Last Updated on December 7, 2021
Renewing you American passport in Israel.
US citizens who come to Israel on an Oleh (immigrant) visa or changes their status to that of an Oleh while in Israel, automatically acquire Israeli citizenship unless they file a declaration refusing it within three months of their arrival or change of status.
The Israel Nationality Law of 1952 allows its citizens to hold dual (or multiple) citizenship. A dual national is considered an Israeli citizen for all purposes, and is entitled to enter Israel without a visa, stay in Israel according to his own desire, engage in any profession and work with any employer according to Israeli law.
US citizens can hold more than one passport or nationality. Naturalization in a foreign country, employment with a foreign government, and/or voting in a foreign election does not automatically jeopardize U.S. citizenship. Take note – all U.S. citizens, even dual nationals, must enter and depart the United States on U.S. passports.
When it comes to renewing your American passport there are some things you need to know:
1. You may renew your passport at any time before or after it expires. You never know when you may need to travel back to the United States for an emergency so renewing your passport at a convenient time is a good idea.
2. Your passport is proof of your U.S. citizenship and every U.S. citizen abroad should have valid proof of his/her citizenship at all times.
3. You cannot submit your passport directly to the United States – you must submit your application directly to the embassy here in Israel (in Jerusalem). Please note that the consulate office in Haifa has closed down.
4. Before schlepping off to the embassy, call them and check if you are eligible to renew your passport by mail. Otherwise you might have to wait a considerable amount of time for an in-person appointment.
5. Children under the age of 16 are issued passports which are valid for 5 years. If you are over the age of 16, your passport is issued and valid for 10 years. An emergency passport is valid for one year only.
6. Passport fees are determined by the type of application you are making and the exchange rate on the day. Personal checks for payment of passport fees are not accepted. You can pay in US dollars or in New Israeli Shekels at the embassy in Jerusalem or at the branch office in Tel Aviv.
7. The US Embassy website details the supporting documents you will need to provide upon your passport application.
8. The US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs states that one photograph – 51mm x 51mm is required for passport application. Photos printed on your home printer are not allowed.
9. It takes a few weeks for a passport to be processed. Bear this in mind, during the busy, holiday season it might take longer.
10. All children, including babies, must have their own passport. They cannot be included on an adult’s passport.
There are many other details according to specific circumstances that will affect your passport application. Please consult the US Embassy website for detailed information on passport services.
