Making aliyah represents one of life’s most significant decisions—a journey back to the Jewish homeland that requires meticulous planning, substantial financial preparation, and careful attention to countless practical details. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to prepare successfully for your move to Israel, from the initial documentation process through your first months as a new Israeli citizen.
Timeline and Process Overview
Complete Timeline (12-Month Planning)
12 months before: Begin researching communities, schools, job markets, and gathering initial information about the aliyah process.
8-10 months before: Start collecting required documents, submit initial application to Jewish Agency or Nefesh B’Nefesh, begin Hebrew study if needed.
6-7 months before: Complete Jewish Agency interview, finalize document apostille process, begin financial planning.
3-4 months before: Receive aliyah approval, apply for aliyah visa at Israeli consulate, begin practical preparations including shipping quotes and pet documentation.
2-3 months before: Book flights, finalize housing arrangements, begin banking setup process, arrange temporary accommodation.
1 month before: Complete final preparations, organize important documents for travel, confirm shipping arrangements, prepare for departure.
The aliyah process typically takes 8-12 months from initial application to arrival in Israel, and since March 2024, new immigration procedures have introduced additional requirements and potentially longer processing times.
Recent Policy Changes (2024-2025)
As of March 2024, there are new restrictions on “split immigration” (where one spouse immigrates while the other remains abroad), which is now limited to those who are “eligible by birth,” specifically excluding spouses and converts. Additionally, olim who make aliyah after September 30, 2024 must present a marriage certificate stating their status prior to marriage (whether single, divorced or widowed).
Documentation Requirements
Essential Documents Checklist
Birth Certificate Your birth certificate must be original and cannot be replaced by a marriage certificate or other proof of identity. The certificate must include both parents’ names and requires apostille certification. Hospital issued birth certificates are not sufficient.
Valid Passport Must be valid for at least one year from your anticipated aliyah date. Make copies of the main page and any additional pages showing date extensions or name changes.
Proof of Judaism This is required for all adults in the family making aliyah. The letter must have been written in the past year on official letterhead. For those Jewish through their father or grandfather, provide a letter from a recognized rabbi listing their names. You may also be required to provide copies of your father’s birth certificate, parents’ marriage certificate, and/or grandparents’ marriage certificate.
Marital Status Documentation The state of Israel only recognizes four civil statuses: single, married, divorced or widowed. Singles must present a single certificate with apostille. Married couples need marriage certificates. If you are divorced or widowed, you must present a marriage certificate and your spouse’s divorce or death certificate, which needs to be apostilled.
Criminal Background Check From November 2024 onward, people who undergo Shinui Ma’amad – aliyah from within Israel, directly with the Misrad HaPnim – Ministry of Interior will be asked to present background checks from all countries where they have lived for more than 6 months.
Additional Documents for Families
- Health declaration forms for all family members
- Passport photos (two official photos for each family member ages 16 and above)
- Family photos (one picture including all family members together)
- Israeli entry/exit documentation for seven years prior to aliyah
Apostille and Notarization Process
The apostille process can take several weeks to months depending on your location. Key documents requiring apostille include birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, death certificates, and criminal background checks. Contact your state’s Secretary of State office (in the US) or equivalent authority in other countries to begin this process early.
Financial Planning and Budgeting
Startup Costs and Living Expenses
Initial Capital Requirements An emergency fund of at least ₪30,000–₪50,000 ($8,000–$13,000) is recommended to cover unexpected costs. This is in addition to your planned living expenses for the first 6-12 months.
Housing Costs (2025) Rental prices vary significantly by location:
- Tel Aviv: ₪8,000-₪15,000 ($2,100-$3,900) per month for 2-3 bedroom apartments
- Jerusalem: ₪6,000-₪12,000 ($1,600-$3,200) per month
- Haifa: ₪4,500-₪8,000 ($1,200-$2,100) per month
- Ra’anana/Modi’in: ₪7,000-₪13,000 ($1,800-$3,400) per month
Purchase Prices (2025) Real estate prices in Israel have risen significantly. Tel Aviv: ₪40,000–₪70,000 ($10,500–$18,500) per square meter. Jerusalem: ₪35,000–₪55,000 ($9,200–$14,500) per square meter. For a modest 3-bedroom apartment, expect to pay anywhere from ₪2 million to ₪5 million ($520,000–$1.3 million) depending on the city.
