How is Birthright Israel making its health and safety decisions?
We are working closely with Israel’s Ministry of Health and will maintain the highest level of precautions on our trips, making adjustments whenever necessary.
Are Birthright Israel trips resuming this summer?
Yes! While entry into Israel continues to be extremely limited, fully vaccinated or recovered people coming with Birthright Israel groups will be allowed into the country. We are working closely with Israel’s Ministry of Health and adhering to all its guidelines. You will need to present a negative PCR COVID test that was taken within 72 hours of departure, and upon arrival in Israel, you will need to take and additional PCR test and a serological (antibodies) test which we will provide for you.
Do I need to have had a COVID-19 vaccine to participate?
Yes, the government of Israel determines which tourists can enter Israel, and we follow their guidelines. Birthright Israel participants that enter Israel must be fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 FDA authorized vaccine or recovered from COVID-19 (see next question for more details). Travel is possible 7 days after the final vaccine has been administered. You’ll need to present a negative PCR COVID-19 test which was taken within 72 hours of departure and, upon arrival in Israel, you will need to take an additional PCR test as well as a serological (antibodies) test which we will provide for you.*Documentation verification of vaccine is required. Please update your COVID-19 status here.*
What if I recovered from COVID-19 and have antibodies? Can I join a trip?
Yes. If you recovered from COVID-19 and received at least one FDA authorized vaccine you may join a trip starting in July. Travel is possible 14 days after the vaccine has been administered. You’ll need to present a negative PCR COVID-19 test which was taken within 72 hours of departure and, upon arrival in Israel, you will need to take an additional PCR test as well as a serological (antibodies) test which we will provide for you. Documented verification of your recovery and vaccine is required. Please update your COVID-19 status
here.*
How will my trip be different from a regular trip due to COVID-19?
As it always has been for the last 21 years of operation, the safety and well-being of our participants and staff is our highest priority and foremost concern. The group will need to patiently wait for the PCR and serological test results before traveling to sites, all of the participants and staff will be fully vaccinated, most of the flights to Israel will be direct, your Birthright Israel group will have fewer participants, you will spend more time outdoors and visit sites that abide by the high standards of Israel’s Ministry of Health. Other than that, we can assure you that we will take all necessary measures to ensure a safe, fun and enjoyable Birthright Israel experience.
Are most people in Israel vaccinated?
Yes. Currently Israel is leading in vaccination rates, and the majority of the population over the age of 16 are already vaccinated.
Did Israel return to normal life?
Yes.There is no need to wear a mask outdoors, and anyone who is fully vaccinated or recovered can dine indoors in restaurants, stay in hotels, and attend cultural and sports events.
Do I need to take a COVID test before I travel?
Yes. You must present a negative PCR COVID test that was taken within 72 hours of departure.
Do I need to take an antibodies test in Israel?
Yes. An antibodies test will be required upon your arrival in Israel. According to the Government of Israel’s guidelines, only participants whose serological test shows antibodies will be allowed on the trip. Birthright Israel will coordinate and cover the administration of the test upon arrival.
What if I arrive to Israel and don’t have antibodies?
In the unlikely event your antibodies test is negative, you will not be able to join your group for the trip. You will be placed on the next flight back home.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. It is mandatory for you to have travel insurance for any domestic flight to your gateway city of departure. We also recommend adding travel insurance which can cover the cost of lost/stolen baggage, cameras, phones, and so on.
What is the cancelation policy?
Until you accept a trip offer, you can receive a full refund for your $250 deposit. After accepting your trip offer, you can receive the $250 if you cancel up to 35 days prior to your scheduled departure date.
Do I need a COVID test before I return to the United States?
If required, prior to your return to the United States, a PCR test will be organized for you in Israel.
Can I extend my flight and stay in Israel after my trip is over?
You will probably be able to extend your flight through the airline company. Keep in mind that if you are not planning to return with your group on the same flight you must make your changes before the conclusion of the trip and before the group return date. You will be responsible for your own PCR test prior to returning to the US.
I registered to go last year, but all trips were cancelled due to COVID-19, and now I’m older than 32. Can I still go?
Yes! If you already created your account for last summer or winter but are now over 32 years old, you can still go this summer as an exception. If you are having a problem logging into your application, please contact us at
info@goyael.com.
