and potential evacuation in Israel can be very expensive. Minimum coverage varies by insurer. | Select only the coverage you need, and avoid unnecessary high limits or excess options. |
| 🏞️ Activities planned | Adventure or conflict-zone activities require specific coverage, which can be more expensive. | Exclude coverage for risky activities if you do not plan to participate in them. |
| 🇮🇱 Geographical coverage | Some plans include high-risk or neighboring regions, impacting overall cost for Israel. | Only select coverage for Israel, excluding unnecessary regions to pay less. |
| 💳 Deductible amount | Higher deductibles lower the premium but mean you pay more out-of-pocket in case of a claim. | Opt for a higher deductible if you want lower upfront premium costs and can afford potential expenses. |
Your current insurance coverage in Israel
It is completely reasonable to consider whether your current coverage, such as credit card insurance or private health plans, will protect you during your trip to Israel. Unfortunately, this coverage is usually quite limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Israel? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No overseas medical coverage, no hospital or evacuation benefits. | Travel insurance can cover $100,000+ in medical care including evacuation or repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna) | Yes, partly | Some emergency care, possible reimbursement up to $10,000, rarely covers evacuation. | Travel insurance offers $100,000+ medical limits, evacuation and 24/7 assistance abroad. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash) | Yes, partly | Emergency costs up to $5,000, usually excludes evacuation, trip cancellation, or lost baggage. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ medical, evacuation, baggage loss, and trip cancellation. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Mastercard World Elite) | Yes, partly | Medical reimbursement up to $25,000–$50,000, limited trip/baggage coverage. | Travel insurance provides $100,000+ medical, higher baggage and cancellation coverage, and direct support. |
Example
In Tel Aviv, a severe jellyfish sting sent Sarah into anaphylactic shock. The total emergency bill was $12,000. Her US health insurance offered no overseas coverage, and her Visa Signature card’s travel protection only paid $1,000. Sarah was unexpectedly left to cover the remaining $11,000 out-of-pocket.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Israel?
Most U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or short business stays in Israel of up to 90 days. However, as of January 2025, travelers must obtain an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned departure date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Israel?
Start by comparing plans tailored for Israel using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully check the coverage limits and exclusions, paying special attention to emergency medical, evacuation, and any political violence exclusions. You can then purchase the policy online and receive your certificate via email, which you should keep accessible during your trip.
Does travel insurance cover armed conflict or terrorism in Israel?
Most standard travel insurance policies exclude coverage for injuries or losses resulting from war, armed conflict, or acts of terrorism. Read the policy wording in detail to see exactly what is covered, as some providers may offer limited benefits for terrorism-related incidents, but not for events in active conflict zones.
What should I do if I need emergency medical assistance while in Israel?
If you require urgent medical care, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance hotline immediately for guidance. They can help you locate approved facilities, arrange payment, and, if needed, coordinate medical evacuation. Keep your insurance documents and emergency contacts with you at all times.
Are there any health requirements for visiting Israel?
No special vaccinations are required for travelers from the U.S. entering Israel. Standard travel health precautions are advised. Note that medical care in Israel is generally good, but is much more limited in the West Bank and Gaza, where access may be restricted due to the conflict.
How much does travel insurance for Israel typically cost?
Travel insurance prices vary by age, duration, and coverage, but most comprehensive policies cost between $50 and $200 per person for a two-week trip. Higher-risk activities or extended stays may increase these rates.
Do I need a visa to travel to Israel?
Most U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or short business stays in Israel of up to 90 days. However, as of January 2025, travelers must obtain an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) in advance. Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned departure date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Israel?
Start by comparing plans tailored for Israel using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully check the coverage limits and exclusions, paying special attention to emergency medical, evacuation, and any political violence exclusions. You can then purchase the policy online and receive your certificate via email, which you should keep accessible during your trip.
Does travel insurance cover armed conflict or terrorism in Israel?
Most standard travel insurance policies exclude coverage for injuries or losses resulting from war, armed conflict, or acts of terrorism. Read the policy wording in detail to see exactly what is covered, as some providers may offer limited benefits for terrorism-related incidents, but not for events in active conflict zones.
What should I do if I need emergency medical assistance while in Israel?
If you require urgent medical care, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance hotline immediately for guidance. They can help you locate approved facilities, arrange payment, and, if needed, coordinate medical evacuation. Keep your insurance documents and emergency contacts with you at all times.
Are there any health requirements for visiting Israel?
No special vaccinations are required for travelers from the U.S. entering Israel. Standard travel health precautions are advised. Note that medical care in Israel is generally good, but is much more limited in the West Bank and Gaza, where access may be restricted due to the conflict.
How much does travel insurance for Israel typically cost?
Travel insurance prices vary by age, duration, and coverage, but most comprehensive policies cost between $50 and $200 per person for a two-week trip. Higher-risk activities or extended stays may increase these rates.
