Israel Offers Discounted Passports During Winter Months
Translated & summarized from Cursorinfo by baba
Israel's Population and Immigration Authority is offering a seasonal discount on biometric passports from November 1, 2026, to February 28, 2027. Citizens can save on passport renewals by paying digitally, with adult passports costing 185 shekels instead of 290. The reduced rates do not cover lost or damaged documents, and ESTA applications may need to be redone for US travel.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Israel offers discounted biometric passports from November 1, 2026, to February 28, 2027.
- Adult passport fees are reduced to 185 shekels from 290 shekels during the discount period.
- Payments must be made digitally via the official government portal to receive the discount.
- Biometric data submission is allowed until April 30, 2027, for those who paid the winter tariff.
- The discount does not apply to lost, stolen, or damaged passports.
- Travelers to the US may need to reapply for ESTA after receiving a new passport.
Starting November 1, 2026, the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority will implement a seasonal discount on biometric passports, known as "darkonim." This reduced fee will be available to citizens from November 1 until the end of February 2027, aiming to help them save money on document renewals before spring and summer holidays. To qualify for the lower price, payments must be made digitally through the official government portal.
During this winter period, the cost for an adult passport will be 185 shekels, down from the usual 290 shekels, representing a saving of 105 shekels. For children, the passport fee will be 110 shekels, reduced from 145 shekels. Although the discounted payment period ends on February 28, 2027, citizens have until the end of April 2027 to submit their biometric data at the Authority's branches. This extended deadline applies to applications made under the winter tariff.
A family of two adults and two children could save a total of 280 shekels by paying online during the discount period compared to the regular online rates, and 370 shekels compared to in-person payments at service centers. Additional discounts are available for conscripts, reservists, and those performing alternative civilian service. After completing the online transaction, individuals must book an appointment via the GoVisit service or use self-service kiosks.
Authorities note that the reduced rates do not apply to passports lost, stolen, or damaged. Travelers planning trips to the United States will also need to reapply for their ESTA visa waiver if they obtain a new passport.
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