One of the most common questions we hear from travelers before their trip is: "Do I need a visa?" The answer depends on where you're going — and the details can change from year to year. To make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible, we've put together this practical guide covering every destination in our JOY Tours portfolio.
Israel and the Palestinian Territories
The Holy Land is the heart of what JOY Tours does, and getting there as a U.S. citizen is more straightforward than many people expect — though the rules have recently changed.
As of January 1, 2025, U.S. citizens must have an approved Electronic Travel Authorization, known as ETA-IL, to enter Israel for tourism or business purposes for stays of up to 90 days. The authorization is valid for up to two years, or until the passport expires, and allows multiple entries, with each stay limited to 90 days.
The application is completed online using a valid passport, an email address and a payment method. Travelers should complete the application before boarding their flight. Approval is often received quickly, but we recommend applying well in advance of your departure.
Israel typically does not stamp American passports. Instead, travelers usually receive an entry card upon arrival. Keep this card safe, as it may be needed during your stay.
Regarding the Palestinian Territories: Palestine has no independent visa policy for travelers entering through Israel. Visits to destinations such as Bethlehem and Jericho are generally accessed through Israeli-controlled checkpoints. You should carry your passport and entry documentation with you when moving through checkpoints.
Please note that the security situation in the region can change. We strongly recommend checking the latest U.S. Department of State travel advisory before your trip.
Egypt
Egypt — land of the Pyramids, the Nile and some of the most awe-inspiring ancient history on earth — requires a visa for U.S. citizens, but obtaining one is usually straightforward.
U.S. citizens have multiple options: a visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports, or an e-Visa applied for online in advance. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date, and at least one blank page is recommended for the visa stamp.
Current U.S. government guidance notes that a renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa on arrival is available at Egyptian airports for approximately $30 USD in exact cash. A multiple-entry visa costs approximately $60 USD. Egypt also offers an official e-Visa system for travelers who prefer to apply online before departure.
The e-Visa option is often recommended because it can reduce waiting time at arrival. Apply only through the official Egyptian e-Visa portal and avoid third-party websites charging unnecessary additional fees.
Travelers visiting only the South Sinai resort areas — including Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba and Taba — for short stays may be eligible for a free entry permission stamp. However, if your JOY Tours itinerary includes Cairo, Luxor or destinations beyond that area, the standard visa applies.
Italy
Italy is a dream destination — its ancient churches, sacred art and millennia of layered history make it a centerpiece of many JOY Tours itineraries. The good news for American travelers is that entry is currently simple.
U.S. citizens can visit Italy and the wider Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a traditional visa. You need a valid U.S. passport and must comply with standard Schengen entry conditions.
There is an important upcoming change: the European Travel Information and Authorization System, known as ETIAS, is expected to start operations in the last quarter of 2026. Once active, Americans and other visa-exempt travelers will be required to complete a brief online travel authorization before visiting Italy or other participating European countries.
The application fee will be €20 for most adult travelers. ETIAS is not a traditional visa, but it will become a required pre-travel authorization once launched.
Greece
Greece — where ancient temples meet turquoise waters, and where the roots of Western civilization run deep beneath every hillside — is equally welcoming to American visitors.
Like Italy, Greece is part of the Schengen area. U.S. citizens can currently enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, provided they meet standard entry conditions.
The upcoming ETIAS requirement will also apply to Greece once the system launches. Until then, entry remains straightforward with a valid passport.
Austria
Austria holds a special place in the story of European Christianity — its grand cathedrals, historic monasteries and Baroque churches draw visitors from around the world. For U.S. citizens, visiting is currently hassle-free.
Austria is part of the Schengen area, and U.S. passport holders can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period under current rules.
The forthcoming ETIAS system will apply to Austria once it launches. Until that date, Americans traveling for short tourism stays generally do not need a traditional visa.
Germany
Germany — from the soaring Gothic cathedrals of Cologne to the Reformation history of Wittenberg — is another destination that requires minimal paperwork for American travelers.
Germany is also part of the Schengen area, granting U.S. citizens visa-free entry for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for short tourism stays.
Germany will also be included in the upcoming ETIAS requirement. Once the system is active, U.S. travelers will need to complete online authorization before travel.
A Few Tips for Every Trip
Wherever your JOY Tours journey takes you, a few universal practices will help ensure smooth travels.
Check your passport expiration date well in advance. Many destinations and airlines expect at least six months of remaining passport validity beyond your travel dates. Always carry printed or downloaded copies of any electronic authorizations, including ETA-IL for Israel and e-Visas for Egypt.
Monitor travel advisories through official government sources, particularly for destinations where security or entry conditions can change. And if you have any questions about documentation specific to your trip, the JOY Tours team is always here to help you prepare.
The world is waiting — let us help you get there.