Implementation of New Israeli NGO Registration and Visa Regulations – occupied Palestinian territory

INTRODUCTION

In a significant development impacting international humanitarian operations in the occupied Palestinian territories, the Israeli government has announced sweeping new visa and registration rules for international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in the West Bank and Gaza.

These measures, introduced in March 2025, grant Israeli authorities’ extensive discretion to approve or reject NGO registrations based on a broad set of political and security-related criteria. The regulations are set to tae effect within six months, requiring all currently registered NGOs to reapply under the new system or risk losing authorization to operate.