10 Tips for Israelis Flying to the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup requires early planning. Here are 10 essential tips for Israeli fans planning to fly.

1. Visa — Now, Not Tomorrow

B1/B2, 85, an embassy interview. Waiting times will grow longer. Apply 4-6 months in advance. Canada: eTA. Mexico: exempt.

2. Flights — 6 Months in Advance

Direct to NYC 11 hours. Google Flights + price alerts. Consider an open-jaw ticket — land in NY, return from LA.

3. Cheap Domestic Flights

Southwest, Spirit, Frontier — price varies between cities. Don't try to drive 20 hours.

4. Travel Insurance — Mandatory

An ER visit = price varies. Surgery = tens of thousands. Minimum coverage 00,000. Harel, Migdal, Clal.

5. Apps

• Uber / Lyft
• Google Maps
• The local metro app
• FIFA Fan App

6. Tipping 15-20%

Restaurants 18-20%. Bars -2 per drink. Taxis 15%. Hotel -5 per day. Keep small bills of and .

7. Weather

Houston/Dallas: 35-40°C. Miami: 32-35°C + storms. NY: 28-33°C. LA: 25-30°C. Seattle: 18-24°C.

8. Phone — eSIM

Airalo, Holafly: 10GB/0-30. T-Mobile Tourist Plan: calls + data 0/month. Free WiFi everywhere.

9. Safety

Cities are generally safe. Watch your wallet. Leave your passport at the hotel — keep a photo on your phone. Register with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Assistance Center for Israelis Abroad.

10. Time Zones

NY: -7 hours. Dallas: -8. LA: -10. A match at 19:00 NY = 02:00 in Israel.

Bonus: Tips for Israelis

Kosher food

NY and LA = hundreds of kosher restaurants. Miami too. Other cities — the Shamash Kosher Database.

Shabbat

GoDaven.com for minyanim. Hotels near Jewish communities.

Israeli Community

Facebook groups "Israelis in [city]" — local tips, apartments, recommendations.

FAQ

Do You Need a Visa?

Yes. B1/B2 for the US. Apply early.

How Much Insurance?

NIS 200-600 for two weeks. Minimum coverage 00,000.

Time Differences?

7-10 hours behind Israel. Prepare for jet lag.

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