The Israel Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Health announced plans to begin welcoming vaccinated groups of international travelers back to Israel through a phased approached starting May 23.

The first phase features a pilot program kicking off May 23, allowing a select number of tour groups to visit Israel. The number of groups will be determined and increase based on the overall health situation, and progress and success of the program. As of now, individual travelers will be welcomed back in a later phase likely beginning in July. At all stages, visitors will undergo a PCR test before boarding flights to Israel, and a serological test to prove vaccination upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport.

“I am happy to share the news that Israel is taking great strides in reopening to international travel this May,” said Eyal Carlin, tourism commissioner for North America. “We have been working to develop a plan that allows not only for the country to reopen to visitors, but also to ensure that everyone stays safe. We have come so far, and it is for this reason we are adapting this proactive strategy of having a phased opening. Sixty percent of Israel’s population has been vaccinated and with the United States and Israel using the same vaccines, we are hopeful that by summer we can open our doors wide and welcome every visitor to Israel who would like to come.”