When an 18-year-old makes Aliyah as part of a family, they are considered an adult in Israel’s legal system. Here’s an expanded look at what this means in terms of benefits, obligations, and the transition to life in Israel:

1. Eligibility for Aliyah Benefits and Sal Klita

Independent Eligibility for Financial Support

• Although they are joining family, an 18-year-old is typically eligible to receive independent benefits, including the Sal Klita (absorption basket) payments provided by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. These payments are distributed over the first six months and can help cover living expenses, Ulpan (Hebrew language classes), and initial integration costs.

• To receive Sal Klita payments, they need to open their own Israeli bank account, which allows the Ministry to transfer funds directly to them. Nefesh B’Nefesh or local Aliyah advisors can assist with this process, ensuring they understand how to manage these funds effectively.

Separate Healthcare Registration

• At 18, new immigrants must register independently with a Kupat Cholim (healthcare fund) of their choice. While they can join the same health fund as their family, they will have their own membership and benefits account. Kupat Cholim registration grants access to Israel’s healthcare system and is often covered initially through Sal Klita funds for the first six months.

2. Military Service Requirements for New Immigrants

Conscription Obligations

• New immigrants aged 18 and above are generally required to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). For an 18-year-old making Aliyah, conscription is usually expected after they’ve had some time to settle in and may be delayed to allow for completion of Ulpan and initial integration.

• The IDF provides a Tzav Rishon (initial summons) to assess new immigrants’ health, educational background, and skills, which helps determine appropriate roles within the military. Olim typically serve shorter terms than native Israelis; for example, men who make Aliyah at 18 may be required to serve around 2 years, while women’s service can be 1.5 years or less, depending on age and circumstances.

Special Support for Lone Soldiers

• If the 18-year-old is making Aliyah alone while their family remains abroad, they are recognized as a lone soldier (chayal boded) once they enlist in the IDF. Lone soldiers receive additional support from the Ministry of Defense and the IDF, including a monthly housing stipend, extra vacation days, free flights home, and assistance from organizations like Nefesh B’Nefesh and the Friends of the IDF (FIDF).

3. Education and Vocational Programs for Young Olim

Masa and Other Pre-Army Programs

• Young immigrants can join programs like Masa Israel, a government-backed initiative offering year-long programs that include language study, cultural orientation, and vocational training, often with some overlap with military preparation if conscription is pending.

• Other pre-army preparatory programs (mechinot) allow young Olim to engage in community service, leadership training, and Jewish studies, which can enrich their experience and integration into Israeli society. These programs may also prepare participants mentally and physically for the IDF, which is valuable for immigrants adjusting to a new culture and system.

Ulpan and Specialized Hebrew Programs

• An 18-year-old immigrant can attend Ulpan, where they will receive Hebrew language instruction to help them integrate and communicate more easily in daily life, work, and military settings. Several Ulpan options cater specifically to younger Olim or those preparing for IDF service, focusing on practical language skills and cultural adaptation.

4. Aliyah Benefits Specific to Young Adults

Financial Incentives and Rent Assistance

• As part of the Sal Klita and additional Aliyah benefits, young adults often receive extra support through housing stipends, especially if they are living independently. This assistance can be a significant help in high-cost urban areas like Tel Aviv or Jerusalem.

• Additional rent assistance is often available after the first year, with eligibility depending on age, family status, and location. Olim in certain development towns receive higher rent subsidies, encouraging settlement in regions that the government aims to strengthen.

Career and Education Grants

• Young adults making Aliyah may qualify for scholarships and grants for higher education in Israel. Programs through the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, alongside initiatives from Nefesh B’Nefesh, offer support for university or technical studies, which can be accessed either before or after IDF service.

• Career counseling and vocational support are also available for those planning to enter the workforce directly. Nefesh B'Nefesh's employment team helps match young Olim with internships, entry-level jobs, and networking opportunities, especially valuable for those without extensive Hebrew proficiency.

5. Family Integration and Additional Resources

Guidance and Family Support Programs

• When an 18-year-old makes Aliyah as part of a family, the entire family can benefit from orientation and support programs that help with cultural adaptation, housing, and other initial needs. Many organizations offer family-based counseling and support sessions tailored to smooth the transition process, whether they are moving to Israel for the first time or returning after years abroad.

• Family support services through local municipalities often include social work support, language workshops, and group activities for new Olim, helping young adults connect with other immigrants and Israelis their age.

Community and Social Resources for Young Adults

• Young immigrants find community within Olim groups and youth programs, often coordinated by local community centers, municipalities, and organizations like AACI (Association of Americans and Canadians in Israel). These programs offer social events, volunteering opportunities, and support for various cultural adjustments.

Making Aliyah at 18 as part of a family offers both independence and strong support networks. While they will have responsibilities similar to other adult immigrants, they also have access to resources designed to facilitate a smooth integration, from military and language preparation to financial and housing support. Organizations such as the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, Nefesh B'Nefesh, and Friends of the IDF play a critical role in ensuring young Olim can adjust successfully to life in Israel.