There has been much discussion in recent weeks about ending the requirement to take a PCR test upon arrival at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport. Today, Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz announced that mandatory PCR testing in the airport will cease, beginning May 20th.

In another indication that Israel is loosening its Covid requirements, beginning this Tuesday, May 10th, foreign passengers will be able to present an antigen test taken before flying to Israel. The antigen test must be taken within 24 hours of departure, at a recognized laboratory. Alternatively, passengers continue to be allowed to present a PCR taken within 72 hours of departure.

Chaim V’Chessed notes that above refers solely to entry into Israel. Travelers from Israel will still need to meet the requirements of their destination country. For instance, the US continues to require negative Covid results (antigen or PCR) from all passengers over the age of two.