Health Declaration Form for Aliyah -

Complete Guide

Overview

The **Health Declaration Form **(Tofes Briut / בריאות טופס) is a mandatory document required by the Israeli Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Health as part of the aliyah application process. It collects comprehensive information about your medical history, current health conditions, medications, and disabilities.

PART 1: UNDERSTANDING THE HEALTH DECLARATION

What is the Health Declaration Form?

Official Name:

ï           Health Declaration Form / Medical Questionnaire

ï           Tofes Briut (Hebrew: בריאות טופס)

ï           Form number varies by issuing organization

Purpose:

ï           Assess healthcare needs of new immigrants

ï           Plan absorption services and support

ï           Allocate resources for special needs

ï           Screen for public health concerns

ï           Assign to appropriate health fund (Kupat Holim)

ï           Determine eligibility for disability benefits

Who Must Complete:

ï           Every aliyah applicant (all ages)

ï           Parents complete for minor children

ï           Each family member needs separate form

ï           Required regardless of health status

When Required:

ï           During aliyah application process

ï           Usually submitted with other documents

ï           Before final approval

ï           Sometimes updated before flight

Why Israel Requires Health Information

Legitimate Reasons:

1.              Healthcare Planning

◦                    Israel has universal healthcare

◦                    Need to plan for immigrant healthcare needs

◦                    Allocate resources appropriately

◦                    Ensure proper medical care upon arrival

2.              Special Needs Support

◦                    Disabilities require accommodation

◦                    Special education planning (children)

◦                    Housing accessibility needs

◦                    Employment assistance

3.              Public Health

◦                    Infectious disease screening

◦                    Vaccination status

◦                    Epidemic prevention

◦                    Community health protection

4.              Absorption Benefits

◦                    Disability grants

◦                    Special assistance programs

◦                    Modified military service

◦                    Employment accommodations

5.              Realistic Expectations

◦                    Ensure Israel can provide needed care

◦                    Some treatments unavailable/expensive in Israel

◦                    Medications may differ

◦                    Healthcare system differences

NOT Used For:

ï           Denying aliyah (in most cases)

ï           Discrimination

ï           Publicizing your information

ï           Employment decisions (illegally)

Common Misconceptions

Myth 1: "If I have a health condition, I'll be denied aliyah"

ï           **Reality: **Very few conditions prevent aliyah

ï           Most medical conditions are manageable

ï           Israel has excellent healthcare

ï           Denial extremely rare

Myth 2: "I should hide my health problems"

ï           **Reality: **NEVER hide health information

ï           Discovered lies = denial or citizenship revocation

ï           Need accurate info for proper care

ï           Benefits require disclosure

Myth 3: "Mental health issues will disqualify me"

ï           **Reality: **Mental health conditions rarely prevent aliyah

ï           Depression, anxiety usually fine

ï           Even serious conditions manageable

ï           Treatment available in Israel

Myth 4: "This information will be shared with employers"

ï           **Reality: **Medical privacy protected by law

ï           Employers cannot access

ï           Used only for healthcare/benefits

ï           Confidential

Myth 5: "If I'm healthy, I can skip this form"

ï           **Reality: **Everyone must complete it

ï           "No medical conditions" is valid answer

ï           Still need to submit form

ï           Required documentation

PART 2: WHAT THE FORM ASKS

Personal Information Section

Basic Details:

ï           Full legal name

ï           Date of birth

ï           Gender

ï           ID/Passport number

ï           Address

ï           Contact information

ï           Marital status

ï           Number of children

Family Medical History:

ï           Parents' major health conditions

ï           Genetic conditions in family

ï           Hereditary diseases

ï           Siblings' health issues (sometimes)

Current Health Status

General Health Questions:

ï           Overall health rating (excellent/good/fair/poor)

ï           Recent hospitalizations (past 5 years)

ï           Current symptoms/complaints

ï           Recent illnesses

ï           Energy level

ï           Weight changes (significant)

ï           Sleep patterns

ï           Exercise ability

Physical Examination:

ï           Height and weight (BMI calculated)

ï           Blood pressure (if known)

ï           Vision status (glasses/contacts)

ï           Hearing status

ï           Mobility limitations

ï           Physical disabilities

Medical Conditions

You Must Disclose:

Chronic Conditions:

ï           Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2)

ï           Heart disease

ï           Hypertension (high blood pressure)

ï           Asthma

ï           COPD or other lung diseases

ï           Kidney disease

ï           Liver disease

ï           Thyroid disorders

ï           Autoimmune diseases

ï           Cancer (current or history)

Neurological Conditions:

