Travel advice and advisories for Israel and Palestine

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Naval blockade of the Gaza Strip

The security situation along the Mediterranean coast of the Gaza Strip remains dangerous. The Israeli Navy regularly patrols the area and the Israeli security forces continue to intercept attempts to breach Israel’s naval blockade. 

These incidents have resulted in:

• deaths
• injuries
• arrests
• deportations

In cases of deportation, local authorities are not obliged to notify the Canadian Embassy in Tel Aviv nor the Representative Office of Canada in Ramallah.  As a result, Canadian officials may not be able to provide you with consular assistance.

• Avoid travelling to the Gaza Strip
• Don’t attempt to break the naval blockade

Border areas

Border areas with Israel are particularly dangerous and heavily guarded. Landmines are present in certain areas along Israel’s borders. Some minefields have not been clearly marked or fenced.

All Palestinian border areas, including those with Israel, are tightly controlled by Israeli authorities who restrict access and conduct frequent security operations.

Syria

Militant activity close to the Israeli barrier in the Golan Heights makes the area extremely dangerous and unstable.

Despite the United Nations-monitored buffer zone between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights, cross-border gunfire and rocket fires occur with little or no warning. The Israel Defence Forces also conduct military operations in the area, including air strikes.

• Don’t approach the Israeli barrier along the border with Syria in the Golan Heights
• Monitor local media for information on the latest incidents
• Don’t travel east of Highway 98 except to the following cities:
• Buq’ata
• Mas’ada
• Majdal
• Ghajar

Egypt

The border area with Egypt is dangerous due to military operations and smuggling activities.

The Israeli Defence Forces regularly patrol the area to intercept drug smugglers resulting in frequent armed clashes.

The Rafah border crossing, which is the only option to cross between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, is controlled jointly by Egyptian and Israeli authorities. It has been closed since May 2024 due to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. There have been several strikes on the city of Rafah before and after the border crossing closure. In northern Sinai, the security situation can also deteriorate rapidly due to instability and the risk of terrorist attacks.

Don’t drive on:

• Highway 10
• Highway 12
• south of the intersection of highways 10 and 12
• between Eilat and the Netafim passage

The highways are subject to closure by Israeli authorities without warning.

If you’re planning to travel near the border with Egypt despite this advisory:

• expect roadblocks and checkpoints
• be aware of your surroundings
• monitor local media to determine where military activity is occurring 

Lebanon

There is no official international border between Israel and Lebanon. The United Nations observe the “Blue Line,” which separates the two countries, in addition to a fence constructed by Israel on its side of the Blue line. There are sporadic clashes between Israeli and Lebanese armies patrolling along the Blue line.

Landmines are present in the area.

Terrorist groups based in southern Lebanon have fired a significant number of rockets and missiles from Lebanon into northern Israel in response to the ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip, resulting in air strikes by the Israel Defence Forces. On November 27, 2024, a ceasefire took effect between Israel and Lebanon, but hostilities could resume at any time.

Rockets fired from Lebanon have targeted areas near several cities in northern Israel and Palestine, including:

• Haifa
• Kiryat Shmona
• Shlomi
• Metula
• Metzuba
• Betzet
• Hanita
• Idmit
• Deir Istiya

There are ongoing military operations in the following areas:

• Kfar Shouba Hills
• Shebaa Farms

If you choose to travel near the border with Lebanon despite this advisory:

• remain cautious at all times
• monitor local media for any active security alerts
• follow the advice of local authorities

Jerusalem

Confrontations and clashes can occur in areas of Jerusalem, including parts of the Old City. Jerusalem has also seen an increased number of terrorist attacks targeting civilians.

During periods of imposed movement restrictions and on religious holidays, exacerbated tensions can lead to security incidents.

There are periodic clashes near Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif, including around Al-Aqsa Mosque, especially during Ramadan.

• Avoid travel to the Old City during periods of exacerbated tensions
• Travel in groups
• Always dress conservatively

Due to recent events in Israel, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, local authorities may close or restrict access to checkpoints in and around Jerusalem.

Politically motivated violence

Politically motivated violence occurs regularly throughout Israel and Palestine.

Previous incidents resulting in injuries and deaths include:

• stabbings
• shootings 
• mob violence
• vehicle ramming
• stone-throwing at vehicles
• arbitrary arrests and detentions

During your stay:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• monitor news reports
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Israel. There have been several deadly attacks targeting civilians.

