Making Aliyah Israel: What You Need to Know Ahead of Moving to the Homeland

Aliyah is a Hebrew word that directly translates to rise or ascent. But many people understand it as “immigration to Israel.” If you’re Jewish, by right, you are a citizen of Israel, but to move to this stunning country, there are some factors you should know first. 

In this post, we explain the basic processes if you’re planning on moving to Israel. We’ve also provided valuable tips on what to do before your big move to your homeland. 

What to Do Before The Aliyah Process

Find an Affordable Moving Company 

First and foremost, you’ll need to find an affordable moving company that’s able to transport all your belongings to Israel. The best moving companies will offer insurance in case of lost or damaged goods. What’s more, you should choose a company that will provide various ways to move your belongings, like sea freight or truck. 

Create a Schedule for Moving 

To eliminate stress and ensure you’re organized, consider creating a schedule for moving. For example, you can create deadlines for when each room needs to be packed. You can also plan when you’d like to hand in resignations at your company and when to take your children out of school. Setting a schedule and a To-Do list will ensure you don’t forget anything important during your move. 

Create a Budget 

Moving to a new country can be expensive. You have to factor in food costs as well as air travel and accommodation. To ensure you don’t run out of funds during your moving process, you must create a budget. Use spreadsheets to calculate your expenses and make sure you have money in your savings in case of emergencies. 

Don’t Forget the Little Things  

When you plan to move abroad, you may only concentrate on the big things, such as visas or finalizing your health care. But there are many small factors to consider too. Ensure you close your utility accounts, like your internet account. You can also pack items that you may not get in Israel, like beauty products or even your favorite snacks.  

Steps to Take During the Aliyah Process 

Your Aliyah Application 

Before you arrive in Israel, you must complete your Aliyah application 8 to 10 months in advance. You may be asked to upload your documents and any relevant information to the Nefesh B’Nefesh website or other services you’re using to immigrate. 

The purpose of your application is to determine your eligibility to move to Israel. Your Nefesh B’Nefesh agent will assist you throughout the application process to eliminate mistakes and to make immigration smoother.  

Interview with an Aliyah Shaliach

As part of the immigration process, you’ll need to complete an interview with Aliyah Shaliach (representative of the Jewish Agency). During your interview, you’ll be asked to provide original copies of your required documentation. 

When you’ve completed your Aliyah application, and your documents are ready, your representative will contact the Jewish Agency to set up an interview for you. You can find a local Aliyah Shaliach by searching for them on Google. 

You’ll need the following documentation when visiting your representative: 

• Passport 

• Birth certificate 

• Marital status certificate 

• Proof of Judaism 

• Passport pictures 

• Supporting statements

• Photographs of family members moving to Israel 

• Waiver of confidentiality for each family member 

• Health declaration documents

• Letter of recommendation 

• Entry or exit form

• Proof of living outside of Israel

• Background check documentation 

You’ll need to submit all these documents along with your application to be accepted for an interview. 

Approval For Aliyah

Once your documents and application have been processed, you may be approved for making Aliyah. Your approval to immigrate to Israel will depend on the information you’ve given and your criteria with the government of Israel. You’ll be informed by the government whether you can immigrate to Israel depending on your family history and status. 

Get Your Aliyah Visa

In order to move to Israel, you must have a valid Aliyah Visa. You’ll get instructions on how to apply for your Aliyah Visa in your email from the Jewish Agency. Depending on where you live or the time of year, it can take up to 18 business days to receive your Visa. 

It’s recommended that you apply for your Visa at least two months before you’re set to fly to Israel. Your Aliyah Visa will be valid for six months. 

After Making Aliyah 

The Aliyah process doesn’t stop after you arrive in Israel. You must now spend your first few weeks in the country finalizing the process to become a citizen. When you arrive in Israel, you’ll get the following: 

• An Oleh booklet

• First cash payment of Sal Klita if you’re eligible 

• Health care registration form

• Israeli SIM card 

• Note of Future Bank Account. This must be stamped by your bank when opening an account

You’ll then have time-sensitive tasks to complete, such as driver’s license conversion, applying for a passport, and applying for taxes. You can contact Nefesh B’Nefesh to assist you if you’re not sure what to do after making Aliyah. 

Final Thoughts 

The process of making Aliyah can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Make the process easier by following this guide to assist you.