How to Extend Your Visa in Israel – Complete Guide
If you are in Israel and need to extend your visa, you must apply for an extension through the Population and Immigration Authority (Misrad HaPnim). The process varies depending on the type of visa you hold, but all applicants must complete the Application for Extension of Residence Permit/Change of Visa Category (Form AS/3) and submit the required documents.
This guide provides detailed steps on how to extend your visa in Israel, what documents you need, processing times, and key considerations.
Who Needs a Visa Extension?
A visa extension is required if:
✔️ You are on a B/2 tourist visa and wish to stay longer than the allowed period.
✔️ You hold a student visa (A/2) or work visa (B/1) and need additional time for studies or employment.
✔️ You are on an A1 temporary residency visa and wish to prolong your stay before making Aliyah.
✔️ You require an extension due to medical, family, or special circumstances.
Step-by-Step Guide to Extending Your Visa in Israel
Step 1: Complete the Visa Extension Form (AS/3)
The Application for Extension of Residence Permit (Form AS/3) must be filled out in Hebrew or English.
The form requires details such as personal information, visa type, passport details, and the reason for your extension request.
Ensure all information is accurate to avoid processing delays.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
Each visa type has slightly different requirements, but in general, you must provide:
1. General Documents Required for All Applicants
📌 Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond the requested extension period.
📌 Completed AS/3 Form – The official visa extension application form.
📌 Passport Photos – Recent passport-sized photos (5x5 cm).
📌 Proof of Financial Means – Bank statements, a return flight ticket, or a sponsor's financial affidavit.
📌 Health Insurance – Proof of valid health insurance covering the duration of your extended stay.
📌 Letter Explaining the Request – A formal letter outlining the reason for your visa extension.
2. Additional Documents Depending on Visa Type
Tourist Visa (B/2) Extension
✔️ Proof of hotel reservation, rental agreement, or host invitation letter.
✔️ Proof of sufficient funds for the extended stay.Student Visa (A/2) Extension
✔️ Enrollment letter from an accredited Israeli educational institution.
✔️ Confirmation of tuition payment.
✔️ Student ID and proof of continued academic status.Work Visa (B/1) Extension
✔️ Employer’s support letter confirming continued employment.
✔️ Proof of salary payments from an Israeli employer.
✔️ Valid work permit (if applicable).A1 Temporary Residency Visa Extension
✔️ Letter explaining why an extension is needed.
✔️ Proof of continued eligibility under the Law of Return.Medical Treatment Visa Extension
✔️ Official letter from an Israeli hospital or clinic confirming treatment.
✔️ Proof of financial ability to pay for treatment.Family Reunification or Spousal Visa Extension
✔️ Marriage certificate or proof of relationship.
✔️ Letter explaining why an extension is necessary.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Visa extension applications must be submitted in person at the Population and Immigration Authority (Misrad HaPnim).
Booking an Appointment
Many branches require an appointment before visiting.
You can book an appointment online or by calling the office.
Submitting at Misrad HaPnim (Interior Ministry)
Bring all original documents along with photocopies.
Your application will be reviewed, and you may be asked additional questions about your stay.
Applying from Outside Israel
If you are currently abroad and need an extension before returning to Israel, visit the nearest Israeli consulate or embassy to apply.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Extension Fee
The cost of extending a visa varies depending on the visa type:
Tourist Visa (B/2) Extension: Approx. 195 NIS
Student Visa (A/2) Extension: Approx. 350 NIS
Work Visa (B/1) Extension: Varies based on contract and permit conditions
Other Visa Extensions: Fees may vary, and special cases may be exempt from fees
Payment can be made via:
✔️ Credit or debit card at Misrad HaPnim offices
✔️ Online payment (in some cases)
✔️ Cash payments are generally not accepted
Step 5: Wait for Processing & Approval
Visa extension approvals may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the complexity of your case.
What Happens Next?
✔️ Approved: You will receive a sticker or stamp in your passport with your new visa expiration date.
✔️ Denied: You may be required to leave Israel before your current visa expires. If you have grounds to appeal, legal action may be possible.
Important Considerations When Extending a Visa
⚠️ Apply Before Your Visa Expires – Late applications may be rejected or result in penalties.
⚠️ Multiple Extensions Are Not Guaranteed – The government may deny repeat extension requests unless you provide a strong reason.
⚠️ Overstaying Can Lead to Penalties – Staying beyond your visa’s expiration date can result in fines, deportation, or future travel bans.
⚠️ Check Residency Requirements – If you plan to apply for Israeli citizenship in the future, your visa and residency status may affect eligibility.
How Easy Aliyah Can Help You Extend Your Visa
At Easy Aliyah, we offer professional assistance to help you extend your visa without stress. Our services include:
✅ Application Assistance – We help you complete and submit your AS/3 visa extension form correctly.
✅ Document Preparation – We review your documents to ensure they meet Israeli immigration standards.
✅ Consular & Legal Support – If needed, we assist with appeals or legal processes.
✅ Fast-Track Processing – We help you book priority appointments at Misrad HaPnim.
Avoid unnecessary delays—let us handle your visa extension for you!