Aliyah Application - Jewish Agency & Nefesh

B'Nefesh

Overview of Aliyah Organizations

Two primary organizations facilitate aliyah worldwide:

**1.        The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) **- Global aliyah authority

**2.        Nefesh B'Nefesh (NBN) **- Partnership for North American & UK aliyah

PART 1: THE JEWISH AGENCY FOR ISRAEL (JAFI)

What is the Jewish Agency?

Official Role:

ï           Quasi-governmental organization

ï           Authorized by Israeli government to process aliyah

ï           Operates worldwide

ï           Established 1929 (modern form: 1971)

ï           Works with Israeli Ministry of Interior

Geographic Coverage:

ï           Worldwide presence

ï           Operates in 70+ countries

ï           Shlichim (emissaries) in major cities

ï           Coordinates all aliyah globally

Responsibilities:

ï           Screen applicants for eligibility

ï           Verify documentation

ï           Conduct interviews

ï           Coordinate with Israeli government

ï           Provide pre-aliyah guidance

ï           Arrange flights

ï           Coordinate absorption (klita)

Jewish Agency Structure

Headquarters:

ï           Jerusalem, Israel

ï           Coordinates all global operations

Regional Offices:

ï           North America

ï           Latin America

ï           Europe (multiple offices)

ï           Former Soviet Union

ï           South Africa

ï           Australia

ï           Scattered locations worldwide

Local Representatives (Shlichim):

ï           Sent from Israel

ï           Based in major Jewish communities

ï           Conduct local interviews

ï           Provide information sessions

ï           Available for consultations

Jewish Agency Application Process

Step 1: Initial Contact How to Connect:

ï           Website: https://www.jewishagency.org

ï           Local Jewish Agency office

ï           Israeli consulate

ï           Community shaliach (emissary)

Initial Consultation:

ï           Free informational meeting

ï           Eligibility assessment

ï           Document requirements discussed

ï           Questions answered

ï           Timeline explained

What to Bring:

ï           Basic identification

ï           Family information

ï           Questions about eligibility

ï           General timeline goals

Step 2: Document Collection Required Documents (Standard): Personal Identity:

ï           Passport (valid, all pages)

ï           Birth certificate (original or certified copy)

ï           Marriage certificate (if married)

ï           Divorce decree (if divorced)

ï           Death certificate (if widowed)

ï           Name change documents (if applicable)

Proof of Jewish Identity:

ï           Birth certificates (parents, grandparents)

ï           Ketubot (marriage contracts)

ï           Bar/Bat Mitzvah certificates

ï           Conversion certificates (if converted)

ï           Rabbi letters

ï           Synagogue membership records

ï           Jewish lifecycle documents

ï           Photos of Jewish events

ï           Community letters

For Children:

ï           Birth certificates (all children)

ï           Custody documents (if divorced)

ï           Other parent's consent (if applicable)

ï           School records

ï           Medical records

ï           Adoption papers (if adopted)

Background Checks:

ï           Criminal background checks (all countries lived 6+ months)

ï           FBI check (USA)

ï           ACRO certificate (UK)

ï           RCMP check (Canada)

ï           SAPS certificate (South Africa)

ï           Apostilles as needed

Financial/Professional:

ï           Resume/CV

ï           Professional licenses (doctors, lawyers, etc.)

ï           Academic diplomas and transcripts

ï           Professional certifications

ï           Military discharge papers (if served)

Medical:

ï           Medical history forms

ï           Vaccination records

ï           Prescriptions list

ï           Doctor's letters (if special needs)

ï           Disability documentation (if applicable)

Housing:

ï           Proof of residence

ï           Rental agreements (if currently renting)

ï           Property ownership documents

Step 3: Complete Application Forms Main Forms:

Tofes Aliyah (Main Application):

ï           Personal information

ï           Family information

ï           Jewish identity details

ï           Education and profession

ï           Hebrew knowledge

ï           Military service history

ï           Housing preferences

ï           Health information

ï           Criminal history disclosure

Per Family Member:

ï           Spouse form

ï           Children's forms (each child)

ï           Supporting family members

Additional Forms:

ï           Medical questionnaire

ï           Financial disclosure

ï           Security questionnaire

ï           Housing preferences

ï           Absorption center selection (if using)

Languages:

ï           Forms available in multiple languages

ï           Can complete in your native language

ï           Hebrew translation assistance available

Step 4: Document Submission How to Submit:

Option 1: In Person

ï           Schedule appointment

ï           Bring all documents

ï           Meet with shaliach

ï           Documents reviewed on spot

ï           Questions answered immediately

ï           Best for complex cases

Option 2: By Mail

ï           Send to local Jewish Agency office

ï           Certified/tracked mail recommended

ï           Keep copies of everything

ï           Receipt confirmation

ï           Slower processing

Option 3: Electronic (Some Countries)

ï           Upload documents to portal

ï           Not available everywhere

ï           Originals may still be needed later

What to Submit:

ï           Completed application forms

ï           Original documents (or certified copies)

ï           Translations (where needed)

ï           Apostilles (where required)

ï           Photos (passport-style, recent)

ï           Payment (if any fees)

Organization Tips:

ï           Use clear labels

ï           Organize chronologically

ï           Separate by person (family members)

ï           Include cover letter/document list

ï           Number pages

ï           Make complete copy for yourself

Step 5: Document Review Initial Review:

ï           Jewish Agency staff review

ï           2-6 weeks typically

ï           Check for completeness

ï           Verify translations

ï           Identify missing items

Request for Additional Documents:

ï           Common - expect follow-up requests

ï           Clarifications needed

ï           Additional proof required

ï           Expedite responses

ï           Keeps process moving

Common Requests:

ï           Additional generation of birth certificates

ï           More detailed rabbi letters

ï           Clarification of name changes

ï           Better quality document scans

ï           Additional proof of Jewish identity

ï           Criminal background explanations

Step 6: Interview (Reiyon) Scheduling:

ï           Once documents approved

ï           2-8 weeks wait typical

ï           Can be longer in busy periods

ï           Interview with shaliach or at consulate

Location:

ï           Local Jewish Agency office

ï           Israeli consulate

ï           Sometimes via video conference

ï           In Israel (if applying from there)

Who Attends:

ï           All adult applicants (18+)

ï           Spouse must attend

ï           Children 16+ should attend

ï           Younger children optional

What to Bring:

ï           Identification (passport)

ï           All original documents

ï           Additional documents requested

ï           Questions for interviewer

ï           Notepad

Interview Topics:

Identity Verification:

ï           Who you are

ï           Your Jewish background

ï           Family history

ï           Connection to Judaism

ï           Why making aliyah

Document Review:

ï           Verify originals match copies

ï           Clarify discrepancies

ï           Explain gaps

ï           Confirm relationships

Background Questions:

ï           Where you've lived

ï           Education and career

ï           Military service

ï           Criminal history (if any)

ï           Health issues (if any)

Aliyah Plans:

ï           When you want to arrive

ï           Where you plan to live

ï           Housing plans

ï           Work/study plans

ï           Hebrew language level

ï           Family support in Israel

Expectations:

ï           Understanding of absorption

ï           Realistic about challenges

ï           Financial readiness

ï           Commitment to Israel

Interview Tips:

Do:

ï           Be honest and straightforward

ï           Answer questions directly

ï           Bring supporting documents

ï           Ask questions

ï           Take your time

ï           Show genuine connection to Judaism/Israel

ï           Bring family timeline/tree if helpful

ï           Explain any complications clearly

Don't:

ï           Lie or exaggerate

ï           Argue with interviewer

ï           Be defensive

ï           Omit information

ï           Rush through answers

ï           Show lack of preparation

ï           Bring children to adult-focused interview

ï           Expect immediate approval

Interview Outcomes:

ï           **Approved **- Move to next stage

ï           **Additional documents needed **- Submit and reschedule

ï           **Conditional approval **- Pending something specific

ï           **Referred to committee **- Complex cases

ï           **Denied **- Can appeal or reapply

Step 7: Security Clearance Shin Bet Approval:

ï           Israeli internal security service

ï           Background screening

ï           All applicants undergo this

ï           Done by Israel (not you)

Process:

ï           Automatic once interview passed

ï           Jewish Agency submits your file

ï           No action needed from you

ï           Can take 2 weeks to 6+ months

What They Check:

ï           Criminal history

ï           Security concerns

ï           Interpol database

ï           International law enforcement

ï           Terrorism connections

ï           Risk assessment

Timeline:

ï           Clean background: 2-6 weeks

ï           Common name: Longer (verify identity)

ï           Criminal history: 2-6 months

ï           Complex cases: 6+ months

ï           Can request updates

Clearance Outcomes:

ï           **Approved **- Most common

ï           **Additional information needed **- Submit requested items

ï           **Delayed **- Be patient

ï           **Denied **- Can appeal

ï           **Conditional **- Restrictions imposed

Step 8: Final Approval & Flight Arrangement Aliyah Approval:

ï           Received via email/phone

ï           Certificate of eligibility issued

ï           Valid for limited time (usually 6-12 months)

ï           Must make aliyah within validity period

Flight Coordination:

ï           Jewish Agency coordinates

ï           El Al charter flights (group aliyah)

ï           Or individual flights arranged

ï           Free aliyah flight provided

ï           Can choose your date (within reason)

ï           Limited baggage allowance

Pre-Departure:

ï           Final document check

ï           Medical clearance (if needed)

ï           Packing guidance

ï           Pre-aliyah seminars

ï           Connect with other olim

ï           Last-minute questions

Aliyah Flight:

ï           Receive Israeli passport mid-flight (symbolic)

ï           Land as Israeli citizen

ï           Welcome ceremony at airport

ï           Ministry of Interior processing

ï           Immediate benefits begin

Jewish Agency Timeline Summary:

PART 2: NEFESH B'NEFESH

What is Nefesh B'Nefesh?

Organization Overview:

ï           Founded 2002

ï           Private non-profit organization

ï           Partnership with Jewish Agency & Israeli government

ï           Specializes in North American & UK aliyah

ï           Streamlines and enhances aliyah process

Mission:

ï           Remove obstacles to aliyah

ï           Provide enhanced services

ï           Financial assistance

ï           Employment support

ï           Professional guidance

ï           Post-aliyah support

Geographic Coverage:

ï           **United States **(primary)

ï           Canada

ï           **United Kingdom **(since 2007)

ï           Only these countries

ï           Others use Jewish Agency alone

Not a Replacement - A Partnership:

ï           Works WITH Jewish Agency

ï           Not instead of Jewish Agency

ï           Combined application

ï           Best of both organizations

ï           Seamless process

Nefesh B'Nefesh Application Process

**Important: **NBN applicants also complete Jewish Agency process. NBN adds services and support.

Step 1: Determine NBN Eligibility Who Can Apply Through NBN:

ï           U.S. citizens

ï           Canadian citizens

ï           U.K. citizens

ï           Dual citizens (including above)

ï           Green card holders (permanent residents)

ï           Must be eligible for aliyah (Jewish Agency criteria)

Who Cannot Use NBN:

ï           Citizens of other countries

ï           Even if currently living in USA/Canada/UK

ï           Temporary visa holders

ï           Must apply through Jewish Agency only

Why Apply Through NBN: Enhanced Services:

ï           Personal guidance counselor assigned

ï           Employment assistance

ï           Professional licensing help

ï           Financial grants (qualifying applicants)

ï           Community connections

ï           Post-aliyah follow-up (years)

ï           Pilot programs for professionals

Financial Benefits:

ï           Financial assistance grants

ï           Employment grants

ï           Young professionals programs

ï           Loan guarantees

ï           Community incentive grants

ï           Regional bonuses

Practical Support:

ï           Resume building (Hebrew)

ï           Job fairs

ï           Networking events

ï           Professional mentorship

ï           Housing assistance

ï           Community integration

Step 2: NBN Application Apply Online:

ï           Website: https://www.nbn.org.il

ï           Create account

ï           Complete NBN application

ï           Separate from Jewish Agency forms

ï           Additional questions

NBN-Specific Information: Professional Information:

ï           Detailed work history

ï           Skills assessment

ï           Professional goals in Israel

ï           License requirements

ï           Job search plans

Financial Information:

ï           Current financial status

ï           Savings

ï           Debts

ï           Income needs

ï           Budget planning

Hebrew Level:

ï           Current proficiency

ï           Study plans

ï           Ulpan preferences

Housing Plans:

ï           Where you want to live

ï           Own vs. rent

ï           Absorption center vs. direct

ï           Community preferences

Support Needs:

ï           What help you need

ï           Special circumstances

ï           Family situation

ï           Professional assistance needed

Step 3: NBN Counselor Assignment Personal Counselor:

ï           Assigned based on profile

ï           Background in your field

ï           Familiar with your situation

ï           Point of contact throughout

Counselor Role:

ï           Answer questions

ï           Guide documentation

ï           Career advice

ï           Housing guidance

ï           Problem-solving

ï           Pre and post-aliyah support

Communication:

ï           Email primary

ï           Phone calls scheduled

ï           Video meetings

ï           Available throughout process

ï           Responsive to questions

Step 4: Concurrent Jewish Agency Process NBN Coordinates:

ï           Submit to Jewish Agency on your behalf

ï           Track your application

ï           Follow up on documents

ï           Schedule interview

ï           Communicate status

ï           Problem-solve issues

You Still:

ï           Provide all documents to Jewish Agency

ï           Attend Jewish Agency interview

ï           Meet all eligibility requirements

ï           Pass security clearance

Advantage:

ï           NBN as liaison

ï           Expert guidance

ï           Troubleshooting help

ï           Streamlined communication

Step 5: NBN Programs & Grants Financial Assistance:

Basic Aliyah Grant:

ï           All NBN olim eligible

ï           Amounts vary by program

ï           Released in stages

ï           Post-arrival distribution

Employment Grant:

ï           For those seeking work

ï           Based on professional field

ï           Competitive process

ï           Post-arrival job search support

Yeshiva/Seminary Programs:

ï           Religious study programs

ï           Gap year students

ï           Partnership programs

ï           Special grants available

Regional Incentive Grants:

ï           For settling in development areas

ï           Negev, Galilee, etc.

ï           Higher grant amounts

ï           Community building focus

Professional Programs: Medical Professionals:

ï           Doctors, nurses, therapists

ï           Licensing assistance

ï           Hebrew medical terminology

ï           Hospital placements

ï           Fast-track programs

Legal Professionals:

ï           Lawyers seeking to practice

ï           Israeli bar exam preparation

ï           International law opportunities

ï           Legal Hebrew

High-Tech Professionals:

ï           Engineers, developers

ï           Job placement assistance

ï           Networking events

ï           Startup connections

Educators:

ï           Teachers, professors

ï           School placements

ï           Credential evaluation

ï           Education system guidance

Step 6: Pre-Aliyah Preparation NBN Services:

Employment Assistance:

ï           Resume review (Hebrew)

ï           LinkedIn profile optimization

ï           Job search strategies

ï           Networking introductions

ï           Interview preparation

ï           Contract review

Professional Licensing:

ï           Requirements by profession

ï           Application processes

ï           Exam preparation

ï           Timeline planning

ï           Translation services

Housing Search:

ï           Real estate agents

ï           Rental market guidance

ï           Neighborhood information

ï           Budget planning

ï           Lease review

Community Integration:

ï           Anglo communities

ï           Religious communities

ï           Professional networks

ï           Family resources

ï           Social connections

Practical Guidance:

ï           Banking setup

ï           Phone service

ï           Health insurance

ï           School enrollment

ï           Transportation

ï           Daily life logistics

Pre-Aliyah Events:

NBN Mega Events:

ï           Large gatherings (hundreds)

ï           Information sessions

ï           Meet other olim

ï           Professional workshops

ï           Community showcases

ï           Usually 1-2 per year

Webinars:

ï           Weekly topics

ï           Professional tracks

ï           Regional focuses

ï           Recorded for viewing

ï           Q&A sessions

Local Events:

ï           Regional gatherings

ï           Smaller groups

ï           Networking

ï           Practical workshops

Step 7: Aliyah Flight & Arrival NBN Charter Flights:

ï           Group flights organized

ï           Several times per year

ï           Festive atmosphere

ï           Meet other olim

ï           Staff accompaniment

ï           Landing ceremony

Individual Flights:

ï           Can arrange separately

ï           Still receive benefits

ï           Reimbursement provided

ï           Flexibility in timing

Airport Arrival:

ï           NBN staff present

ï           Welcome ceremony

ï           Immediate assistance

ï           First paperwork help

ï           Transportation options

First Days:

ï           NBN office visit

ï           ID card assistance

ï           Bank account opening

ï           Phone service

ï           Essential registrations

Step 8: Post-Aliyah Support Ongoing Services:

First Year - Intensive:

ï           Regular counselor contact

ï           Job search support

ï           Problem-solving

ï           Community integration

ï           Grant distributions

ï           Life coaching

Years 2-5:

ï           Continued availability

ï           Professional development

ï           Network building

ï           Community events

ï           Alumni services

Beyond:

ï           Lifetime NBN community

ï           Events and programs

ï           Professional networking

ï           Giving back opportunities

Employment Services:

ï           Job fairs (in Israel)

ï           Networking events

ï           Professional groups

ï           Career counseling

ï           Resume updates

ï           Job leads

Community Building:

ï           Regional groups

ï           Professional networks

ï           Social events

ï           Family programs

ï           Holiday celebrations

PART 3: JEWISH AGENCY vs. NEFESH B'NEFESH COMPARISON

Key Differences

Who Should Use Which?

Must Use Jewish Agency Only:

ï           Citizens of countries other than USA/Canada/UK

ï           Living in other countries

ï           No choice - Jewish Agency is mandatory

Should Use Nefesh B'Nefesh (if eligible):

ï           U.S., Canadian, or UK citizens

ï           Want enhanced support

ï           Need employment assistance

ï           Professional licensing help needed

ï           Appreciate personal guidance

ï           Value community connections

ï           **Why not? **No disadvantage to using NBN

**Recommendation: **If eligible for NBN (USA/Canada/UK), definitely use it. Free extra services, no downside.

PART 4: APPLICATION TIPS & BEST PRACTICES

Document Organization

Create Master File:

Physical Binder:

1.        Cover letter with document checklist
2.        Your documents (chronological)
3.        Spouse's documents (if applicable)
4.        Children's documents (each child)
5.        Proof of Jewish identity
6.        Background checks
7.        Professional documents
8.        Financial documents
9.        Medical documents
10.     Correspondence log

Digital Backup:

ï           Scan everything (high quality)

ï           Organize in folders

ï           Cloud storage

ï           Multiple backups

ï           Accessible anywhere

Tracking Sheet:

ï           Document name

ï           Date obtained

ï           Expiration date (if any)

ï           Status (pending/complete)

ï           Notes

Timeline Planning

Recommended Timeline:

12-18 Months Before Target Aliyah Date:

ï           Initial research

ï           Attend information session

ï           Contact Jewish Agency/NBN

ï           Begin document collection

9-12 Months Before:

ï           Complete document collection

ï           Obtain background checks

ï           Get apostilles

ï           Complete application forms

6-9 Months Before:

ï           Submit application

ï           Attend interview

ï           Begin security clearance

ï           Start Hebrew study

3-6 Months Before:

ï           Receive approval

ï           Arrange flight

ï           Job search (if applicable)

ï           Housing search

ï           School enrollment (if children)

1-3 Months Before:

ï           Finalize arrangements

ï           Sell/ship belongings

ï           Say goodbyes

ï           Pre-aliyah programs

ï           Final preparations

Why Start Early:

ï           Document collection takes time

ï           Background checks slow (especially South Africa)

ï           Unexpected delays common

ï           Want flexibility in timing

ï           Less stress

ï           Better preparation

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1.  Incomplete Documentation

ï           **Problem: **Missing documents delay everything

ï           **Solution: **Get complete list upfront, collect thoroughly

2.  Poor Quality Documents

ï           **Problem: **Faded, damaged, illegible documents rejected

ï           **Solution: **Obtain new certified copies, scan in high quality

3.  Name Change Issues

ï           **Problem: **Names don't match across documents

ï           **Solution: **Document every name change, explain clearly

4.  Waiting Too Long for Background Checks

ï           **Problem: **Delays entire process

ï           **Solution: **Start immediately, especially South Africa (6+ months)

5.  Inadequate Proof of Jewish Identity

ï           **Problem: **Weak documentation causes delays

ï           **Solution: **Gather multiple supporting documents, rabbi letters

6.  Dishonesty

ï           **Problem: **Lying discovered = automatic denial

ï           **Solution: **Full disclosure, explain complications honestly

7.  Unrealistic Timeline

ï           **Problem: **Expecting quick process, getting frustrated

ï           **Solution: **Allow 6-12 months minimum, be patient

8.  Poor Interview Preparation

ï           **Problem: **Unprepared, contradictory answers

ï           **Solution: **Know your documents, practice answers, be honest

9.  Not Saving Copies

ï           **Problem: **Lost documents must be replaced

ï           **Solution: **Copy everything, multiple locations

10.  Giving Up Too Soon

ï           **Problem: **Complex cases take longer

ï           **Solution: **Persist, get help, don't give up

Getting Help

When to Seek Professional Assistance: Aliyah Attorney:

ï           Complex eligibility issues

ï           Prior denial

ï           Serious criminal history

ï           Complicated family situations

ï           Adoption issues

ï           Multiple countries' documentation

ï           **Cost: **$2,000-10,000+ depending on complexity

Genealogist:

ï           Missing family documentation

ï           Holocaust survivor families

ï           Eastern European records

ï           Breaking down brick walls

ï           **Cost: **$500-5,000+

Document Services:

ï           Apostille services

ï           Translation services

ï           Document retrieval

ï           **Cost: **$50-500 per service

Rabbi/Community:

ï           Letters of support

ï           Jewish identity verification

ï           Community connections

ï           Usually free or donation

Free Resources:

ï           Jewish Agency counselors

ï           Nefesh B'Nefesh counselors (if eligible)

ï           Community aliyah committees

ï           Online aliyah groups/forums

ï           Established olim (peer mentors)

PART 5: SPECIAL SITUATIONS

Complex Eligibility Cases

1.  Conversion Recognition

**Issue: **Not all conversions recognized for aliyah

Orthodox Conversion:

ï           Fully recognized

ï           Marriage in Israel no problem

ï           Children recognized as Jewish

Conservative/Masorti Conversion:

ï           Usually recognized for aliyah

ï           May face scrutiny for marriage

ï           Document conversion thoroughly

Reform/Liberal Conversion:

ï           Often accepted for aliyah

ï           NOT recognized for marriage by rabbinate

ï           May need conversion in Israel for marriage

Strategy:

ï           Provide complete conversion documentation

ï           Beit din composition

ï           Rabbi credentials

ï           Conversion process details

ï           Post-conversion Jewish life

ï           Community involvement

ï           Multiple rabbi letters

2.  Intermarriage

Jewish Applicant with Non-Jewish Spouse:

ï           Both fully eligible

ï           Spouse gets citizenship

ï           But spouse not recognized as Jewish

ï           Cannot marry through rabbinate (if remarrying)

ï           Children's status depends on mother

Strategy:

ï           Focus on Jewish partner's eligibility

ï           Spouse applies as "spouse of Jew"

ï           Clear about non-Jewish status

ï           Understand implications

3. Adoption

Non-Jewish Child Adopted by Jewish Parents:

ï           Child eligible for aliyah (if adopted as minor)

ï           But NOT automatically Jewish

ï           Cannot marry through rabbinate

ï           Recommend conversion

Jewish Child Adopted:

ï           Eligible if biological mother Jewish

ï           Need proof of biological mother's identity

ï           Closed adoptions challenging

Strategy:

ï           Document adoption thoroughly

ï           If biological mother Jewish, prove it

ï           Consider child's conversion (Orthodox recommended)

ï           Consult with aliyah attorney

4.  Criminal History Minor Offenses:

ï           Usually not a problem

ï           Disclose fully

ï           Provide context

ï           Show rehabilitation

Serious Offenses:

ï           May prevent aliyah

ï           Depends on severity, timing

ï           Each case evaluated individually

ï           Can appeal

Strategy:

ï           Full disclosure mandatory

ï           Letter of explanation

ï           Rehabilitation evidence

ï           Character references

ï           Court documents showing completion

ï           Consider attorney

5.  Multiple Countries Lived in Several Countries:

ï           Need background checks from each

ï           Different timelines per country

ï           Apostille requirements vary

ï           Complex documentation

Strategy:

ï           Start with slowest country first (South Africa)

ï           Apply to all simultaneously

ï           Track each separately

ï           Organize clearly

6.  No Documents / Holocaust Survivors' Families Lost/Destroyed Records:

ï           Common for Holocaust families

ï           Israeli authorities understanding

ï           Alternative documentation accepted

Options:

ï           Yad Vashem records

ï           Testimony

ï           Community attestations

ï           Any surviving documents

ï           DNA connections to find relatives with documents

Strategy:

ï           Gather any available evidence

ï           Testimony from survivors/family

ï           Jewish community support

ï           Patience - process takes longer

7.  Same-Sex Couples Israel Recognizes:

ï           Foreign same-sex marriages

ï           Both partners eligible

ï           Full citizenship rights

ï           Adoption of children recognized

Cannot:

ï           Marry in Israel (no civil marriage)

ï           Must marry abroad

Process:

ï           Same as heterosexual couples

ï           Marriage certificate required

ï           Both apply together

ï           Children included

PART 6: AFTER APPROVAL - PREPARING FOR ALIYAH

Final Preparations

Housing:

ï           **Absorption Center (Merkaz Klita) **- Temporary housing, support, ulpan

ï           **Direct Absorption (Klita Prati) **- Find own housing, extra funds

ï           **Rental **- Most common long-term

ï           **Purchase **- Usually after settling in

Employment:

ï           Begin job search before arrival

ï           Network through NBN (if applicable)

ï           Prepare Hebrew resume

ï           Connect with professionals in Israel

ï           Realistic expectations

Education:

ï           School enrollment (children)

ï           Ulpan registration (Hebrew language)

ï           University/continuing education

ï           Professional retraining if needed

Financial:

ï           U.S./UK bank accounts (keep open initially)

ï           Israeli bank account (open upon arrival)

ï           Credit cards that work abroad

ï           Budget for first months

ï           Emergency fund

Health Insurance:

ï           Automatic coverage (Bituach Leumi)

ï           Choose Kupat Cholim (health fund)

ï           Bring medical records

ï           Prescriptions transition

Practical:

ï           Shipping belongings

ï           Sell vs. store

ï           What to bring

ï           Pets (if applicable)

ï           Driver's license conversion

ï           Phone service

Emotional Preparation

Reality Check:

ï           Not vacation - it's real life

ï           Challenges normal

ï           Language barrier difficult

ï           Bureaucracy frustrating

ï           Takes time to settle

Support System:

ï           Stay connected to community

ï           Make aliyah friends

ï           Family support crucial

ï           Professional help if needed

ï           Online groups helpful

Expectations:

ï           First year hardest

ï           Gets easier with time

ï           Success takes patience

ï           Everyone struggles

ï           You're not alone

PART 7: COSTS OF ALIYAH

Application Costs

Jewish Agency Application:

ï           **Free **- no application fee

ï           Government of Israel funds process

Document Costs:

Professional Services (Optional):

ï           Aliyah attorney: $2,000-10,000+

ï           Genealogist: $500-5,000+

ï           Document services: $500-2,000

Moving Costs

Shipping:

ï           Lift (container): $3,000-10,000+

ï           Partial lift: $1,500-5,000

ï           Excess baggage: $100-500

ï           **Alternative: **Sell everything, buy in Israel

One-Way Travel:

ï           **Aliyah flight: **Free (Jewish Agency)

ï           Additional family flights: Varies

ï           Pets: $500-2,000

Initial Setup in Israel:

ï           First month expenses: $3,000-5,000

ï           Security deposits: $2,000-4,000

ï           Furniture/appliances: $2,000-10,000

ï           **Total Initial: **$7,000-20,000+

Benefits Received

Sal Klita (Absorption Basket):

ï           Government financial assistance

ï           Distributed over 6-12 months

ï           Amounts vary by age, family size

ï           Singles: ~₪10,000-15,000 total

ï           Families: ~₪25,000-50,000+ total

Additional Benefits:

ï           Tax breaks (first 10 years)

ï           Ulpan (free Hebrew classes)

ï           Health insurance (immediate)

ï           Discounted education

ï           Employment assistance

ï           Housing assistance (some programs)

NBN Grants (if applicable):

ï           Employment grants

ï           Professional assistance

ï           Regional incentives

ï           Can add $5,000-20,000+

**Net Cost: **Benefits often offset initial expenses significantly.

PART 8: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

**Q: How long does the aliyah process take? **A: 4-12 months typically from application to arrival. Complex cases 12-24+ months.

**Q: Can I make aliyah if I have a criminal record? **A: Depends on severity, timing, rehabilitation. Minor offenses usually OK. Serious/recent crimes may prevent aliyah. Full disclosure essential.

**Q: Do I have to live in Israel permanently? **A: No residency requirement after obtaining citizenship. But benefits require living in Israel.

**Q: Can I keep my U.S./UK/Canadian citizenship? **A: Yes. Israel allows dual citizenship. Check your home country's rules.

**Q: What if I'm not Jewish but my spouse is? **A: You're eligible as spouse of Jew. Full citizenship, but not recognized as Jewish for marriage purposes.

**Q: Is conversion required for non-Jewish spouse? **A: No. But without conversion, cannot marry through Israeli rabbinate if remarrying.

**Q: Can I make aliyah if my father is Jewish but mother isn't? **A: Yes, eligible for citizenship (Law of Return). But not Halachically Jewish - affects marriage in Israel.

**Q: What if I converted Reform? **A: Usually accepted for aliyah. NOT recognized for marriage by Chief Rabbinate. May need Orthodox conversion in Israel.

**Q: Do I need to speak Hebrew? **A: No. Free ulpan provided after aliyah. English widely spoken. But Hebrew helpful for integration.

**Q: Can I work immediately? **A: Yes, but realistic about language barrier. Some professions need licensing. NBN helps with job search.

**Q: What about military service? **A: Men under 24, women under 21 usually drafted. Older olim exempt. Volunteering possible. Varies by situation.

**Q: Can I bring my elderly parents? **A: If they're eligible (Jewish or parents of oleh). Special considerations for seniors. Health care important.

**Q: What if my documents are in another language? **A: Need certified translation to Hebrew or English. Professional translator recommended.

**Q: How much money should I have saved? **A: Recommended: $10,000-20,000 minimum. More if family. Sal klita helps but not immediate.

**Q: Can I change my mind after making aliyah? **A: Yes, but sal klita benefits may need to be returned if leave within first year.

SUMMARY CHECKLIST

Before Starting Application:

ï           [ ] Confirm eligibility

ï           [ ] Attend information session

ï           [ ] Contact Jewish Agency/NBN

ï           [ ] Assess timeline

ï           [ ] Budget for costs

Document Collection:

ï           [ ] Personal identification (passport, birth cert, etc.)

ï           [ ] Jewish identity proof (family documents)

ï           [ ] Background checks (all countries)

ï           [ ] Professional documents

ï           [ ] Medical records

ï           [ ] Financial documents

ï           [ ] All translations done

ï           [ ] All apostilles obtained

Application Process:

ï           [ ] Complete application forms

ï           [ ] Submit to Jewish Agency

ï           [ ] Apply to NBN (if USA/Canada/UK)

ï           [ ] Attend interview

ï           [ ] Pass security clearance

ï           [ ] Receive approval

ï           [ ] Arrange flight

Pre-Departure:

ï           [ ] Housing arranged

ï           [ ] Job search started (if applicable)

ï           [ ] School enrollment (if children)

ï           [ ] Shipping arranged

ï           [ ] Finances organized

ï           [ ] Health insurance understood

ï           [ ] Support network established

ï           [ ] Emotional preparation

Upon Arrival:

ï           [ ] Ministry of Interior processing

ï           [ ] ID card (Teudat Zehut)

ï           [ ] Bank account

ï           [ ] Phone service

ï           [ ] Health fund registration

ï           [ ] Ulpan enrollment

ï           [ ] Community integration begins

**Remember: **Thousands make aliyah successfully every year. With proper preparation and the right guidance, you can too. The Jewish Agency and Nefesh B'Nefesh are there to help every step of the way.

Would you like me to create a visual application flowchart or timeline document in SVG format showing the step-by-step process?

Updated on: 01/02/2026