For thousands of young Jewish adults worldwide, the decision to make aliyah (immigration to Israel) and serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) represents one of the most profound expressions of Zionist commitment. This path combines the personal journey of immigration with the national duty of military service, creating a unique experience that has shaped generations of Israeli society.
The phenomenon has gained renewed significance following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, with a surge of approximately 30% in lone soldiers immigrating to Israel through programs like Garin Tzabar. Today, approximately 7,000 lone soldiers from over 60 countries serve in the IDF, making this a truly global movement.
Understanding the Legal Framework
Aliyah and Military Obligation
Under Israeli law, all Israeli citizens who meet conscription criteria are required to serve once they reach 18 years of age. For new immigrants, this obligation applies based on their age upon arrival and family status. Young immigrants of recruitment age are conscripted for regular military service only after residing in Israel for 12 months.
Recent Policy Changes
A significant policy shift occurred in recent years: the IDF will no longer draft new immigrants aged 22 to 26, in a bid to make their integration into Israeli society easier. Previously, men in this age group were required to serve a minimum of six months. Under the new policy, men who move to Israel between ages 18 and 19 will be required to serve for 32 months, and women will serve for two years. Men ages 20 and 21 will serve for two years, and women of the same age will have a one-year service.
Service Length by Age of Arrival
The duration of military service depends on your “Age of Arrival” in Israel:
For Men:
- Ages 18-19: 32 months (full service)
- Ages 20-21: 24 months
- Ages 22+: Voluntary service only
For Women:
- Ages 18-19: 24 months (32 months for combat positions)
- Ages 20-21: 12 months
- Ages 22+: Voluntary service only
Age of Arrival is determined by the immigrant’s entries and exits to Israel, as well as the length of stay of each visit. This calculation can be complex, and prospective immigrants should consult with relevant authorities for their specific situation.
Pathways to Service
1. Regular Aliyah and Conscription
The most straightforward path involves making aliyah through standard immigration procedures and subsequently being drafted. After making Aliyah, the government of Israel allots immigrants one year of acclimation before they are drafted. A Tzav Rishon (first IDF notice) will be sent to your residence roughly 9 months after receiving a Teudat Zehut (identity card).
2. Garin Tzabar Program
Garin Tzabar is a program that facilitates service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and provides a support system for Israelis and Diaspora Jews who do not have parents in Israel. Established in 1991, this comprehensive program offers:
- Pre-Aliyah Preparation: Seminars covering cultural, political, and social aspects of Israel
- Absorption Period: Four months in an absorption period before enlisting in the IDF
- Community Support: Participants are “adopted by an Israel community that quickly becomes their home away from home”
- Hebrew Training: A month and a half of extensive Hebrew Ulpan studies
The program offers support and benefits at every step, from pre-Aliyah preparations to moving to Israel, settling in, serving in the IDF, and beyond. Participants live in groups of approximately 20 on kibbutzim throughout Israel, creating strong bonds and mutual support systems.
3. Mahal Program
Mahal operates programs for non-Israeli citizens to serve in the Israeli military, requiring a minimum length of service of 18 months. This option is available for those who want to serve without making permanent aliyah.
The Lone Soldier Experience
Definition and Support
A lone soldier is a member of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) who does not have support in Israel, either because they do not have immediate family in Israel or they are estranged from their family in Israel. These soldiers receive enhanced support including:
- Higher basic salary from the IDF
- Financial assistance from government ministries
- Housing assistance and subsidies
- 30 days per year to visit family overseas
- Access to specialized support centers and programs
Recent Developments
The support infrastructure continues to expand. In December 2024, the Saban Family Lone Soldier Home planned to open in Rishon LeZion, Israel, to provide housing for more than 200 lone soldiers. In February 2025, Nefesh B’Nefesh, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, and Sheba Medical Center announced the launch of the Lone Soldiers Program Resilience Center.
The Enlistment Process
Initial Steps
After Aliyah, new immigrants receive the Tzav Rishon, an IDF pre-enlistment notice. This summons requires candidates to undergo multiple assessments: Medical Exam, Aptitude Test (Kaba Score), and Psychological Interview.
