Posted on 07/19/23
National Security Adviser and National Security Council Director Tzachi Hanegbi:
"Today, the State of Israel took another important step towards its participation in the US Visa Waiver Program
Ambassadors Nides and Herzog signed a reciprocity agreement, which will enable realizing Israel’s acceptance into the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Following today’s signing, the implementation of the reciprocity outline will begin tomorrow (Thursday, 20 July 2023). This mechanism is one of the fundamental principles of the VWP and is required of every country wishing to participate in the Program.
The reciprocity outline will allow any American citizen to enter Israel, and subsequently when Israel is accepted into the program, will allow Israeli citizens to enter the USA without a visa. This reciprocity outline will apply to all American citizens, including those with dual citizenship and those who are residents of Judea and Samaria and the Gaza Strip.
Implementing this principle strengthens the unbreakable bond between our countries and directly contributes to Israel’s security.
This is an important milestone, which brings us closer to fully complying with the American government’s requirements for the VWP nomination. This achievement is the outcome of the dedicated and intensive professional work by many Israeli and American public servants, who worked hand in hand for many months towards its successful conclusion, first and foremost outgoing Ambassador Tom Nides."