Question 1

COVID-19 Notice

Accepted Answer

Due to the new Omicron variant, the Israeli Government has imposed strict restrictions on traveling to Israel. In accordance with the highest level of precaution, Birthright Israel has immediately cancelled all trips scheduled to depart until January 15th, 2022.   While we are optimistic that our trips scheduled past January 15th will depart as planned, we remain in close contact with the Ministry of Health to understand how the situation continues to evolve, and we will update all upcoming scheduled trip participants as soon as we can.   If you plan to travel past January 15th , you will need to obtain a booster vaccine if you are eligible for one. Israel will require a booster for travelers who completed their initial full vaccination more than six months from their last scheduled day in Israel. Keep in mind that a booster shot is only valid (for entry into Israel) if it was received more than 7 days prior to your arrival date (for Pfizer) and 14 days prior to your arrival date (for Moderna & JJ).   We deeply apologize for the inconvenience and look forward to seeing you in Israel soon.   For additional information, please email us at info@goyael.com.   Updated December 20th , 2021.

Question 2

Do I need to have had a COVID-19 vaccine to participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Birthright Israel participants may join a trip if they are fully vaccinated with *2 or more World Health Organization (WHO) approved vaccines. The last dose must have been administered more than 14 days prior to your arrival in Israel. *Or 1 dose of a WHO single dose vaccine

Question 3

What if I recovered from COVID-19? Can I join a trip?

Accepted Answer

Even if you have recovered from Covid-19 you may only join a trip if you meet at least one of the following guidelines: Fully vaccinated with 2 or 3 doses of the Pfizer vaccine. The date of the last dose must be 7 days or more from the date of arrival in Israel and not more than 180 days from the date of departure from Israel   Fully vaccinated with 2 or more doses of Moderna, AstraZeneca, Janseen, Johnson & Johnson, Sinovac or Sinopharm (any World Health Organization approved vaccine). The date of the last dose must be 14 days or more from the date of arrival in Israel and not more than 180 days from the date of departure from Israel

Question 4

How is Birthright Israel making its health and safety decisions?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

How will my trip be different from a regular trip due to COVID-19?

Accepted Answer

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. All of the participants and staff will be fully vaccinated and most of the flights to Israel will be direct. Upon arrival all participants and staff will be subject to a "waiting period" as a group in a hotel until second PCR test results are returned, which may take approximately 48-60 hours. Your Birthright Israel group will have fewer participants, you will spend more time outdoors, visit sites that abide by the high standards of Israel’s Ministry of Health, wear a facemask in public and keep 6 feet / 2 meters from others outside your group when possible. Participants may also take rapid antigen tests once or twice throughout the trip. Other than that, we can assure you that we will take all necessary measures to ensure a safe, fun and enjoyable Birthright Israel experience.

Question 6

Are most people in Israel vaccinated?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the majority of the population over the age of 12 are already vaccinated and currently Israel is giving 3rd booster vaccinations to its population.

Question 7

Do I need to take a COVID test before I travel?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must present a negative PCR COVID test that was taken within 72 hours of departure.

Question 8

Do I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It’s mandatory for you to have health insurance that is valid in Israel for the duration of the trip and also covers COVID-19. If you already have extended health coverage, or you purchase a plan for this trip, you’ll be required to submit this information to us at info@goyael.com.

Question 9

What is the cancelation policy?

Accepted Answer

Until you accept a trip offer you can receive the full refund of your $250 deposit. After accepting your trip offer you can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 45 days prior to your scheduled departure date.

Question 10

Do I need a COVID test before I return to the United States?

Accepted Answer

If required, prior to your return to the United States, a PCR test will be organized for you in Israel.

Question 11

Can I extend my flight and stay in Israel after my trip is over?

Accepted Answer

Birthright Israel participants may extend their stay if they wish. 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 Covid-19 test prior to returning to the US. If  you are found positive for Covid-19 within your extension period, you will be responsible for your own quarantine arrangements.  Extend Your Stay

Question 12

Do I need health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It’s mandatory for you to have health insurance that is valid in Israel for the duration of the trip and also covers COVID-19. If you already have extended health coverage, or you purchase a plan for this trip, you’ll be required to submit this information to us at info@goyael.com.

Coronavirus FAQs

Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs