FAQS - Making Quick Aliyah To Israel

Olim receive many benefits from the government on arrival and for a period of time after arriving in the country

Sal Klita (Initial absorbtion package)

The misrad haklita (ministry of immigration and absorbtion) provides you with an initial cash payment at Ben Gurion Airport. You will then receive an additional bank transfer after you provide the Misrad Haklita your bank details. You will then receive six monthly instalments of Sal Klita, directly to your bank account. The amounts received are dependent on your age, marital status and children.

We have listed the most common categories below from the government website, but you should confirm with us at easy aliyah to check the latest figures for your specific circumstance.

Be aware:

If you leave Israel for a short trip or for an extended period of time during months when you are receiving Sal Klita, the payments stop automatically. Misrad Haklita will reinstate your payments automatically 14 days after your return, if it is within the first year of Aliyah. The Sal Klita payments are transferred to your bank account.

If you are a commuter and will need to travel outside of Israel for work purposes (for an Israeli employer), bring a letter from your employer and present it to Misrad Haklita. This may protect you so that your Sal Klita payments are not stopped when you leave the country.

If you leave the country and are not planning on returning within the first 12 months after your official Aliyah date, you forfeit the remainder of the Sal Klita payments.

Aliyah is the act of immigrating to Israel, and is considered a significant and historic event for Jewish people around the world. It is seen as a spiritual and physical journey towards fulfilling the Jewish people's connection to the land of Israel.

Anyone who is Jewish or has a Jewish parent, grandparent, or spouse, and who meets the eligibility requirements set by the Israeli government, is eligible to make Aliyah.

The eligibility requirements can vary depending on your personal circumstances, but generally include proving Jewish ancestry, obtaining the necessary visas and permits, passing a medical examination, and meeting other requirements set by the Israeli government. You can find more information on the eligibility requirements on the website of the Jewish Agency for Israel.

The required documents can vary based on your personal circumstances, but generally include proof of Jewish ancestry, birth certificates, passports, marriage certificates, and medical records. It is recommended that you consult with easyaliyah to get a comprehensive list of the required documents.

The first step in the Aliyah process is to contact us at easyaliyah.com. We will guide you through the process and provide you with the necessary forms and documents to complete.

Yes, there is financial assistance available for Aliyah. The assistance can also include flights to Israel, temporary housing, and other support services. The amount of assistance available depends on your personal circumstances.

The length of the Aliyah process can vary based on your personal circumstances and the specific requirements of the Israeli government. It usually takes us several weeks until we secure your visa but can take up to to a year or more through other organisations

Upon arriving in Israel, you will need to complete the Aliyah process. We will advise during your consultation with us.

The education system in Israel is divided into four main tiers: pre-primary education, primary education, secondary education, and higher education.

Compulsory education in Israel starts at age 3 and continues until age 18.

The official languages of instruction in Israeli schools are Hebrew and Arabic. English is also widely taught as a second language. Hebrew being the primary language in Jewish areas and Arabic the primary language in Arab areas

Education is largely funded by the government in Israel, and tuition fees for public schools are minimal. Private schools charge tuition fees.

The types of schools available in Israel include public schools, private schools, religious schools, and international schools.

The curriculum in Israeli schools is standardized and includes subjects such as Hebrew language, Jewish studies, English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, and physical education.

Are there any special needs schools in Israel?

Yes, Israel has a comprehensive special needs system for students with disabilities, which includes both integrated and specialised settings. Please feel free to consult us at easyaliyah.com

The national exams in Israel include the Psychometric Entrance Test (PET) for university admission and the Bagrut (matriculation) exam for high school graduation.

The requirements for university admission in Israel vary depending on the institution and program. However, most universities require a high school diploma and a good score in the Psychometric Entrance Test.

Tuition fees for higher education in Israel are relatively low (starting at about $4000) compared to other countries. However, living expenses can be high!

Yes, there are various scholarships available for Israeli students, including scholarships from the government, universities, and private organizations.

Yes, Israeli schools offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music and drama clubs, and community service programs.

School hours in Israel vary depending on the school and level of education. Generally, primary school students attend school for around six hours a day, while secondary school students attend for around eight hours a day. Most schools commence at about 08:00 but this can vary.

The academic year in Israeli schools typically runs from September 1 to June 30, with breaks for Jewish holidays and summer vacation.

Homeschooling is legal in Israel, but it is not very common. Families who choose to homeschool their children are required to register with the Ministry of Education and follow certain guidelines.

Israelis drive on the right-hand side of the road.

The minimum age to obtain a driver's license in Israel is 17.

A valid Israeli driver's license is required to operate a vehicle in Israel. Foreign visitors can drive in Israel using an international driver's license or a valid driver's license from their home country for up to one year.

Obtaining a driver's license in Israel can be a lengthy and challenging process. Applicants must pass a written test, a driving test, and a vision test!

If you have held a driving licence for 5 years outside Israel you can “swap” it for an Israeli one.

The speed limit on urban roads in Israel is 50 km/h, while the speed limit on interurban roads is 80-90 km/h. The speed limit on highways is 100-120 km/h.

The blood alcohol limit for driving in Israel is 0.05%. This is basically a couple of sips!

Yes, it is mandatory to wear seat belts in Israel for both the driver and passengers.

Yes, there are several toll roads in Israel, including the Cross-Israel Highway (route 6) the Carmel Tunnels and Fast Lane priority routes.

Parking regulations in Israel vary depending on the city and location. In some areas, parking is free, while in others, drivers must pay for parking or use a parking permit.

Penalties for violating traffic laws in Israel can include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment in certain cases.

If you are involved in a car accident in Israel, you should immediately contact the police and seek medical attention if necessary. It is also important to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved.

Israel has a wide range of medical services available, including hospitals, clinics, medical centers, emergency services, and specialty care facilities. The country is known for its high-quality medical care, advanced technology, and research and development .

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all residents of Israel. The National Health Insurance Law requires that every citizen and permanent resident of Israel be a member of one of the country's four health funds, which provide comprehensive coverage for medical services.

You can find a doctor or medical facility in Israel by using the online directory of the National Health Insurance site, which lists all of the country's health care providers. You can also ask for recommendations from friends, family members, or colleagues, or consult with your health insurance provider for a list of recommended providers

If you experience a medical emergency in Israel, call the emergency services number 101 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Emergency medical care is provided to all residents in Israel, regardless of their health insurance status.

Most medical services in Israel are covered by the national health insurance

Hebrew and Arabic are the official languages of Israel, but most medical professionals also speak English, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Some medical facilities also offer translation services for patients who do not speak Hebrew, Arabic, or English

You can make an appointment with a doctor or medical facility in Israel by calling the facility directly or through your health insurance provider. Many medical facilities also offer online appointment booking services.

Israel has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The climate is generally arid or semi-arid, and there is a significant variation in temperature and rainfall across the country.

The best time to visit Israel depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. The spring (March to May) and fall (Mid September to November) are typically the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer (June to August) can be very hot, especially in the southern regions, while winter (December to February) can be rainy and cool.

Snow is rare in most parts of Israel, but it can occur in the mountainous areas of the north, such as the Golan Heights and Mount Hermon. These areas may receive snowfall during the winter months, and some ski resorts operate there during the winter.

Israel can experience extreme heat during the summer months, especially in the southern regions. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) or higher in some areas, so it's important to take precautions to avoid heat stroke and dehydration.

Yes, Israel experiences a rainy season from October to April, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between December and February. During this time, flash floods can occur in some areas, so it's important to be aware of local weather conditions and follow any advisories or warnings.

Yes, there are several weather-related risks to be aware of in Israel, including extreme heat, flash floods (outside of Summer season), and sandstorms. It's important to stay up to date on local weather conditions and take precautions to stay safe, such as staying hydrated, avoiding flood-prone areas, and wearing protective masks during sandstorms.

Yes, there is significant variation in temperature and rainfall across different regions of Israel. The southern regions, such as the Negev Desert, are generally hotter and drier than the northern regions, such as the Galilee and Golan Heights. Coastal areas, such as Tel Aviv and Haifa, experience more moderate temperatures and higher humidity particularly from June to September.

The voltage in Israel is 230 volts, with a frequency of 50 Hz. This is the same as most European countries and may be different from the voltage used in your home country.

Israel uses Type H plugs and sockets, which have three pins in a triangular shape. If your appliances use a different type of plug, you may need to bring an adapter to use them in Israel.

Yes, it is safe to use electrical appliances in Israel, as long as they are designed to work with the 230-volt voltage and Type H plugs and sockets. If you are unsure whether your appliances are compatible, check the label or consult with the manufacturer.

Power outages are relatively rare in Israel, but they can occur during extreme weather events or other emergencies. If you experience a power outage, contact your accommodation or the local electricity provider for updates on the situation.

Most households and businesses in Israel pay for electricity on a monthly basis, based on their usage. Electricity bills can be paid online, through bank transfer, or at designated payment centres.

Yes, there are regulations and restrictions on electricity usage in Israel, particularly during times of high demand. For example, during heatwaves, the government may impose restrictions on the use of air conditioning to prevent blackouts. It's important to be aware of any restrictions and do your part to conserve electricity, especially during peak usage times.

Yes, it's important to take the same safety precautions when using electricity in Israel as you would in any other country. This includes using appliances and electrical devices according to their instructions, avoiding overloading electrical outlets, and keeping electrical devices away from water. If you have any concerns or questions about electrical safety, consult with a qualified electrician or contact the local electricity provider.

Yes, you can use your mobile phone in Israel if it is compatible with the local network. Israel uses GSM and 3G networks, so most modern smartphones should work without any issues. However, if you are using a phone from a different country, you may need to check with your carrier to ensure that it is compatible with the Israeli network.

If you are planning to use your mobile phone for calls, texts, and data in Israel, it is recommended that you purchase a local SIM card. This will give you access to local rates and plans, which can be more affordable than using your international plan. SIM cards can be purchased at most convenience stores, kiosks, and mobile phone shops.

To activate a local SIM card in Israel, you will need to follow the instructions provided by the mobile phone carrier. This usually involves inserting the SIM card into your phone and following the prompts to activate the service. You may also need to provide identification, such as a passport or national ID card.

Yes, you can use mobile data in Israel if you have a local SIM card or an international data plan. However, be aware that data usage can be expensive, especially if you are using a roaming plan. To avoid unexpected charges, consider turning off data roaming or using Wi-Fi when possible.

There are no major restrictions on mobile phone usage in Israel, but it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless you have a hands-free device. It is also prohibited to use mobile phones in some public areas, such as hospitals, libraries, and cinemas, where it may disturb others.

Yes, it is generally safe to use mobile phones in Israel. However, as with any other country, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft or other security risks. Avoid leaving your phone unattended in public places, and use a passcode or other security feature to protect your data.

You can make aliyah with a non Jewish spouse.

You will need to fulfil certain criteria to start the application process:

To gain full citizenship you will need to be married a minimum of a year (and a shared household).Less than a year then a temporary residence permit (A/5) is issued

Yes you can make Aliyah with non Jewish family members in the following cases if you are:

• The child of a Jew

• The grandchild of a Jew

Siblings and great grandchildren are not included in the Law of Return (1952).

Yes.You are required to be in Israel to apply and fulfil the following criteria:

• You need to have a valid residence permit and be a permanent resident

• You need to be married to an Israeli citizen

• Your spouse and yourself must be in a common household.

Yes you can.

The skiing season is on average from early January to March.

The resort is located at Mt. Hermon about three hours drive from Tel Aviv.

You can hire ski equipment. The resort can be particularly busy at the weekends.

Accommodation is nearby and not ‘on piste’.

