Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
THE ISRAELI STAMP STIGMA
The game of wits played between travellers and diplomatic consulars across the Middle East is ratcheted up by
what's known as the 'Israeli Stamp Stigma'. In the Arabian Peninsula, all countries refuse to admit anyone whose
passport has evidence of a visit to the Jewish state - even though, from time to time, rumours abound of a relaxa-
tion of this rule in some Gulf countries. Israeli immigration officials will,
if asked,
stamp only a separate entry
card and not your passport. This is fine for travellers flying into and out of Israel, but if you are crossing into
Jordan or Egypt overland, the entry/exit stamps into those countries (marked, for example: '
taba'
or '
aqaba'
)
will be no less incriminating than an Israeli stamp.
The safest option is to arrange your itinerary so that a visit to Israel is the final stop on your tour of the Middle
East.
The sponsorship process varies greatly from country to country (and is also liable to change - check current regula-
tions with the local embassy). The documentation required also varies with each country, and processing can take any-
thing from a few days to a few weeks.
