Comprehensive Guide to Applying for an A/5 Temporary Residency Visa in Israel
The A/5 visa is a temporary residency permit granted mainly to foreign partners of Israeli citizens or in certain humanitarian cases. It allows the holder to live, work, and access social benefits in Israel. This visa is a pathway to permanent residency and possibly citizenship after several years.
Step-by-Step Application Process for an A/5 Visa in Israel
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
The A/5 visa is issued to foreign nationals in specific circumstances, including:
✅ Foreign partners (married or common-law) of Israeli citizens
✅ Foreign spouses of Israeli permanent residents
✅ Non-Jewish individuals undergoing conversion to Judaism
✅ People granted residency for humanitarian reasons (e.g., long-term undocumented residents, asylum seekers, or victims of domestic violence)
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
A. General Documents for All Applicants
✔ Valid passport (at least 2 years valid)
✔ Completed visa application form (Misrad HaPnim form)
✔ Recent passport-sized photos (two)
✔ Proof of legal entry into Israel (passport stamp, visa)
✔ Criminal background check from your home country (translated & apostilled)
✔ Medical clearance (sometimes required)
B. Additional Documents for Foreign Partners of Israeli Citizens
✔ Israeli partner’s Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card)
✔ Proof of genuine relationship, such as:
Marriage certificate (translated & apostilled)
Joint rental agreements or property ownership documents
Shared bank accounts or bills in both names
Photos over time showing a long-term relationship
Statements from friends, family, or employers confirming the relationship
✔ If previously married: Divorce or death certificate of previous spouse
C. Additional Documents for Humanitarian Cases
✔ Documents proving exceptional circumstances, such as:
Medical reports (if applying for humanitarian reasons)
Proof of extended stay in Israel (if requesting residency based on long-term presence)
Social worker or lawyer statements
Step 3: Submit an Application at Misrad HaPnim (Ministry of Interior)
📌 Where to apply?
Applications are submitted in person at the local branch of Misrad HaPnim (Population and Immigration Authority).
Appointments are required and should be scheduled in advance via the Israel government website or by phone.
📌 Who needs to be present?
If applying as a foreign partner, you must attend with your Israeli partner.
If applying for humanitarian reasons, additional documents may be required, and you may be asked for further interviews.
📌 What happens at the first appointment?
You will open a file and submit documents.
Officers will review your case and decide whether additional information is needed.
In some cases, you may immediately receive a visa decision, while others require further investigation.
Step 4: Relationship Verification Process (for Foreign Partners)
If you are applying as a foreign spouse or partner of an Israeli citizen, the government will conduct a relationship check to ensure that the relationship is genuine.
A. Interview Process
👩💻 How it works:
Both the foreign applicant and the Israeli partner are interviewed separately.
Officials will compare answers to check for inconsistencies.
Questions will cover how you met, daily life, and future plans.
📌 Common Interview Questions:
How and where did you meet?
Where do you live? Who pays the rent/mortgage?
What is your daily routine?
Who does the cooking/cleaning in your home?
What did you do last weekend?
Have you met each other’s families?
📌 Tips for the Interview:
Be honest and consistent in your answers.
Bring supporting evidence, such as messages, emails, and photos.
If inconsistencies arise, you may be asked for a second interview.
Step 5: Background & Security Checks
After submitting the application and completing the relationship interview (if applicable), the Ministry of Interior conducts a security and background check.
📌 This process includes:
✅ Criminal record verification
✅ Security clearance by Israeli authorities
✅ Additional checks if there are past visa overstays or illegal stays in Israel
🔴 Warning: If you have a criminal record or previous immigration violations, your case may take longer or be denied.
Step 6: Decision on Your A/5 Visa Application
⏳ Processing Time:
Few months to over a year, depending on case complexity.
Relationship-based applications take 3-12 months.
Humanitarian applications may take longer.
📌 If Approved:
✅ You will receive an A/5 visa stamp in your passport.
✅ You will be issued a temporary Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card).
✅ Your visa is valid for 1 year and can be renewed annually.
📌 If Denied:
🔴 You can appeal the decision within 30 days.
🔴 A lawyer can help you file an appeal at Misrad HaPnim or in court.
Step 7: Rights & Benefits of A/5 Visa Holders
✅ Full work rights – You can work for any employer in Israel.
✅ Access to Israeli healthcare (Bituach Leumi) – Public health insurance.
✅ Eligibility for social benefits – Certain welfare services, child allowances, and subsidies.
✅ Ability to open bank accounts, rent property, and live freely in Israel.
📌 Limitations:
❌ You cannot leave Israel for extended periods, or you may lose your visa.
❌ You must renew the visa every year to maintain status.
Step 8: Renewing the A/5 Visa
🔹 The A/5 visa is valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually at Misrad HaPnim.
🔹 Each renewal requires proof that you are still in the relationship (if applicable).
🔹 You will need to show updated documents (bank statements, rental agreements, etc.).
📌 After 4-5 years on an A/5 visa, you can apply for:
✅ Permanent residency (A/1 visa)
✅ Israeli citizenship (through naturalization)
Common Questions About the A/5 Visa
1. Can I apply for an A/5 visa while on a tourist visa (B/2)?
Yes, but you must not overstay your tourist visa while applying.
2. Can I travel outside Israel while my A/5 visa is being processed?
It is not recommended as you may need to re-enter Israel on a new visa.
3. Can I apply for Israeli citizenship with an A/5 visa?
Yes, after 4-5 years, you can apply for citizenship.
4. What if I break up with my Israeli partner?
Your visa may be revoked, and you may have to leave Israel.
5. What if I overstay my visa?
You may face deportation or bans on re-entry.
Need Legal Assistance?
If you need help with your A/5 visa application, I can recommend immigration lawyers in Israel. Would you like help finding a lawyer or booking an appointment? 🚀