Terrorist incidents causing numerous deaths and injuries have occurred in a variety of locations, including:

• Beersheba
• Eilat
• Haifa
• Jerusalem
• Netanya
• Tel Aviv

Further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• public celebrations
• religious holidays, such as:
• Rosh Hashanah
• Yom Kippur
• Pesach (Passover)
• Ramadan

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

There is a threat of terrorism in Palestine, both in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, where several terrorist groups are active.

In the West Bank, attacks mainly target Israeli settlers, Israeli security forces, rival Palestinian groups or the Palestinian Authority’s security forces. There are also attacks between different factions in and around refugee camps.

Terrorists typically launch attacks from the Gaza Strip towards Israel and Israel’s Defence Forces, which often lead to violent spillovers. Attacks are unpredictable and often involve the following types of weapons and/or devices:

• improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
• vehicle-borne IEDs
• rockets and mortars
• assault weapons

Further attacks are likely.

Rocket fire

Cities across Israel may be targeted by rocket fire from the Gaza Strip or missile and rocket fire from Lebanon.

Rockets fired from and towards the Gaza Strip have reached areas in its periphery.

Crime

The crime rate is relatively low in Israel and Palestine. Despite an important presence of security personnel in major cities, petty crime may still occur in urban and touristic areas and on beaches.

There have been reports of:

• pickpocketing
• purse snatching
• theft of passports, credit cards and other valuables

There’s an increase in car thefts.

During your stay:

• make sure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• make sure that your wallet, money and valuables are out of sight, particularly in crowded tourist areas
• avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• avoid showing signs of affluence
• don’t leave luggage or valuables in a vehicle and always park your vehicle in secure facilities
• keep your car doors locked and windows closed at all times

Demonstrations and strikes

Planned and unplanned demonstrations occur regularly.

In Israel, demonstrators frequently gather to express opposition to the government in place. These demonstrations and strikes often result in disruptions to services and public transportation. They sometimes lead to violent incidents, such as vandalism and clashes between demonstrators and police. Security forces sometimes use tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds.

In the West Bank, demonstrations occur on or around religious holidays and mostly in response to ongoing events throughout the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. They often lead to clashes between demonstrators and local security forces, as well as with the Israeli security forces. Excessive force has been used to disperse crowds, including tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, stun grenades and live ammunition.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Tidal changes and strong winds can cause dangerous riptides.

• Never swim alone
• Always obey warning flags at beaches
• Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Follow the advice of the local authorities

Useful links

Roads

Road conditions

Most roads in Israel are in good condition. Roads in the Gaza Strip are severely damaged due to the ongoing conflict and military operations. In the West Bank, roads are generally in poor condition.

During the winter months, precipitation can cause difficult driving conditions and road closures across the territory.

Driving may also be dangerous due to:

• traffic jams and heavy traffic
• narrow, winding and mountainous roads
• flash floods in some regions

Driving habits

There is a high rate of road accidents due to dangerous driving habits across Israel and Palestine. Drivers often drive at excessive speed and don’t always respect the right of way, especially in roundabouts.

It’s mandatory to have a high visibility vest and a warning triangle kit in your car. If you must stop on the side of the road and get out of your car, you must wear the vest and use the triangles according to the safety instructions provided.

If you plan to drive:

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip in advance, especially if you are visiting a rural area
• always carry a cell phone and charger
• familiarize yourself with the route before you travel

Checkpoints

There are security checkpoints, mainly within the West Bank and along its barrier with Israel.

The Israel Defence Forces control access to the West Bank through a series of security checkpoints and the Palestinian Authority police may do so within their jurisdiction. Following incidents of politically motivated violence, the government of Israel may also establish additional checkpoints without warning and increase the intensity of vehicle checks. Additional measures may include frequent and extended closures of checkpoints at the discretion of Israeli Security Forces.

Officers may ask to see your valid documents. There is no guarantee that you may pass through security checkpoints even if you have a valid visa and authorization to enter.

During periods of religious holidays, checkpoint and border-crossing hours of operation are subject to change.

If travelling by car during your stay:

• expect multiple roadblocks and checkpoints
• be prepared to present your identification documents
• don’t pass through checkpoints without stopping, even if they appear unattended
• follow instructions of police or military officers if you get stopped

Public transportation

Buses

The bus system is reliable in Israel. However, violent incidents and terrorist attacks occur occasionally in public buses and at bus stops. Attacks have resulted in deaths and injuries in the past.