The standard requirements requested from a car insurance company are:

• a valid driving licence (which needs to be exchanged within one year)

• a letter from your insurance company, or your agent, confirming any claims and convictions in the last 3 years. Failure to provide documentation will increase premiums.

Can I work in Israel without making Aliyah?

Yes. But the employer has to request a government visa for a qualifying job type:

Agriculture, nursing and construction

A foreign expert in fields such as high-tech, industrial or technology sectors.

International firms can send specialist employees to open or expand a their business in Israel.

US nationals can setup a company in Israel

Passport from an eligible country, valid for 6 months minimum

Debit or credit card to pay the eVisa application fees

Email address to receive the approved eVisa

Return or forward travel ticket and a hotel reservation

Health insurance valid for stay duration

Passport type photos

Making aliyah as a convert is possible. You require:

A conversion certificate.

A letter which explains the motivation behind your conversion process and your involvement within the Jewish community

A detailed explanatory letter by the head of the Jewish community regarding the conversion process,

A letter by the rabbi or the head of the Jewish community

‘Making aliyah’ literal meaning is ‘going up’ or to ‘ascend’

when referring to Jews migrating to the land of Israel from the diaspora.

Original use derived from the pilgrims who ‘went up’ to Jerusalem for certain festivals

such as Passover, Pentecost and Succot.

You will need to provide as a minimum the following :

Birth certificate

Passport

Proof of Judaism letter

Marriage and/or divorce certificates (if applicable)

Confirmation of being Single (if applicable)

Criminal background check

Name change certificates

4 Passport photos

All documents to be apostilled in issuing country.

An apostille is an international certification that authenticates the validity of a document issued in one of the signatory countries to the Apostille Convention. It lays out the procedure for certifying documents to avoid fraud. The certification is comparable to a notarization in domestic laws, and it normally supplements a local notarization of the document.

Apostilles are issued by the state that issued the document and usually cannot be acquired outside of that state. In the US, apostilles are issued by the state department of each state separately. In Canada, some documents will need to be authenticated by the local Canadian government prior to acquiring the Israeli consular approval.

Since 2019, the State of Israel requires apostille authentication on all official documentation relating to the Aliyah process. The following documents need authentication regardless of their issue date: Birth, Marriage, Divorce or Death certificates and Criminal background checks being the most common documents.

Choosing a healthcare provider in Israel can be challenging, especially for new Olim. They are known as Kupot Holim with four of them. Choice could be influenced by proximity to your home, any specialist services that one may require. Core services are a usually very similar. Personal research is the best here.

Police 100

Ambulance 101

Fire 102

Other useful numbers

Electric Company 103

Home Front Command 104

Child Abuse Hotline 105

Municipal Hazards/Issues 106

The price per kilowatt of electricity is around 16 cents. This is slightly below the global average. With solar heated water being used most of the year for many properties, the average household bill is cheaper compared to most European countries.

Gas (petrol) is about NIS6.80 per litre. That’s almost $2 per litre. Diesel is approximately the same price but can be substantially more expensive in certain areas. Fuel prices can vary if you are paying by cash or card and if it is a self service pump. Check before you fill!

Cheapest ‘nasty’ supermarket beer starts at about NIS4 ($1.15) for 500ml. Boutique beer like Malka is about NIS11 ($3) for 330ml. Pub beer is substantially more ranging from NIS20-35 for between 330-500ml for most types of draught beer.

Whole chickens average around NIS25 $6.50 per kilo. Discounted supermarkets can be up to 25% cheaper. Tip: Freshest chickens are usually found Monday/Tuesday.

There is much research as to who is the cheapest but this can be subjective. Depending on where you live, what day of the week and what you are buying can have a big influence on the prices. Rami Levy and Osher Ad would be two of the least expensive shops to start your search.

Yes. Most Israeli shops hold a good selection of GF food across many brands. Local and imported products for GF snacks, pasta, bread substitutes and vegetarian items feature widely throughout most stores. Choice and quality is favourable compared to Europe.