Israel Visit Visa
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    IL Israel visit visa

    Israel visit visa: the B/2 visa for Indians

    An Israel visit visa is a short stay permission for Indian travellers. Indians need a full B/2 visitor visa, not an ETA-IL, since the ETA-IL is only for visa-exempt nationalities. You apply before travel through the online eVisa-B2 route or an Israel Visa Application Centre. There is no visa on arrival, and a border officer at Ben Gurion decides entry.

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    Data current as of June 2026

    What the Israel visit visa covers

    An Israel visit visa lets Indian travellers come to the State of Israel for a short stay, usually up to 90 days. The thing that confuses many Indian travellers about Israel is the difference between the ETA-IL and the B/2 visa.

    It covers tourism, visiting family or friends, and short business visits. For Indians the correct visa is the B/2 visitor visa, since India is not on Israel’s visa-exempt list. You obtain it before travel either through the online eVisa-B2 route, introduced by the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi for Indian passport holders residing in India, or through an Israel Visa Application Centre. There is no visa on arrival for Indian passport holders.

    The ETA-IL, the Electronic Travel Authorization launched in January 2025, is only for visa-exempt nationalities and does not apply to Indians, so applying for one is a common and costly mistake. The visit visa does not allow paid employment, which needs a separate B/1 work visa. This page is a full guide: the ETA-IL versus B/2 distinction, the two B/2 routes, the fees, the documents, the photo rule, the process, and what border control checks at Ben Gurion.

    IL First, get this right

    ETA-IL or B/2 visa: which applies to you?

    The single most important thing for an Indian traveller is to apply for the right thing. The figure below shows why Indians always use the B/2 visa and never the ETA-IL.

    × ETA-IL Electronic Travel Authorization For visa-exempt countries only such as the US, Canada, Europe Does not apply to Indians ✓ B/2 visa Full visitor visa For visa-required countries including India eVisa-B2 or visa centre route Indian passport holders always apply for the B/2 visa, never the ETA-IL

    ETA-IL versus B/2 visa, June 2026 snapshot. Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il) and the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi. A visa lets you travel, but a border officer decides entry. Confirm current rules before you apply.

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il), the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, and the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, current for 2026. The ETA-IL launched on 1 January 2025 for visa-exempt nationalities only, and India is not visa-exempt, so Indian travellers need the full B/2 visitor visa. There is no visa on arrival for Indians. Rules can change, so confirm before you apply.

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    The two ways to get your B/2 visa

    Once you know you need the B/2 visa, there are two routes to apply from India. Both lead to the same B/2 visitor visa.

    Route A, online

    The eVisa-B2 route

    Introduced by the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi for Indian passport holders residing in India. You apply through the official Population and Immigration Authority portal and the approval is sent by email.

    FeeAbout 100 to 105 shekels online
    ProcessingAnnounced about 10 business days
    NoteSome applicants called for verification

    Route B, visa centre

    The Israel Visa Application Centre route

    You apply at an Israel Visa Application Centre, which handles submission only while the embassy or consulate makes the decision. Centres operate in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.

    FeeAbout 2,950 rupees plus 1,985 service
    ProcessingAbout 3 weeks, fastrack faster
    NoteDelhi and Kolkata assessed by New Delhi

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il), the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, and the Israel Visa Application Centre (israelvisa.in), current for 2026. The eVisa-B2 is an online B/2 route for Indian passport holders residing in India, with the fee paid online, and some applicants may still be asked to attend in person. The visa centre route handles submission while the embassy decides. Both produce the same B/2 visa. Fees and timelines can change, so confirm before you apply.

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    Israel visit visa options compared

    For a short visit the B/2 visa covers most purposes. This table compares the main options for Indian applicants and how each is obtained.

    Israel visit visa options for Indian applicants, 2026 snapshot
    Option How you get it Typical stay
    B/2 tourist visa eVisa-B2 online or visa centre Up to 90 days
    B/2 family or friends visit eVisa-B2 or centre, with a host letter Up to 90 days
    B/2 business visit Centre, with a company invitation Up to 90 days
    Transit For certain connecting routings Transit only
    ETA-IL Visa-exempt nationalities only Not for Indians
    B/1 work visa Ministry of the Interior, separate process Work, not a visit

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il), the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, and the Israel Visa Application Centre, current for 2026. The B/2 visitor visa covers tourism, family or friends visits, and short business visits, with a stay of up to 90 days decided at entry. The ETA-IL is for visa-exempt nationalities only and does not apply to Indians, and the B/1 work visa is a separate process. Categories can change, so confirm current details before you apply.

    For almost every short Indian visit the B/2 visa is the route, obtained online or at a visa centre. We match you to the right option for your trip.

    Where to apply at a visa centre in India

    If you use the visa centre route, applications are accepted at Israel Visa Application Centres in these cities. Applications submitted in New Delhi and Kolkata are assessed by the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi.


    New Delhi

    Mumbai

    Kolkata

    Bangalore

    Source: Israel Visa Application Centre (israelvisa.in) and the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, current for 2026. Applications are accepted at the centres in the cities listed, and those submitted in New Delhi and Kolkata are assessed by the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi. The centre handles submission only, while the embassy or consulate makes the decision. The exact list can change, so confirm the current centre for your city before you apply.

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    Documents you need for an Israel visit visa

    A complete, consistent file is the single biggest factor you control. This table shows the core documents for the B/2 visit visa.

    Israel visit visa documents for Indian applicants, 2026
    Document Who needs it Notes
    Passport and photo All applicants Valid 6 months, 2 blank pages, photo to the size rule
    Application form All applicants Online eVisa-B2 form or the centre form
    Accommodation proof All applicants Hotel booking, or host letter with Israeli ID
    Return ticket All applicants Confirmed booking or itinerary
    Financial and occupation proof Most applicants 3 months bank statements, salary slips, leave letter
    Previous passports and visas If available Helps show travel history

    Source: Israel Visa Application Centre (israelvisa.in), the Israel Population and Immigration Authority, and the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, current for 2026. The passport must be valid at least six months with two blank pages, and accommodation proof can be a hotel booking or a host letter with an Israeli identity number. If you hold a used, valid visa for the United States, Canada, the Schengen area, or Australia within the last three years, some financial documents may not be required. Confirm the current checklist before you apply.

    Strong, consistent documents that match your itinerary are what officers reward. We build and review your full file so it tells a clear, genuine story of your visit.

    The Israel visa photo rule

    A photo that does not meet the rule is a common reason an application is held. Israel sets a specific photo size, so get it right before you submit.

    5.5 x 5.5 cm
    • Size 5.5 by 5.5 centimetres, square.
    • White or light background.
    • Face occupying about 70 to 80 percent of the frame.
    • Taken within the last six months.
    • Not stapled and not heavily edited.
    • Bring two photos that meet the rule.

    Source: Israel Visa Application Centre (israelvisa.in) photo specification, current for 2026. The photo must be 5.5 by 5.5 centimetres on a white or light background, with the face occupying about 70 to 80 percent of the frame, taken within the last six months, and not stapled or heavily edited. The specification can change, so confirm the current photo rule before you submit your Israel visit visa application.

    The Israel visit visa process, in three phases

    The B/2 visa application moves through three clear phases: prepare, apply, and arrive. The rail below shows what happens in each.

    1 Prepare

    Confirm you need the B/2 visa, not an ETA-IL.

    Choose the eVisa-B2 or the visa centre route.

    Get your passport, photo, and documents ready.

    2 Apply

    Submit online for the eVisa-B2, or at the visa centre.

    Pay the fee, online or at the centre.

    Wait for the decision; some are called for verification.

    3 Arrive

    Carry your approved visa and documents to Ben Gurion.

    Answer the border officer’s questions clearly.

    The officer makes the final decision on entry.

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il), the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, and the Israel Visa Application Centre, current for 2026. The eVisa-B2 is applied for online with the approval emailed, while the visa centre handles submission and the embassy decides. A visa does not guarantee entry, since a border officer at Ben Gurion decides at arrival. Apply 30 to 90 days before travel. Confirm current details before you apply.

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    We confirm your route, prepare your file and photo, guide the application, and get you ready for Ben Gurion.

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    Israel visit visa dos and donts

    Small mistakes cause many refusals. These dos and donts keep your application honest and strong.

    Do the right things

    • Apply for the B/2 visa, not the ETA-IL.
    • Use the official portal or an authorised centre.
    • Get the photo size exactly right, 5.5 by 5.5 cm.
    • Keep your passport valid 6 months with 2 blank pages.
    • Show steady funds and clear ties to India.
    • Apply 30 to 90 days before you travel.

    Do not do these

    • Do not apply for an ETA-IL as an Indian.
    • Do not expect a visa on arrival; there is none.
    • Do not submit a photo that breaks the size rule.
    • Do not give inconsistent answers at the border.
    • Do not work in Israel on a visit visa.
    • Do not overstay your permitted days.

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il) and the Israel Visa Application Centre, current for 2026. Applying for an ETA-IL as an Indian is a common error, since Indians need the B/2 visa. There is no visa on arrival for Indians, and the photo must meet the 5.5 by 5.5 centimetre rule. Entry is decided at the border. Rules can change, so confirm current details.

    What border control checks at Ben Gurion

    A visa lets you travel, but entry is decided at the airport. Knowing what the border officer looks for helps you arrive prepared and calm.

    Be ready to

    • Explain the purpose and length of your visit.
    • Show your accommodation and return ticket.
    • Name who you are visiting, if family or friends.
    • Show funds and your ties to India.
    • Answer a short secondary interview calmly.
    • Keep your paper entry card safe.

    Helps to know

    • Entry is never guaranteed, even with a visa.
    • Be transparent rather than hiding a relationship.
    • Inconsistent answers can lead to a refusal.
    • Israel issues a paper card, not a passport stamp.
    • The officer’s decision is final at the border.

    Israel has not stamped passports since 2013, issuing a small paper entry card instead. Staying calm, consistent, and honest about your plans is the best way through a secondary interview if you are referred for one.

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority and published entry guidance, current for 2026. Entry is decided by the border officer at the port of entry, most commonly Ben Gurion airport, and a valid visa does not guarantee entry. A referral to a short secondary interview is possible. Israel issues a paper entry card rather than a passport stamp. Rules can change, so confirm current details before you rely on them.

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    How long you can stay and the rules

    A visit visa is a short stay, with the exact length set at the border. This table explains the stay, validity, extension, and entry rules for Indian travellers.

    Israel visit visa stay and rules, 2026 snapshot
    Item Detail Notes
    Maximum stay Up to 90 days Per visit, decided by border control
    Visa validity About 3 months From issue for the centre route
    eVisa-B2 validity About 90 days Online route, max stay 90 days
    Visa on arrival Not available For Indian nationals; arrange before travel
    Extension Possible Via authorities, valid reasons, while valid

    Source: Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il) and published guidance, current for 2026. A B/2 visit visa allows up to 90 days per visit, with the exact length decided at entry, and the centre-route visa is generally valid about three months from issue while the eVisa-B2 is valid about 90 days. There is no visa on arrival for Indians. An extension is possible with valid reasons and is not guaranteed. Rules can change.

    The visit visa is for short stays, not for settling. If you want to work, study, or stay longer, a separate work, student, or residence visa is needed. We explain the rules and the right path for your plans.

    What officers look for, and refusal reasons

    An Israel visit visa is approved when you apply for the right visa, show a genuine short trip, enough funds, and clear ties to India. Knowing what is checked helps you prepare.

    Common reasons for problems include applying for an ETA-IL instead of the B/2 visa, incomplete or inconsistent documents, a photo that does not meet the size rule, weak financial proof, no confirmed return ticket or accommodation, an unclear purpose, or weak ties to India. Inconsistent answers at the border can also lead to an entry refusal. Many cases can be reapplied with a stronger file.

    An Israel visit visa for Indians is the B/2 visitor visa, never the ETA-IL, applied for before travel through the online eVisa-B2 route or an Israel Visa Application Centre, for a stay of up to 90 days decided at entry. It needs a passport valid six months with two blank pages, a photo to the 5.5 by 5.5 centimetre rule, accommodation, a return ticket, and funds. There is no visa on arrival, the visa never allows paid work, and a border officer at Ben Gurion makes the final decision on entry.

    Factual overview, verified against the Israel Population and Immigration Authority (israel-entry.piba.gov.il), the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, and the Israel Visa Application Centre, current for 2026. Fees, stay periods, routes, and rules are set by the Israeli authorities and can change at any time. A visa does not guarantee entry.

    Meeting the criteria improves your chances, but the final decision rests with the Israeli authorities and the border officer. We give you a realistic view and help you build the strongest possible application.

    Speak with BestMigrationConsultant.com about your Israel visit visa

    Our immigration experts guide Indian travellers through the Israel B/2 visit visa, from clearing up the ETA-IL confusion to choosing the eVisa-B2 or visa centre route, the fees, the photo rule, the documents, and getting ready for Ben Gurion. Call +91-7670800002 or visit BestMigrationConsultant.com, and start with a free assessment today.

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    Israel visit visa frequently asked questions

    What is an Israel visit visa?
    An Israel visit visa is a short stay permission that lets Indian travellers enter the State of Israel for tourism, visiting family or friends, or business. For Indians it is the B/2 visitor visa, applied for before travel either through the online eVisa-B2 route or through an Israel Visa Application Centre. It does not allow paid work. A visa lets you travel, but a border officer at Ben Gurion makes the final decision on entry. BestMigrationConsultant.com helps Indian applicants apply for the right Israel visit visa.
    Do Indians need a visa to visit Israel?
    Yes. Indian passport holders need a full B/2 visitor visa to enter Israel, since India is not on Israel’s visa-exempt list, and there is no visa on arrival for Indians. You apply before travel through the online eVisa-B2 route or an Israel Visa Application Centre. Indians cannot use the ETA-IL, which is only for visa-exempt nationalities. BestMigrationConsultant.com confirms the correct Israel visit visa route for you.
    Do Indians need an ETA-IL for Israel?
    No. The ETA-IL, the Electronic Travel Authorization launched in January 2025, is only for citizens of visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and European nations. India is not visa-exempt, so Indian travellers cannot use the ETA-IL and instead need a full B/2 visitor visa. Applying for an ETA-IL as an Indian is a common mistake. BestMigrationConsultant.com makes sure you apply for the correct Israel visit visa.
    What is the difference between the ETA-IL and the B/2 visa?
    The ETA-IL is a quick travel authorization for visa-exempt nationalities only, and it does not apply to Indians. The B/2 visa is a full visitor visa for nationalities that require a visa, including India, and it is applied for through the eVisa-B2 route or an Israel Visa Application Centre with supporting documents. Indians always use the B/2 visa, never the ETA-IL. BestMigrationConsultant.com explains which one applies to you, which for Indians is always the B/2.
    What is the eVisa-B2 for Indians?
    The eVisa-B2 is an online B/2 visa route introduced by the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi for Indian and Sri Lankan passport holders residing in India. You apply through the official Population and Immigration Authority portal, pay the handling fee online, and the approval is sent by email. It is still a full B/2 visa, not an ETA-IL, and some applicants may still be asked to attend in person for verification. BestMigrationConsultant.com guides you through the eVisa-B2 application.
    How much does an Israel visit visa cost?
    At an Israel Visa Application Centre the reference fee is about 2,950 rupees for the visa plus about 1,985 rupees in service charges, around 4,935 rupees in total for a standard application, with fastrack priced higher. For the online eVisa-B2 route, the authority lists a handling fee of about 100 to 105 shekels, paid online. Fees are non-refundable even if refused. These figures can change, so confirm before you apply. BestMigrationConsultant.com gives you a clear cost picture for your Israel visit visa.
    How long can I stay in Israel on a visit visa?
    An Israel B/2 visit visa allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit, with the exact length decided by border control at entry. The visa is generally valid for about three months from the date of issue for the centre route, and the eVisa-B2 is valid for about 90 days. A longer stay needs an extension through the authorities with valid reasons, or a different visa. BestMigrationConsultant.com explains the stay limits and extension options for your Israel visit visa.
    What are the Israel visit visa types for Indians?
    For a short visit the main type is the B/2 visitor visa, which covers tourism, visiting family or friends, and short business visits, and is obtained through the eVisa-B2 route or an Israel Visa Application Centre. There are also transit options. Longer stays use different categories, such as the B/1 work visa or a student visa, which are separate processes. None of the visit routes allow paid work. BestMigrationConsultant.com matches you to the right Israel visit visa type for your trip.
    Where do I apply for an Israel visit visa in India?
    You apply either online through the official Population and Immigration Authority eVisa-B2 portal, or at an Israel Visa Application Centre. Centres operate in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, and applications submitted in New Delhi and Kolkata are assessed by the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi. The centre handles submission only, while the embassy or consulate makes the decision. BestMigrationConsultant.com guides you through the right Israel visit visa channel for your city.
    What documents do I need for an Israel visit visa?
    You generally need a passport valid at least six months with two blank pages, a recent photo to the size rule, a completed application form, proof of accommodation such as a hotel booking or a host letter with an Israeli identity number, a return ticket, financial proof such as the last three months of bank statements, and occupation proof such as salary slips or a leave letter. Previous passports and visas help. BestMigrationConsultant.com prepares and checks your full Israel visit visa document set.
    What are the Israel visa photo requirements?
    The photo must be 5.5 by 5.5 centimetres on a white or light background, with the face occupying about 70 to 80 percent of the frame, taken within the last six months, and it must not be stapled or heavily edited. Bringing two photos that meet this rule avoids delays. A photo that does not meet the rule is a common cause of a held application. BestMigrationConsultant.com checks your photo against the current Israel visit visa specification before you submit.
    How long does an Israel visit visa take to process?
    At a visa centre, standard processing takes around three weeks, with a minimum of about five working days excluding the submission day, and a fastrack option takes about 10 to 12 working days in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, and about four working days in Kolkata. The online eVisa-B2 has an announced processing time of about 10 business days and may be quicker, but timelines are not guaranteed. Apply 30 to 90 days early. BestMigrationConsultant.com helps you apply early so your Israel visit visa is ready in time.
    Is there an Israel visa exemption if I have a US or Schengen visa?
    There is a document simplification rather than a visa waiver. If you have a used entry or exit stamp with a valid visa for the United States, Canada, the Schengen area, or Australia within the last three years, or a used Israel visa in the past three years, then some financial documents such as the bank statement, flight ticket, or salary slip may not be required. You still apply for the B/2 visa. BestMigrationConsultant.com checks whether this simplification applies to your Israel visit visa.
    Is there a visa on arrival in Israel for Indians?
    No. Israel does not offer a visa on arrival to Indian passport holders, so you must obtain the B/2 visa before you travel, either through the eVisa-B2 route or an Israel Visa Application Centre. Arriving without a pre-arranged visa means you will not be allowed to board or enter. The ETA-IL, which some confuse with a visa on arrival, is only for visa-exempt nationalities and does not apply to Indians. BestMigrationConsultant.com helps you arrange the correct Israel visit visa before you fly.
    Can I visit Israel for business on a visit visa?
    Yes. A B/2 visit visa covers short business visits such as meetings and conferences, but it does not allow paid employment in Israel. A letter from your Indian employer and an invitation from the host company in Israel, explaining the purpose and your dates, strengthen the file, along with proof of your ties to India. Paid work needs a separate B/1 work visa through the Ministry of the Interior. BestMigrationConsultant.com prepares strong business visitor files for your Israel visit visa.
    Can I visit Israel as a tourist?
    Yes. A B/2 visit visa is for leisure and short personal travel, such as the Old City of Jerusalem, the Tel Aviv shoreline, the Dead Sea, the Negev, and Galilee, for a stay of up to 90 days as decided at entry. You show a confirmed return ticket, accommodation, and funds for the trip, along with ties to India so the officer is satisfied you will return. BestMigrationConsultant.com helps you build a clear tourist Israel visit visa application.
    What does border control check at Ben Gurion?
    At Ben Gurion airport, the border officer checks your purpose of visit, your documents, your accommodation, and your ties to India, and entry is never guaranteed even with a valid visa. You may be referred to a short secondary interview, where it helps to stay calm, consistent, and transparent about your plans and any family or friends you are visiting. Israel issues a paper entry card rather than a passport stamp. BestMigrationConsultant.com helps you prepare for a smooth Israel entry.
    Will an Israel stamp affect travel to other countries?
    Since 2013 Israel does not stamp passports at the airport, and instead issues a separate paper entry card, which helps travellers. Even so, some countries do not admit travellers with evidence of travel to Israel, so if you plan to visit those countries you should keep your paper entry card separate and seek advice. This is a factual travel-planning point, not a restriction on your Israel visa. BestMigrationConsultant.com can advise you on travel history considerations for your trips.
    Can I extend my Israel visit visa?
    An extension of a B/2 visit visa is possible in certain circumstances by applying to the relevant Israeli authority with valid reasons, before your permitted stay ends. You bring your passport, your current visa, proof of accommodation, and any supporting documents. An extension is assessed and not guaranteed. Overstaying causes problems for future travel. BestMigrationConsultant.com explains the extension options for your Israel visit visa.
    Can I bring my child on an Israel visit visa?
    Yes. Each child needs their own B/2 application and their own passport, with the photo to the size rule and the relationship documents. If a child travels with one parent, a consent letter from the other parent may be needed, and if travelling without either parent, a notarised consent letter from both parents. You carry the child’s documents and proof of the relationship. BestMigrationConsultant.com helps families prepare child Israel visit visa applications correctly.
    What should I do before I travel to Israel?
    Before you fly, check your passport has at least six months validity and two blank pages, carry your approved eVisa-B2 confirmation or your centre paperwork, and bring your return ticket, accommodation proof, funds proof, and the details of anyone you are visiting for the border officer. Be ready to answer questions about your visit at Ben Gurion. Carry printed copies. BestMigrationConsultant.com gives you a pre-travel checklist so your Israel visit goes smoothly.
    What are common reasons for an Israel visit visa refusal?
    Common reasons include applying for an ETA-IL instead of the B/2 visa, incomplete or inconsistent documents, a photo that does not meet the size rule, weak financial proof, no confirmed return ticket or accommodation, an unclear purpose, or weak ties to India. Inconsistent answers at the border can also lead to an entry refusal. Many cases can be reapplied with a stronger file. BestMigrationConsultant.com reviews your file to reduce the risk of an Israel visit visa refusal.

    About the author

    Sairam, Senior Immigration Consultant at BestMigrationConsultant.com. Sairam guides Indian travellers through short stay visit visas, including the Israel B/2 visa through the eVisa-B2 and visa centre routes, the ETA-IL distinction, and tourist and business visits, with a focus on applying for the right visa and on complete, honest files.

    Last reviewed June 2026. Figures such as fees, processing times, and stay rules are snapshots that can change, so confirm current details on israel-entry.piba.gov.il, with the Embassy of Israel in New Delhi, and at the Israel Visa Application Centre before you apply. The final decision rests with the Israeli authorities and the border officer.