Israel extends foreign passport entry for citizens returning to vote

Israeli citizens with expired passports will now be able to enter the country using their valid foreign passports until December 31. The Population and Immigration Authority accepted a request from MK Gilad Kariv, chairman of the Knesset Immigration, Absorption and Diaspora Affairs Committee, to extend the deadline, which was previously set for September 30.

This decision is intended to ease the return of Israeli citizens living abroad who wish to participate in the upcoming general election scheduled for October 27. Israel's electoral system does not provide broad absentee voting options for citizens overseas, requiring most to travel to the country to cast their ballots. The extension is expected to alleviate the rush of Israelis abroad trying to arrange flights for the election.

MK Kariv approached the authority amid significant demand at Population Authority offices and reported difficulties Israelis faced in renewing their passports. He stated, "We will ensure that every Israeli who chooses to come to Israel and vote will be able to exercise their democratic right." Passport and biometric identification services typically require appointments, adding to the logistical challenges.

The move comes amid suspicions that the Likud party might attempt to hinder non-Likud voters from returning to Israel. A previous report alleged that Transportation Ministry officials had discussed limiting flights to prevent opposition supporters from reaching the country in time to vote. Likud has also threatened legal action against initiatives aimed at helping Israelis abroad travel to vote, citing concerns about potential election law violations.

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We will ensure that every Israeli who chooses to come to Israel and vote will be able to exercise their democratic right.