If you’re travelling by bus during your stay:

• be aware of your surroundings at all times
• stay behind bollards or behind the bus stop while waiting
• stand away from large groups of people
• notify the driver of any suspicious objects or persons

Trains

The Israeli train network is extensive. It covers most of the territory and links major cities, such as Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. This network does not cover the Gaza Strip and parts of the West Bank. In order to access train stations, you will have to pass a security check.

Trains in Israel are generally modern, clean and frequent.

If you’re travelling by train:

• be vigilant
• avoid travelling alone at night
• allow extra time to go through security checks
• validate your ticket to avoid fines

Taxis

Taxis are generally reliable in Israel and the West Bank. In the West Bank, they are the easiest way of moving around.

Mobile applications are also available.

If you’re taking a taxi:

• never share them with strangers
• negotiate the fare in advance
• avoid travelling alone at night

Air travel

We don’t make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of Israel and Palestine. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you’re travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the date of entry into Israel, the West Bank or the Gaza Strip.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Visas

Palestine

Palestine does not issue its own visas. To enter Palestine, travellers must pass through Israeli ports of entry and comply with Israeli entry requirements.

Israel

Tourist visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days
Business visa: not required
Student visa: not required
Work visa: required

Travellers from visa-exempt countries, including Canada, need to obtain an ETA-IL (electronic travel authorization) to enter Israel. You should submit your electronic application at least 72 hours before your expected arrival date in Israel.

If your ETA-IL application is approved, you can enter Israel and stay for a period of up to 90 days.

ETA-IL – Israeli Population and Immigration Authority

Entry card

The Government of Israel issues an entry card on arrival.

You will need this card to enter the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. However, due to the ongoing conflict, entry to and exit from the Gaza Strip is extremely limited.

Keep it in a secure place to avoid complications upon leaving Israel.

Land travel restrictions

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.

Large crowds may gather due to:

• limited hours of operations
• unannounced travel restrictions
• extended closures

This may increase risks to your personal safety.

Travel to and from West Bank

The West Bank is divided into three administrative divisions, which fall under varying degrees of administrative and security control between Palestinian and Israeli authorities.

Israel sets out the entry and exit requirements for the West Bank. In some circumstances, Israeli authorities may deny you entry into the West Bank.

You are required to obtain permits with strict conditions for:

• short-term visits
• professional, academic or volunteering purposes
• temporary residence for spouses

These new procedures apply to all foreign nationals. As a result, you may need a specific type of visa to enter the West Bank based on your purpose of travel.

If you intend to travel to the West Bank:

• contact Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the closest Israeli embassy to find out which type of permit you need to apply for
• ensure that you have the proper and up-to-date identification, travel documentation and authorization to obtain your permit
• plan your visit accordingly and apply well in advance to avoid delays.

Useful links

Travel to and from Gaza Strip

The Erez border crossing, controlled by Israel, is currently closed. The Rafah border crossing, controlled by both Egypt and Israel, has been closed since May 2024. Due to the ongoing conflict, entry to and exit from the Gaza Strip is extremely limited.

Travel to and from Jordan

As a Canadian citizen, you may travel to and from Jordan through the following border crossings:

• Jordan River/Sheikh Hussein Bridge, in the north of Israel (visa available on arrival)
• Allenby/King Hussein Bridge, near Jericho in the West Bank (visa required prior to crossing the border)
• Yitzak/Aqaba, near Eilat in the south of Israel (visa available on arrival)

The security situation may result in disruptions to movement and transportation, including border closures or restrictions, especially in the West Bank. These restrictions could make it difficult to reach the Allenby border crossing, which is the only exit option for West Bank ID holders, even if you have a Canadian passport. If you don’t have a West Bank ID, you can use the other border crossings.

Dual citizenship

Israeli-Canadians

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 exit the country on an Israeli passport
• show proof of military status upon arrival

If you are unsure of your Israeli citizenship or your military status, verify it through the Embassy of Israel to Canada or an Israeli consulate before leaving Canada.

Palestinian-Canadians

As a Palestinian-Canadian citizen, you may be subject to Government of Israel travel regulations for Palestinians. Strict border control policies may prevent you from entering to and exiting from:

• Israel
• Jerusalem
• the West Bank
• the Gaza Strip

Anyone registered in the Government of Israel’s West Bank and Gaza Strip population registries, including Canadian passport holders of Palestinian descent born in the West Bank or Gaza after 1967, is prohibited from entering Israel through Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport.

Israeli authorities are currently only allowing a limited number of Palestinians to enter into the West Bank via the Allenby Crossing (King Hussein Bridge). This rule may not apply to Palestinians with dual citizenship.

You may also be subject to the Government of Israel’s travel regulations for Palestinians if you are a Canadian born in another Arab state or if you hold dual Canadian-Arab state citizenship.

Israeli authorities may then ask you to enter and exit Israel on your Arab passport.

If the place of birth listed on the traveller’s passport does not have diplomatic relations with Israel, travellers may be subject to increased security screening at points of entry, including extensive questioning, physical searches and/or denial of entry, which can involve temporary detention before removal.

Regional travel

Some Canadians have been denied entry into Lebanon, Syria and other Arab countries because their passports bore:

• an Israeli visa
• an Egyptian or Jordanian border stamp issued by an office bordering Israel

Other entry requirement

Custom officials may ask to show a return or onward ticket as proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding – the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medication

Some prescription medication may not be available in Israel or Palestine, especially in the Gaza Strip.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality at destination.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

Medical services and facilities

Very good health care is available in Israel and Jerusalem. Adequate health care is available in the West Bank, but extremely limited in the Gaza Strip due to the extensive damage caused by the ongoing Israeli military operations Palestinian medical facilities may lack medical supplies and adequately trained professionals.

Medical treatment can be very expensive. Hospitals and doctors may require immediate payment by card or in cash.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind…

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Israel are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Israel to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Israeli authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Alcohol

Although alcohol consumption in public is illegal in the Gaza Strip, you can drink alcohol in certain areas in the West Bank. Avoid drinking alcohol outside licensed premises in the West Bank.

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• police personnel and installations

Seek permission before taking photos of people in Muslim or Orthodox Jewish areas.

Dual citizenship

Both the Palestinian and Israeli authorities recognize dual citizenship. If you hold or used to hold a Palestinian ID card, you may be considered a Palestinian national while in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip or Israel.

Foreign nationals who become naturalized citizens of Israel must forfeit their previous citizenship.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Israel or Palestine, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you’re there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Israel.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Israel, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Israeli court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Israel to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

The Hague Convention does not apply between Canada and the State of Palestine.

Religious holidays

Some Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities’ customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to religious practices and beliefs.

Tensions between religious groups are higher during religious holidays and may lead to violence.

There is a risk of assault if you travel by car in the Old City of Jerusalem and conservative neighbourhoods of Israel during Shabbat.

To avoid offending local sensitivities, especially during religious holidays:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect social and religious traditions
• seek permission from people and local authorities before taking photographs

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Israeli law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

Same-sex consensual acts are legal in Jerusalem and the West Bank.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could still be discriminated against or victims of harassment and/or violence based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

The Gaza Strip’s law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

They may also be detained and face other charges such as:

• cross-dressing
• gross indecency
• offence to public morals

2SLGBTQI+ persons could face up to 10 years of imprisonment. They should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the Gaza Strip.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Driving

You may drive in Israel using your Canadian driver’s license for up to 12 months.

Vehicles with Palestinian licence plates are not permitted to enter Israel unless granted a permit by Israeli authorities in advance. If you are planning to enter the West Bank with a rented vehicle, verify your insurance coverage and permissions with your car rental agency.

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Useful links

Money

The currency of Israel is the Israeli Shekel (ILS).

Palestine does not have an official currency, but the Jordanian Dinar (JOD), the Israeli Shekel (NIS) and the U.S. Dollar (USD) are all accepted.

ATMs are available in Israel and the West Bank, but may not accept Canadian cards. The banking system in the West Bank is fragile and mainly relies on card payments for day-to-day transactions.

In Gaza, there are no ATMs or banks. The only form of payment is cash.

Natural disasters and climate

Earthquakes

Israel and Palestine are located in an active seismic zone.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Sandstorms and dust storms

Sandstorms and dust storms occur in spring and summer in some areas. Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. These storms can also lead to respiratory problems for some individuals.

During a sandstorm:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• be prepared to change, interrupt or cancel your trip at any time
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Flooding

Heavy rains, particularly during winter, can cause flooding and landslides throughout the territory.

Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around major rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Wildfires

Wildfires may occur throughout the territory due to high temperatures and dry conditions, particularly during summer. The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a significant fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments;
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities