Making Aliyah During A War
1. Pre-Aliyah Preparation: Documentation and Local Coordination
Gather and Prepare Essential Documents
Start with key documents, including:
Proof of Jewish Heritage: This can be birth certificates, parental or grandparental documents, or letters from a recognized rabbi.
Identification: Passport, photos, and any other ID required.
Marriage or Divorce Certificates (if applicable): Some benefits or housing options consider marital status.
Medical Records and Prescriptions: Having health documentation in English or Hebrew will be useful for healthcare setup upon arrival.
Make Multiple Copies: Have digital backups in cloud storage, and make multiple physical copies. These can be helpful if you need quick access or if originals are lost in transit.
Contact the Israeli Consulate for Secure Guidance
Initiate your Aliyah process through the nearest Israeli consulate, where you can file the initial application, provide documents, and discuss any necessary travel adjustments.
Consulates often have a direct line to the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and can help expedite the process in times of conflict. They may also inform you of the latest developments or additional security precautions to consider.
2. Rely on Support Organizations for Guidance and Safety
Nefesh B'Nefesh (NBN)
Dedicated Aliyah Assistance: NBN assigns advisors who help you manage paperwork, Aliyah logistics, and initial arrival needs, including housing and employment support.
Emergency Protocols: In times of conflict, NBN can often provide special emergency relocation assistance, including temporary housing solutions in safer areas, additional financial resources, and psychological support.
Resources for Specific Needs: NBN helps immigrants with family needs, single travelers, and elderly newcomers, ensuring tailored support.
The Jewish Agency for Israel
Travel and Flight Coordination: The Jewish Agency arranges flights and handles any necessary adjustments for safe travel. They may organize group Aliyah flights with enhanced security and dedicated support staff for arrivals during conflict.
Absorption Centers: During conflict periods, the Jewish Agency may place new Olim in absorption centers away from high-conflict zones, where they can access temporary housing and language programs. This temporary arrangement allows you to safely adapt until a permanent residence is secured.
3. Stay Informed and Updated on Security Situations
Follow Real-Time Security and Travel Updates
Government Announcements: Stay updated with announcements from the Israeli government and your home country regarding travel advisories, safe routes, and any emergency assistance options.
Israeli Consulate Communication: Regularly check in with the Israeli consulate to receive information on safe travel options and possible adjustments to your itinerary.
Utilize Secure Communication Tools: Download apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, which are widely used in Israel for real-time security updates. Joining local Olim groups on these platforms can provide real-time information on local conditions and safety tips.
Be Flexible with Travel Plans
Flights may be redirected to airports in more secure areas (e.g., Ramon Airport in southern Israel instead of Ben Gurion). Be prepared for rerouting, rescheduling, or changes to arrival points.
The Jewish Agency often coordinates these changes, ensuring that you’re not left to navigate them alone. They provide support staff to guide you through rerouting and customs upon arrival.
4. Financial Preparations for Emergency Situations
Ensure Access to Funds for Several Weeks
Bring a mix of cash and international credit cards to cover basic needs for at least a few weeks. Bank services may be limited, so having local currency on hand is essential.
Set up an Israeli bank account in advance, if possible, through banks that offer online pre-registration. This allows for easier access to local banking services and prevents delays once you’re in Israel.
Access Financial Support for New Olim During Conflict
Aliyah Benefits and Stipends: The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration may offer grants for new Olim during wartime to cover essential costs, including rent, food, and transportation.
Additional Emergency Assistance: NBN can guide you through accessing special funds set up for Olim moving during emergencies, including housing subsidies and cost-of-living support.
Budget for Temporary Accommodation or Relocation
Absorption centers or short-term rentals may be necessary if your initial destination is in a conflict zone. Having a contingency fund can help cover additional living expenses until a permanent residence is available.
5. Secure Housing with Contingency Plans
Temporary Housing Options
Absorption Centers: The Jewish Agency provides temporary accommodation in absorption centers that offer basic housing, language classes, and community support. These centers are often located in safe areas and serve as a stable option until you secure a permanent home.
Emergency Host Family Programs: During conflict, some organizations, including NBN, coordinate host family arrangements, connecting Olim with families in safer parts of Israel.
Plan for Multiple Housing Options
Identify a primary housing option (e.g., a rental or absorption center) and at least one backup plan (e.g., host family or secondary center). If circumstances change upon arrival, you’ll have alternative arrangements available.
NBN and the Ministry of Aliyah can also help coordinate with landlords who offer flexible lease arrangements for new immigrants moving during conflict.
6. Register for Healthcare and Prepare for Medical Needs
Register with a Health Provider (Kupat Cholim)
Healthcare is essential during times of conflict, so enrolling in an Israeli health plan should be a priority upon arrival. New Olim typically gain healthcare access upon arrival, with assistance from the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.
Kupot Cholim (health funds) such as Clalit, Maccabi, Leumit, and Meuhedet provide comprehensive coverage. Registering early ensures access to primary care, medications, and emergency services.
Bring Medications and Medical Documentation
Carry a supply of any medications you need for several weeks, as well as prescriptions and medical records (translated into Hebrew or English if possible).
NBN can also help Olim connect with medical professionals, especially if specialized care or translation assistance is needed to obtain new prescriptions.
7. Prioritize Psychological and Social Support
Access Mental Health Services
The stress of making Aliyah during a war can be intense. Many organizations, such as NATAL (Israel Trauma Center for Victims of Terror and War), offer counseling and mental health services for new immigrants dealing with the stress of relocation during conflict.
Nefesh B’Nefesh provides mental health resources, including connections to counselors specializing in trauma support and stress management, often free of charge or at reduced rates.
Join Olim Support Networks
Social connections are crucial. Local Olim communities and online platforms, like WhatsApp groups and Facebook pages, help new immigrants build networks, access information, and find peer support.
Joining these networks can also help you stay informed about localized security updates, nearby shelters, and community resources during emergencies.
8. Develop an Emergency Contingency Plan
Identify Safe Areas and Shelter Locations
Upon arrival, locate nearby bomb shelters (miklat) and become familiar with the safety protocols for your area. Many cities and towns in Israel have well-established shelter systems.
Download the Home Front Command app (Pikud Ha’Oref), which provides real-time alerts, regional updates, and guidance on shelter locations. The app is available in multiple languages, including English.
Establish Communication with Family and Support Networks
Set up a communication schedule with family and friends back home to keep them updated on your location and safety. This provides peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Familiarize yourself with emergency hotlines and contact numbers for the Israeli police, ambulance services, and other emergency responders. This ensures you know whom to contact in case of urgent needs.
Summary of Key Steps for Making Aliyah During a War
Complete Documentation Early: Prepare all documents and work with the Israeli consulate for streamlined processing.
Rely on Nefesh B’Nefesh and the Jewish Agency: Use their resources for secure travel, housing, and immediate support.
Stay Informed on Security Protocols: Monitor advisories, prepare for travel changes, and use secure communication apps.
Budget and Access Financial Support: Ensure funds are available, and explore financial aid from the Ministry of Aliyah and NBN.
Arrange Temporary Housing and Backup Plans: Identify multiple housing options, including absorption centers or host families.
Register for Healthcare: Join a Kupat Cholim and bring essential medical supplies.
Seek Psychological Support: Use mental health resources and join Olim communities for social support.
Create a Personal Safety Plan: Identify shelters, download the Home Front Command app, and set up family communication.
By following these detailed steps, you can navigate the complexities of making Aliyah during wartime with greater confidence, security, and support. With the assistance of established organizations and careful planning, you’ll have the tools and resources needed to make your transition to Israel as safe and manageable as possible.