How to get an emergency passport for your newborn in Israel

So, you’ve booked your tickets, packed the baby onesies, and are ready to introduce your newborn to the world (or at least to overseas family).

But there’s one tiny problem: your baby’s Israeli passport hasn’t arrived yet. Don't panic: there’s a solution 😏

Here’s what to do if you find yourself needing to travel abroad with your newborn and the passport didn’t come through in time.

This guide is based on real experiences from parents in the Raising Sabras community, along with verified info from the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority.

Why would you need an emergency passport for your newborn?

If you’re within 48 hours of your international flight and your newborn doesn’t have a valid Israeli passport, you may be eligible to get a temporary (emergency) passport at Ben Gurion Airport.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime option (literally, you can only do it once per person), so it’s a great fallback if you’ve already applied for a regular passport but haven’t received it in time.

Requirements for issuing an emergency passport in Israel

You can apply for an emergency passport at Ben Gurion Airport or at a local Population Authority office if you're within 48 hours of travel and meet the following conditions:

• You have valid flight tickets that include your baby

• You have already applied for your baby’s regular biometric passport through Misrad Hapnim.

  • Note: Some community members have reported managing to get a passport without applying for a regular one beforehand

• You have proof of payment for the emergency passport

• You bring your baby with you to the appointment

What to bring with you (parent + baby)

Here’s what you should have with you at the appointment, whether at the airport or a local office:

For the baby:

• Your baby, in person

• Baby’s birth certificate and Teudat Zehut number (if available)

• Flight ticket for your baby

• 2 passport photos (you can take these at the photo booth in Ben Gurion if needed)

• Baby’s previous passport, if one was issued

For the parent(s):

• Parent(s)’ Teudat Zehut (TZ) + Sefach (the blue page)

• Proof of payment for the passport

• Flight ticket

• If only one parent is present and you’re not married: signed consent from the other parent. If you're a sole guardian, bring proof of sole guardianship

Do both parents need to be there?

It depends on your marital status:

• If you're married in Israel (through the Rabbanut), one parent can apply

• If you got married abroad but registered your wedding in Israel, one parent can apply (As one community member experienced)

• If you're not married in Israel, both parents must be present

• If you're a sole guardian, bring proof and you do not need the other parent's consent

How much does it cost?

• First-time emergency passport for a minor (under 18): 465 NIS

• If the child had a passport that was lost, stolen, or damaged (under 18): 645 NIS

You’ll need to pay in advance online and bring proof of payment.

Validity and limitations of an emergency passport for newborns in Israel

• The emergency passport is valid for 1 year

• It is not biometric

• It can only be issued once, so it’s a one-time fallback solution

Where and when to apply

Ben Gurion Airport office

• Located on the second floor, on the right-hand side. Staffed by the Population and Immigration Authority

Opening hours

• Sunday to Thursday: open 24 hours

• Friday and holiday eves: open until 2 pm

• Saturday and end of holidays: opens at 9 pm

Helpful official links (always double-check)

Always double check through these links as things change:

• Government info: emergency travel document

• Israeli passport fees and payments

• Payment form for emergency passport

Tips from our community

• Try to apply for your baby’s biometric passport as soon as you register the birth, don't wait for travel plans to come up

• Bring more documents than you think you’ll need. It’s better to have extra paperwork than be turned away

• Snap your baby’s photo in advance if you can, but the airport booth does work even for newborns (it might take a few tries)

Traveling with a baby for the first time can be an adventure. Hopefully, this gives you peace of mind if you’re in a pinch! If you’ve been through this process yourself, we’d love to hear your tips, feel free to DM us @RaisingSabras.