ï           Epilepsy/seizures

ï           Multiple sclerosis

ï           Parkinson's disease

ï           Stroke history

ï           Migraines (severe/chronic)

ï           Neuropathy

Mental Health Conditions:

ï           Depression

ï           Anxiety disorders

ï           Bipolar disorder

ï           Schizophrenia

ï           PTSD

ï           Eating disorders

ï           OCD

ï           ADD/ADHD

ï           Autism spectrum

ï           Other psychiatric conditions

Infectious Diseases:

ï           HIV/AIDS

ï           Hepatitis B or C

ï           Tuberculosis (active or latent)

ï           Other chronic infections

Musculoskeletal:

ï           Arthritis

ï           Back problems (chronic)

ï           Joint issues

ï           Osteoporosis

ï           Mobility limitations

Other Conditions:

ï           Allergies (severe)

ï           Anemia

ï           Blood disorders

ï           Skin conditions (severe)

ï           Gastrointestinal diseases

ï           Reproductive health issues

ï           Any chronic condition

Medications

Current Medications:

ï           Name of medication

ï           Dosage

ï           Frequency

ï           What it treats

ï           How long you've been taking it

ï           Prescribing doctor

Include:

ï           Prescription medications

ï           Regular over-the-counter meds

ï           Vitamins (if for medical condition)

ï           Insulin/injections

ï           Inhalers

ï           Topical treatments (if prescription)

Important Notes:

ï           Generic names preferred

ï           Brand names may differ in Israel

ï           Some medications unavailable in Israel

ï           May need Israeli equivalent

Surgeries and Hospitalizations

Past Surgeries:

ï           Type of surgery

ï           Date performed

ï           Reason/diagnosis

ï           Hospital/doctor

ï           Complications (if any)

ï           Current status

Hospitalizations (Past 5-10 Years):

ï           Reason for admission

ï           Length of stay

ï           Treatment received

ï           Outcome

ï           Ongoing effects

Mental Health History

Questions Include:

ï           Ever diagnosed with mental health condition?

ï           Current treatment (therapy/medication)?

ï           Past psychiatric hospitalizations?

ï           Suicide attempts or ideation?

ï           Self-harm history?

ï           Current mental health status

ï           Therapy/psychiatrist details

Why This Matters:

ï           Plan mental health support

ï           Continue treatment in Israel

ï           Military service considerations

ï           Disability benefits (if severe)

ï           Not to deny aliyah

Disabilities

Physical Disabilities:

ï           Mobility limitations

ï           Wheelchair use

ï           Prosthetics

ï           Visual impairment/blindness

ï           Hearing impairment/deafness

ï           Speech difficulties

ï           Chronic pain

ï           Other physical limitations

Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities:

ï           Intellectual disability

ï           Learning disabilities

ï           Autism spectrum disorder

ï           Down syndrome

ï           Other developmental conditions

Level of Independence:

ï           Can you live independently?

ï           Need daily assistance?

ï           Special equipment required?

ï           Caregiver needs?

Why Disclosed:

ï           Accessibility planning

ï           Housing accommodations

ï           Educational needs (children)

ï           Employment support

ï           Benefits eligibility

ï           NOT to prevent aliyah

Substance Use

Current/Past Use:

ï           Smoking (cigarettes, amount)

ï           Alcohol consumption (frequency/amount)

ï           Recreational drug use (current/past)

ï           Prescription drug misuse

ï           Recovery/treatment programs

Why Asked:

ï           Health risk assessment

ï           Treatment planning

ï           Support services

ï           Honest - not judgmental

Pregnancy

For Women of Childbearing Age:

ï           Currently pregnant?

ï           Due date?

ï           High-risk pregnancy?

ï           Complications?

ï           Prenatal care status

Why Important:

ï           Healthcare planning

ï           Birthing facilities

ï           Prenatal services

ï           Newborn documentation

Children's Specific Questions

For Minor Children:

ï           Developmental milestones

ï           Vaccinations (up to date?)

ï           School performance

ï           Behavioral issues

ï           Special education needs

ï           Allergies (especially severe)

ï           Any chronic conditions

ï           Medications

Vaccinations

Immunization History:

ï           Childhood vaccines

ï           Recent vaccines

ï           Boosters

ï           Travel vaccines

ï           COVID-19 vaccination status

ï           Vaccination records attached

Why Important:

ï           Israeli requirements

ï           School enrollment (children)

ï           Public health

ï           May need catch-up vaccines

Physician Information

Current Doctors:

ï           Primary care physician

ï           Specialists (if any)

ï           Contact information

ï           Permission to contact (sometimes)

Medical Records:

ï           Can you provide medical records?

