For those seeking conversion to Judaism in Israel and aiming for recognition by the Chief Rabbinate and the Interior Ministry, the State’s conversion program is the most assured route. This program is operated by the Conversion Authority under the Prime Minister’s Office. Israeli citizens and permanent residents are eligible to participate directly. Non-citizens, including those on tourist, student, volunteer, or temporary residency visas, may apply to an Exceptions Committee for approval. This application must be made in person, and conversion studies can only commence after receiving approval.

Alternatively, individuals seeking a more inclusive and less bureaucratic conversion process can consider programs like ITIM’s Giyur K’Halacha Conversion Court Network. Giyur K’Halacha provides a supportive Orthodox conversion option for Israeli citizens, particularly immigrants and their children. The program offers comprehensive support from initial inquiries to educational programs and rabbinical court approvals.

Conversion Process

Study Programs

All candidates for conversion in Israel, whether through the State or alternative programs, must study Jewish law, practice, history, and values through ulpans (conversion preparatory programs). These programs, available in many languages, typically meet once or twice per week for about ten months. State-recognized ulpans include:

• Nativ – Offers a “Military Program” for IDF soldiers and National Service volunteers, and a “Civilian Program” for other Israeli citizens and permanent residents. Courses are free and available in Hebrew, English, Russian, French, Spanish, and Israeli Sign Language.

• Ami – Founded by Rabbi Chaim Druckman, offers a “Community Conversion” track and a “Personal Conversion” track for those with specific needs.

• Meir and Ora Institutes – Operated under the Meir Institute, offering separate programs for men and women in English, Russian, Spanish, and Hebrew.

• Achinoam – Based in Bnei Brak, offering courses in multiple languages.

• Beit Moriah – Offers courses in Be’er Sheva in Hebrew, Russian, and Spanish.

• Machanaim – Provides conversion courses in Russian for immigrants from the former Soviet Union.

• The Religious Kibbutz Movement – Offers French-language courses at Kibbutz Ein HaNatziv.

• Shavei Israel – Operates programs in Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and English in Jerusalem.

• Or Torah Stone – Offers Spanish-language courses in Efrat.

• Midreshet B’erot Bat Ayin – A women’s seminary with the B’not Ruth program in Bat Ayin.

Lifestyle Requirements

Candidates are expected to adopt a traditional Jewish lifestyle, including observance of Shabbat, festivals, and kosher laws. In State programs, non-Jewish spouses are required to convert, and children must be enrolled in public religious schools.

“Adoptive” Families

Candidates often connect with "adoptive" families to learn how to practice Jewish traditions. In State conversions, these families must provide certification and recommendations for the candidates.

Conversion Courts

Candidates meet with conversion court representatives at the start and end of their studies. The courts monitor the candidates’ progress, and upon completion of their studies, candidates must appear before these courts for interviews and assessments.

Ritual Circumcision and Bath Immersion

Upon successful completion of court interviews, men must undergo ritual circumcision or hatafot dam. The final step for all candidates is immersion in a mikveh (ritual bath), where they accept the mitzvot and take on Hebrew names.

State Recognition of Conversions

After completing the State conversion program, candidates receive official recognition from the Religious Affairs Ministry. Those converting through alternative programs may present their cases to municipal courts for recognition. Israel’s Chief Rabbinate also recognizes a select number of international conversion courts. For more information, individuals can contact the ITIM Assistance Center.