Training and Integration
The IDF offers special preparatory programs for immigrants, focusing on Israeli military culture, chain of command, and unit responsibilities. Hebrew Courses are available for non-Hebrew speakers to learn military-specific Hebrew.
Support Organizations
Several organizations provide comprehensive support:
Nefesh B’Nefesh Provides significant support, including logistical help with the Aliyah application, financial assistance, and preparatory seminars that cover IDF enlistment and life in Israel.
Lone Soldier Center in Memory of Michael Levin Focuses on helping Lone Soldiers with practical needs like housing, emotional support, and social integration.
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Provides financial support, particularly for travel home and post-service assistance.
Current Trends and Motivation
Post-October 7 Impact
The Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, significantly impacted recruitment. Garin Tzabar global director Yair Ran Peled observed a profound shift in the motivations of new recruits, noting “a noticeable strengthening in candidates’ sense of mission and motivation”. Additionally, rising antisemitism abroad serves as a powerful “push” factor, with Jewish youth on campuses experiencing difficulties due to anti-Israel sentiment.
Demographics and Origins
About a third of lone soldiers come from North America, with surveys showing that 40-50 percent of American Jews identify as Reform or Conservative. More lone soldiers come from the New Jersey cities Englewood and Teaneck than from any other American cities.
Challenges and Considerations
Language and Cultural Barriers
Hebrew proficiency remains a significant challenge. The army offers ulpan for free to all lone soldiers, recognizing that effective communication is crucial for military service.
Mental Health and Support
Mental health concerns, feelings of isolation, and logistical hurdles such as securing housing and navigating bureaucracy have all grown more acute since the war began. However, robust support systems continue to develop to address these challenges.
Post-Service Integration
According to a report by the Knesset’s Research and Information Center, half of lone soldiers left Israel immediately after completing their military service. This statistic highlights the importance of post-service support and integration programs.
Benefits and Long-Term Impact
Educational Opportunities
Veterans are eligible for tuition-free studies at Israeli universities and vocational schools. The Fund for Discharged Soldiers provides financial aid for further studies, particularly in high-demand fields such as engineering, technology, and healthcare.
Personal Development
The decision to make Aliyah and join the IDF offers a powerful sense of purpose, belonging, and identity. Many participants describe the experience as transformative, creating lifelong bonds and deep connections to Israeli society.
Practical Considerations
Financial Aspects
Participants receive a salary during military service, though the exact amount depends on position. Additionally, accommodation, food, and laundry are provided.
Family Visits
Each Lone Soldier has thirty days of vacation every year, which can be split into two trips of 15 days each. After the first year in the army, lone soldiers typically receive around 80% of ticket costs from Friends of the IDF.
Making the Decision
For those considering this path, it’s essential to understand that making aliyah to join the IDF represents a significant life commitment extending far beyond military service. The experience involves:
- Complete cultural and linguistic immersion
- Separation from family and familiar support systems
- Integration into one of the world’s most technologically advanced militaries
- Participation in Israel’s ongoing security challenges
- Potential for lifelong connections to Israel and the Jewish state
Conclusion
Making aliyah to join the IDF remains one of the most profound expressions of commitment to the Jewish state and Zionist ideals. With comprehensive support systems, established programs, and a growing international community of lone soldiers, the path has become more accessible than ever.
The recent surge in applications following October 7 demonstrates that this calling continues to resonate with young Jewish adults worldwide. Whether through Garin Tzabar, regular aliyah, or Mahal programs, those who choose this path join a distinguished tradition of service that has helped build and defend the State of Israel.
For prospective participants, thorough research, consultation with program representatives, and honest self-assessment of motivations and capabilities are essential first steps. The journey is challenging but potentially life-changing, offering opportunities for personal growth, meaningful service, and deep integration into Israeli society.
For more information about specific programs and requirements, prospective participants should contact official program representatives and Israeli government agencies directly.