The Department of Home Affairs has withdrawn the 90-day visa exemption for Palestinian ordinary passport holders following investigations into its abuse. Officials confirmed systemic misuse linked to relocation efforts from Gaza. The move aims to address deliberate violations while processing asylum claims.
The Department of Home Affairs announced the withdrawal of the 90-day visa exemption on December 6, 2025, after an investigation by national intelligence structures and consultations within the Security Cluster. This decision targets the exemption for Palestinian ordinary passport holders, which had been exploited deliberately and ongoingly.
Investigations revealed abuse by Israeli actors connected to 'voluntary emigration' initiatives for Gaza Strip residents. Specifically, probes into two recent charter flights carrying Palestinian passport holders uncovered systemic issues. The exemption, meant for tourism or short stays, was instead used to facilitate relocation from Gaza, amounting to mistreatment of the passengers involved.
In response, the department will process any asylum applications from these travelers in line with legal procedures. For those not seeking asylum, the original 90-day terms will still apply. This policy shift underscores efforts to prevent misuse while supporting legitimate refugee pathways amid regional tensions.