Monthly Living Expenses According to the Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics the average gross salary for 2020 across the entire economy is only NIS 12,876 a month. The average family in Israel (of two adults and two children) spends approximately NIS 12,000–13,000 a month (the average for Anglos is significantly higher).
Additional monthly costs include:
- National Insurance contributions: ₪200–₪600 ($50–$160) per month
- Private health insurance: ₪200-₪800 per month per family
- Property insurance: ₪100-₪200 per month
- Utilities and municipal taxes: ₪500-₪1,200 per month
Government Benefits and Financial Assistance
Sal Klita (Absorption Basket) Financial assistance provided by Misrad Haklita (Ministry of Aliyah and Integration). You receive an initial cash payment at Ben Gurion Airport, followed by an additional wire transfer after you give Misrad Haklita your bank details. You will receive a total of six monthly installments of Sal Klita. The government doubled the initial airport payment in 2024, replacing the second monthly payment with a larger lump sum upon arrival.
Tax Benefits New Olim who made Aliyah after January 1, 2022 will enjoy an income tax credit over a period of 4.5 years. The breakdown is: New Olim receive one point per month (242 NIS) during the first 12 months after Aliyah, three points over the next 18 months, two points over the next 12 months. Olim are eligible for tax breaks on passive and active income earned overseas for 10 years after Aliyah.
Housing Assistance Misrad Hashikun (Ministry of Housing) offers Olim Chadashim rental assistance beginning from the 7th month for those who made Aliyah on or after March 1, 2024. The period of eligibility is up to four years from the date of receiving Oleh status. Rental subsidies range from 1,000-3,000 NIS monthly depending on family size and location.
Healthcare Coverage Bituach Leumi (the National Insurance Institute), provides free basic coverage in any Kupat Cholim (health fund) of your choice for the first 6 months of Aliyah. Healthcare coverage remains free for unemployed immigrants during their first year.
Creating Your Personal Budget
Gather together all your financial information so that you have a very clear picture of your assets (what you own) and liabilities (what you owe). Your net worth statement will give you a realistic picture of what you have and what you can afford.
Income Planning Include all sources of income:
- Employment salary (research market rates for your profession)
- Sal Klita payments
- Rental assistance (starting month 7-8)
- Bituach Leumi child allowance: NIS 152 for one child, NIS 338 for two children, NIS 526 for three children and then NIS 150 for each additional child
- Investment income or pensions
- Support from family abroad
Professional Salary Expectations Currently, the average professional salary in the U.S. is $50,000+, while the average Israeli professional salary is $25,000-35,000, with an annual growth rate of over 6%. However, the gap is narrowing, and job opportunities in Israel are especially plentiful to Western-trained and experienced professionals.
Housing and Community Selection
Choosing Your Community
Popular Anglo Communities
- Ra’anana: Family-friendly with excellent schools and large English-speaking population
- Modi’in: Modern planned city between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem
- Beit Shemesh: Mix of secular and religious communities, affordable housing
- Efrat: Religious community in Gush Etzion
- Netanya: Coastal city with established Anglo community
- Jerusalem neighborhoods: Katamon, German Colony, Baka (expensive but central)
- Tel Aviv areas: Ramat Aviv, Herzliya (high cost of living)
Housing Timeline and Strategy You need to have an Israeli address ready to provide before your aliyah date. More importantly, you have to go somewhere, and hotels are expensive. Many people go with an AirBNB.
Temporary Accommodation Options
- Extended family or friends (most economical)
- AirBNB/vacation rentals (1-3 months while searching)
- Absorption centers (primarily for younger olim or those without resources)
- Hotel apartments (expensive but convenient)
Long-term Housing Search Start your housing search before arrival through:
- Facebook housing groups for your target community
- Israeli real estate websites (Yad2, WinWin, Madlan)
- Real estate agents specializing in Anglo clients
- Synagogue and community bulletin boards
Mortgage and Purchase Assistance
On arrival in Israel, you can negotiate a mortgage with a government-approved mortgage bank. The down payment in Israel is normally 50% and mortgages are long-term, 15 to 30 years. 25% of the government-approved mortgage is a grant which is forgiven after 15 years for olim.
Shipping and Moving Your Belongings
Shipping Options and Timeline
Shipping Types When shipping to Israel, we offer two options: partial shipment and container shipment. Partial Shipment: Your household goods are packed and wrapped at your residence, then taken to our warehouse for consolidation at a later date. Container Shipment: Your container is loaded directly at your residence.
Timing Your Shipment One of my absolute key tips about aliyah is to send your lift so that it arrives around the same time as you. The last few months in your old home will be nuts anyway, you can live without your stuff for a few weeks to months. Then, you get your stuff when you arrive, and can feel at home and not need to buy tons of temporary items.
Transit times vary by location:
- East Coast US: 4-6 weeks
- West Coast US: 6-8 weeks
- Europe: 2-4 weeks
- Australia: 6-10 weeks
What to Bring vs. What to Buy
Essential Items to Ship
- Books and sentimental items
- Professional tools and equipment
- Children’s toys and comfort items
- Clothing (especially larger sizes)
- Linens and towels
- Small kitchen appliances (with voltage converters)
Items to Avoid Shipping
- Large appliances (voltage and size differences)
- Furniture (expensive to ship, different measurements)
- Electronics requiring 110V (though some can be converted)
- Perishable or restricted items
Electrical Considerations Israel uses 220V electricity with Type H plugs. Most North American appliances require voltage converters or transformers. Check if your devices can handle dual voltage (many modern electronics can) before investing in converters.
Customs and Import Procedures
New olim receive significant customs benefits including:
- Duty-free import of household goods
- Vehicle import benefits (with restrictions)
- Professional equipment exemptions
Customs clearance is an administrative review of your inventory and the completion of a few forms. The process typically takes 5-10 business days after arrival.
Bringing Pets to Israel
Documentation Requirements
Basically, your pet needs to have an internationally-readable microchip, get two rabies shots, a rabies titer, and a physical exam that gets signed off by your state’s USDA (in the US). The physical exam has to be within ten days, but no sooner than three days, before your flight.
Detailed Pet Preparation Timeline 3-4 months before: Begin rabies titer testing process (can take 1-3 months for results) 2 months before: Ensure all vaccinations are current 1 month before: Schedule USDA/CFIA certification appointment 10 days before: Complete health certificate with licensed veterinarian 3-2 days before: USDA/CFIA endorsement of health certificate
Restricted Breeds It is prohibited to import a dog belonging to one of the following dangerous breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff), Bull Terrier, Fila Brazileiro, Staffordshire Bull Terrier (English staff), Tosa Inu (Japanese Tosa), Rottweiler and Argentinian Dogo.
Airlines and Travel In practical terms, you should strongly consider using a pet travel service company or an airline that transports live animals on a cargo plane. El Al has specific regulations that may differ from their published guidelines, so confirm details directly with the airline.
Healthcare Transition
Choosing a Kupat Cholim
Israel’s healthcare system operates through four health maintenance organizations:
- Clalit: Largest with most comprehensive coverage
- Maccabi: Good technology integration and customer service
- Leumit: Smaller but often highly rated for service
- Meuhedet: Focuses on preventive care
Medical Records Transfer
Essential Medical Documentation
- Complete medical histories for all family members
- Vaccination records (especially for children)
- Prescription medication lists with generic names
- Specialist reports and test results
- Dental and optical records
Medication Considerations Research whether your current medications are available in Israel. Some medications may not be approved, require different dosages, or need specialist prescriptions. While basic ulpan courses are offered for free, many olim opt for additional language tutoring or private classes to improve their Hebrew skills. Expect to pay around ₪2,500–₪6,000 ($650–$1,600) for more advanced programs - this also applies to medical terminology if needed for chronic conditions.
Education and Children
School System Integration
Public vs. Private Education Israel offers excellent public education with minimal costs. Private schools exist but are less common than in North America. In areas such as private education and medical insurance, the costs in Israel are much lower than those in the United States.
Language Integration Support Schools provide special programs to help immigrant children adjust to Hebrew language instruction. Most communities with significant Anglo populations have teachers experienced in helping English-speaking children transition.
Educational Benefits Candidates up to the age of 27 can receive assistance for Mechina (preparatory year course). Candidates up to the age of 27 can receive assistance for a BA and candidates up to the age of 30 can receive assistance for an MA.
Transcript and Credential Recognition
Academic Records Bring official transcripts from all schools attended, including:
- High school diplomas and transcripts
- University degrees and transcripts
- Professional certifications
- SAT/ACT scores if applicable
Professional License Recognition South African professionals, particularly doctors and teachers, may need to have their qualifications recognized or complete additional certification in Israel. This applies to professionals from all countries - research requirements for your specific field well in advance.
Employment Preparation
Job Market Research
High-Demand Sectors
- Technology and software development
- Healthcare (especially with credential recognition)
- Education (particularly English-language instruction)
- Finance and accounting (with Israeli certification)
- Engineering
- Research and development
Professional Networking The online job board features hundreds of English-speaking positions from thousands of companies across Israel. NBN Upgrade offers courses to help Olim retrain and understand the Israeli job market in the areas of hi-tech, marketing, fundraising, finance and more.
Language Preparation
Hebrew Study Options Free Hebrew Ulpan course, available in many locations around Israel. The address that appears on an Oleh’s Teudat Zehut dictates the location of that individual’s Ulpan. Olim can access the Ulpan benefit up to 18 months after Aliyah. A standard, subsidized Ulpan course lasts for 5 months (5 days a week, 5 hours a day).
Pre-Aliyah Hebrew Study Begin Hebrew study before making aliyah to ease transition:
- Online programs (Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, HebrewPod101)
- Local synagogue or Jewish community center classes
- Private tutoring
- Hebrew immersion programs in Israel (short-term visits)
Banking and Financial Setup
Opening Israeli Bank Accounts
Required Documentation
- Passport and Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID)
- Proof of address in Israel
- Letter from employer (if employed)
- Initial deposit (varies by bank)
Banking Benefits for Olim Israeli banks offer special packages for new immigrants including:
- Reduced fees for the first 1-2 years
- Preferential exchange rates
- Assistance with mortgage applications
- English-speaking customer service
International Money Transfers Research the most cost-effective methods for transferring money to Israel:
- Bank wire transfers (traditional but expensive)
- Specialist transfer services (Wise, Remitly, etc.)
- PayPal (for smaller amounts)
- Cryptocurrency (for tech-savvy users, regulatory compliance required)
Tax Planning
US-Israel Tax Treaty The recent U.S.-Israel Tax Treaty specifically exempts Social Security benefits received by retirees living in Israel from any tax. However, US citizens must still file annual tax returns and may owe taxes on Israeli income.
Professional Consultation Consult with tax professionals familiar with both countries’ tax systems:
- US certified public accountant with international experience
- Israeli tax advisor familiar with olim issues
- Consider consultation before making aliyah to optimize tax strategies
Technology and Communications
Mobile Phone and Internet
Cellular Providers
- Cellcom: Largest coverage area
- Partner (Orange): Good urban coverage
- Pelephone: Competitive pricing
- Hot Mobile: Newer provider with attractive packages
Internet Services
- Bezeq: National provider with fiber optic options
- Hot: Cable and fiber services
- Partner: Telecommunications and internet packages
Digital Life Setup
Essential Apps for Olim
- Waze (navigation, essential in Israel)
- Moovit (public transportation)
- Google Translate with Hebrew offline support
- Yad2 (classifieds and real estate)
- Israeli banking apps
- Municipal apps for your city
Cultural and Social Preparation
Cultural Integration Tips
Israeli Communication Style Israelis tend to be direct communicators. What might seem rude in other cultures is often just straightforward conversation. Don’t take directness personally.
Social Customs
- Friday afternoon and Shabbat are family/quiet time
- Israelis are generally informal (first names, casual dress)
- Physical affection among friends is common
- Hospitality is highly valued - accept invitations when offered
Language Immersion Strategy Even with limited Hebrew, show effort to communicate in Hebrew. Most Israelis appreciate the attempt and will be patient with beginners.
Final Month Preparations
Documentation Organization
Misrad Hapnim (Ministry of Interior) sometimes requests to see original documents at the time of your Aliyah processing. We recommend bringing your original documents with you on the flight and NOT checking them in with your baggage.
Essential Documents Folder (Carry-On)
- Passports and aliyah visas
- Birth certificates with apostilles
- Marriage/divorce certificates with apostilles
- Criminal background checks
- Medical records summary
- Educational transcripts
- Proof of Judaism documentation
- Pet import permits (if applicable)
- Financial records and bank statements
Digital Backup Strategy
- Scan all important documents to cloud storage
- Email copies to yourself in multiple accounts
- Share copies with trusted family members abroad
- Store on encrypted USB drive as backup
Last-Minute Logistics
Address Changes
- Notify banks, credit card companies, and investment accounts
- Update address with IRS and other tax authorities
- Arrange mail forwarding or use mail forwarding service
- Cancel unnecessary subscriptions and memberships
Practical Preparation Items Access to a printer. Our old printer died a month or so before we moved. I thought this would be no problem (isn’t everything digital/app-based anyway?), but it turns out you actually need a printer for a lot of last things/first things, for example, printing the pet approval letter to import your pet to Israel.
Immediate Post-Arrival Needs What you’ll be sleeping on. If you didn’t bring your mattresses, you will want to order new ones right away, even if you’re with family/friends or accommodations, as they take some time to arrive (often three to six weeks).
Post-Arrival Checklist (First 30 Days)
Immediate Priorities (Days 1-7)
- Open Israeli bank account
- Register with chosen Kupat Cholim
- Apply for Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID)
- Register children for school
- Register with Misrad Haklita for benefits processing
- Purchase basic necessities and arrange temporary living setup
Essential Setup (Days 8-30)
- Obtain Israeli driver’s license (if needed)
- Register for Ulpan Hebrew classes
- Set up utilities and municipal services
- Register for municipal taxes (Arnona)
- Begin job search or professional licensing process
- Join community organizations and social groups
- Establish medical care relationships
Common Challenges and Solutions
Bureaucratic Navigation
Language Barriers Most government offices have some English-speaking staff, but come prepared with a Hebrew-speaking friend or translator app for complex issues.
Document Requirements Israeli bureaucracy often requires more documentation than expected. Keep multiple copies of all documents and be prepared for additional requests.
Timeline Expectations Processes often take longer than anticipated. Build buffer time into all plans and maintain patience with the system.
Financial Adjustments
Cost of Living Shock Many items cost significantly more than in North America or Europe. Adjust expectations and shopping habits accordingly.
Income Transition Job searches may take 3-6 months. Ensure adequate savings to cover this period without stress.
Social Integration
Professional Networks Join professional associations and attend networking events in your field. LinkedIn is widely used in Israel’s business community.
Community Involvement Participate in synagogue, community center, or volunteer activities to build social connections and improve Hebrew.
Long-Term Success Strategies
Financial Stability
Define the goals that will deem your Aliyah a success and set them down in writing. Recognize the difference between needs and wants. Build a budget — and keep to it.
Investment and Retirement Planning
- Understand Israeli pension system (Keren Pensia)
- Maintain US retirement accounts if beneficial
- Consider Israeli investment options
- Consult with financial advisors familiar with both systems
Career Development
Skill Enhancement Invest in Hebrew language improvement and Israeli professional certification where needed. Consider additional training to meet local market demands.
Network Building Professional success in Israel often depends heavily on personal relationships. Invest time in building authentic professional and personal networks.
Cultural Integration
Patience and Perspective Successful aliyah requires patience with yourself and the process. Cultural integration takes time, typically 1-3 years to feel fully settled.
Realistic Expectations Remember that the standard of living is very different in Israel to that of other countries in the Western world. The disposable income is lower, and the cost of living is high, but there are elements such as education that are cheaper.
Conclusion
Making aliyah successfully requires comprehensive preparation across multiple areas of life. While the process can seem overwhelming, thousands of families complete this journey successfully each year. The key is starting early, staying organized, and maintaining realistic expectations about the challenges and timeline involved.
Making Aliyah to Israel in 2025 means joining over 27,000 new immigrants who moved to Israel since April 2024, despite global uncertainties. You’re not alone in this journey—extensive support systems exist to help new olim succeed.
Remember that aliyah is not just a physical move but a cultural and spiritual journey. While the practical preparations are essential, maintaining flexibility, patience, and a positive attitude will serve you well as you build your new life in Israel. The investment in careful preparation will pay dividends in making your absorption smoother and your long-term success more likely.
Final Tip: Connect with families who have recently made aliyah from your community. Their firsthand experience and practical advice will prove invaluable in navigating challenges you hadn’t anticipated and confirming you’re on the right track with your preparations.
Success in aliyah comes from thorough preparation combined with realistic expectations and patience with the process. With careful planning and the right mindset, your move to Israel can be the beginning of an incredibly rewarding new chapter in your life.