ï           Where are records located?

ï           Release authorization

PART 3: HOW TO COMPLETE THE FORM

Before You Start

Gather Information:

ï           Medical records

ï           Medication list (current)

ï           Vaccination records

ï           Hospital discharge summaries

ï           Doctor contact information

ï           List of all conditions

ï           Surgery dates and details

ï           Mental health history

Consult Your Doctor:

ï           Review your medical history

ï           Get current medication list

ï           Confirm diagnoses

ï           Get copies of key records

ï           Ask for summary letter

Prepare Supporting Documents:

ï           Doctor's letters

ï           Medical reports

ï           Test results

ï           Disability documentation

ï           Prescription lists

ï           Hospital records

Filling Out the Form

Step-by-Step:

1.              Read Carefully

◦                    Read all questions fully

◦                    Understand what's being asked

◦                    Note required vs. optional

2.              Be Honest

◦                    Complete honesty essential

◦                    Don't minimize or exaggerate

◦                    Include everything relevant

◦                    "None" is a valid answer

3.              Be Thorough

◦                    Don't leave blanks

◦                    Write "N/A" if not applicable

◦                    Explain when needed

◦                    Attach additional sheets if necessary

4.              Use Clear Language

◦                    Write legibly

◦                    Type if possible

◦                    English or Hebrew acceptable

◦                    Medical terminology okay

5.              Include Dates

◦                    When diagnosed

◦                    When surgery performed

◦                    When treatment started

◦                    Be as specific as possible

6.              Provide Context

◦                    Current status of condition

◦                    How well controlled

◦                    Impact on daily life

◦                    Treatment effectiveness

7.              List Everything

◦                    All medications (current)

◦                    All conditions (even managed)

◦                    All surgeries (even minor)

◦                    All mental health history

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't:

ï           Leave sections blank

ï           Minimize serious conditions

ï           Forget to sign/date

ï           Omit embarrassing conditions

ï           Hide mental health history

ï           Skip medication details

ï           Forget children's information

ï           Submit without review

Do:

ï           Complete every section

ï           Disclose all conditions

ï           Sign and date

ï           Be honest about everything

ï           Include mental health

ï           List all medications

ï           Complete for each child

ï           Review before submitting

Special Considerations

If You Have Many Conditions:

ï           Use additional pages

ï           Attach detailed medical summary

ï           Number conditions for clarity

ï           Prioritize most significant

ï           Include supporting documents

If Condition is Controlled:

ï           State it's controlled/stable

ï           Note treatment working well

ï           Emphasize manageable

ï           Doctor's letter helpful

If Recently Diagnosed:

ï           Disclose it

ï           Explain newness

ï           Current treatment plan

ï           Expected prognosis

If Condition is Improving:

ï           Note improvement

ï           Timeline of recovery

ï           Current status

ï           Expected outcome

If Unsure About Diagnosis:

ï           Disclose symptoms

ï           Tests being done

ï           Pending diagnosis

ï           Update when confirmed

PART 4: SPECIFIC CONDITIONS & HOW TO DISCLOSE

Mental Health Conditions

How to Disclose Properly:

Depression:

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Diagnosed: 2019

Current Status: Stable, well-controlled on medication Treatment: Sertraline 100mg daily, monthly therapy Functioning: Able to work full-time, normal daily activities Hospitalizations: None

Current Psychiatrist: Dr. Sarah Klein, [contact]

Why Honest Disclosure Helps:

ï           Ensures medication continuity

ï           Connects you to mental health services

ï           Military service accommodation

ï           No stigma in Israeli healthcare

ï           Better support system

Chronic Diseases

Diabetes:

Condition: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Diagnosed: Age 12 (2003)

Current Management: Insulin pump, CGM (continuous glucose monitor)

Control: HbA1c 6.8% (good control) Complications: None to date Medications: NovoLog insulin via pump

Monitoring: Endocrinologist every 3 months

Why Disclosure Critical:

ï           Medication availability check

ï           Device supplies (insulin pump)

ï           Specialist referral

ï           Disability benefits possible

ï           Emergency care planning

Disabilities

Physical Disability:

Condition: Paraplegia (T6 level) Cause: Motor vehicle accident, 2015

Mobility: Wheelchair user (manual wheelchair) Independence: Fully independent in ADLs with adaptations Employment: Software engineer, no accommodations needed

Housing Needs: Wheelchair accessible (ground floor/elevator, adapted bathroom)

Equipment: Manual wheelchair, shower chair, grab bars

Why Full Disclosure Essential:

ï           Accessibility planning

ï           Housing assignment

ï           Benefits eligibility

ï           Equipment import/purchase

ï           Support services

Serious Illnesses

Cancer History:

Condition: Breast Cancer Diagnosed: 2018

Treatment: Lumpectomy, chemotherapy, radiation (completed 2019)

Current Status: In remission, 5 years cancer-free Monitoring: Oncologist every 6 months, annual mammogram Medications: Tamoxifen 20mg daily (preventive) Prognosis: Excellent, no evidence of recurrence

Why Disclose:

ï           Ongoing monitoring needs

ï           Medication continuity

ï           Specialist care

ï           NOT a barrier to aliyah

ï           Healthcare planning

Medications That Need Explanation

Controlled Substances:

Medication: Adderall (amphetamine salts) 20mg twice daily Condition: ADHD, diagnosed 2010

Prescriber: Dr. Michael Brown, Psychiatrist Status: Stable dose for 5 years Functioning: Essential for work performance

Note: Understand this is controlled substance in Israel, willing to work with Israeli psychiatrist for equivalent Why Important:

ï           Controlled substances regulated

ï           May need Israeli equivalent

ï           Specialist referral needed

ï           Import restrictions

ï           Documentation required

PART 5: HEALTH CONDITIONS & ALIYAH ELIGIBILITY

Conditions That Usually DON'T Prevent Aliyah

Almost Never Disqualify:

ï           Depression (controlled)

ï           Anxiety disorders

ï           Diabetes (managed)

ï           Asthma

ï           Hypertension

ï           High cholesterol

ï           Thyroid disorders

ï           Most autoimmune diseases

ï           Cancer (in remission)

ï           Past surgeries (recovered)

ï           Learning disabilities

ï           ADHD

ï           Mild to moderate disabilities

ï           Chronic pain (managed)

ï           Epilepsy (controlled)

Conditions That May Require Additional Review

Possible Complications:

ï           Severe, uncontrolled mental illness

ï           Active, aggressive cancer

ï           Severe intellectual disability (without family support)

ï           Conditions requiring very rare/expensive treatment

ï           Active drug/alcohol addiction (untreated)

ï           Severe disabilities requiring 24/7 care (without support system)

**Important: **Even these rarely result in denial. Each case evaluated individually.

What ACTUALLY Prevents Aliyah

Very Rare Disqualifications:

ï           Infectious diseases posing immediate public health threat (active TB, untreated)

ï           Conditions requiring treatment unavailable in Israel AND no alternative

ï           Severe disability with NO family support AND requiring 24/7 institutional care

Reality Check:

ï           99%+ of applicants with health conditions approved

ï           Israel has universal healthcare

ï           Excellent medical system

ï           Want to accommodate immigrants

ï           Denial extremely rare

PART 6: PRIVACY & USE OF INFORMATION

How Information is Used

Legitimate Uses:

ï           Assign to health fund (Kupat Holim)

ï           Plan healthcare needs

ï           Arrange specialist care

ï           Determine benefits eligibility

ï           Military service determination

ï           Absorption center placement

ï           Special education (children)

NOT Used For:

ï           Public disclosure

ï           Employment decisions (illegal)

ï           Housing discrimination (illegal)

ï           Social judgment

ï           Gossiping

ï           Anything unethical

Who Sees Your Information

Access Limited To:

ï           Ministry of Interior officials (processing)

ï           Ministry of Health officials

ï           Jewish Agency medical staff

ï           Your assigned health fund

ï           Relevant support services

Does NOT Go To:

ï           Employers

ï           Landlords

ï           General public

ï           Other immigrants

ï           Community members

Medical Privacy Laws in Israel

Protected by Law:

ï           Patient Rights Act

ï           Privacy Protection Law

ï           Health information confidential

ï           Unauthorized disclosure illegal

ï           Strong privacy protections

Your Rights

You Can:

ï           Request your medical file

ï           Correct errors

ï           Understand how info is used

ï           Limit disclosure (some cases)

ï           File complaint if misused

PART 7: CONSEQUENCES OF NON-DISCLOSURE

Why Honesty is Critical

If You Lie or Omit:

1.              Denial of Aliyah

◦                    If discovered during process

◦                    Application rejected

◦                    Difficult to reapply

2.              Revocation of Citizenship

◦                    Even after arriving

◦                    Fraud in application

◦                    Serious consequences

◦                    Deportation possible

3.              Benefits Denied

◦                    Can't claim disability benefits

◦                    No special accommodations

◦                    Healthcare complications

4.              Medical Emergencies

◦                    Doctors don't know your history

◦                    Dangerous drug interactions

◦                    Improper treatment

◦                    Life-threatening

5.              Insurance Issues

◦                    Pre-existing condition claims denied

◦                    "Didn't disclose" = no coverage

◦                    Financial disaster

6.              Legal Consequences

◦                    Fraud charges possible

◦                    Fines

◦                    Legal fees

◦                    Criminal record

How Non-Disclosure is Discovered

They Find Out Through:

ï           Medical records (they request)

ï           Doctor contacts

ï           Pharmacy records

ï           Insurance claims

ï           Hospital visits in Israel

ï           Medication prescriptions

ï           Disability claims

ï           Military medical exam

ï           Background checks

ï           Family member disclosures

**Bottom Line: **They WILL find out. Not worth the risk.

PART 8: SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

What to Attach

Helpful Documents:

Doctor's Summary Letter:

ï           Overview of health status

ï           List of conditions

ï           Current medications

ï           Prognosis

ï           Functionality assessment

ï           Doctor's letterhead

ï           Signed and dated

Medical Records:

ï           Recent test results

ï           Hospital discharge summaries

ï           Surgical reports

ï           Psychiatric evaluations

ï           Specialist reports

Medication List:

ï           Current prescriptions

ï           Dosages

ï           Prescribing doctors

ï           Pharmacy printout helpful

Vaccination Records:

ï           Childhood vaccines

ï           Recent immunizations

ï           COVID-19 vaccines

ï           Official form/card

Disability Documentation:

ï           Official disability determination

ï           Functionality assessments

ï           Equipment lists

ï           Support needs

Translations

If Documents Not in English/Hebrew:

ï           Certified translation required

ï           Medical translator preferred

ï           Include original + translation

ï           Translator credentials

PART 9: TIPS FOR A SMOOTH PROCESS

Before Submission

Checklist:

ï           [ ] Form completely filled out

ï           [ ] All questions answered (N/A if not applicable)

ï           [ ] Medications list attached

ï           [ ] Doctor's letter included

ï           [ ] Vaccination records attached

ï           [ ] Signed and dated

ï           [ ] Copy made for your records

ï           [ ] Supporting documents organized

ï           [ ] Translations done (if needed)

ï           [ ] Reviewed for accuracy

During Processing

If Contacted for More Information:

ï           Respond quickly

ï           Provide what's requested

ï           Be cooperative

ï           Ask questions if unclear

ï           Keep communication records

If Concerns Raised:

ï           Don't panic

ï           Provide additional documentation

ï           Doctor's letter clarifying

ï           Emphasize control/management

ï           Explain functionality

ï           Positive prognosis

After Approval

Upon Arrival in Israel:

ï           Register with Kupat Holim immediately

ï           Bring medical records

ï           List of medications

ï           Doctor referrals

ï           Continue treatment

ï           Build Israeli medical team

PART 10: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

**Q: Will my depression prevent my aliyah? **A: Almost certainly not. Depression is very common and manageable. Disclose it honestly, note it's controlled, and you'll be fine.

**Q: I take antidepressants. Is that a problem? **A: No. Many people take antidepressants. List the medication, dosage, and how long you've been stable.

**Q: I have diabetes. Can I still make aliyah? **A: Yes. Israel has excellent diabetes care. Many diabetic olim thrive in Israel. Full disclosure helps ensure continuity of care.

**Q: My child has autism. Will that prevent us? **A: No. Israel has services for children with autism. Disclosure helps arrange appropriate education and support.

**Q: I had cancer 10 years ago. Do I need to mention it? **A: Yes. Even if in remission, disclose it. Shows excellent prognosis but ensures proper monitoring.

**Q: What if I'm embarrassed about my condition? **A: Medical professionals are not judgmental. They've seen everything. Your health matters more than embarrassment.

**Q: Can I update the form if my health changes? **A: Yes. If diagnosed with something new before arrival, notify Jewish Agency and update form.

**Q: What if I don't know my family medical history? **A: Write "unknown" or "adopted - no access to biological family history." That's acceptable.

**Q: Do I need to list every cold I've ever had? **A: No. Chronic conditions, surgeries, ongoing treatments, and significant illnesses only.

**Q: What if my medication isn't available in Israel? **A: Disclose it anyway. Israeli doctors can prescribe equivalent. Hiding it means no medication at all.

**Q: Will this affect my military service? **A: Possibly, but that's okay. Medical conditions may modify service or grant exemption. That's normal and accepted.

**Q: Can I get disability benefits if I don't disclose my disability? **A: No. Must disclose to receive benefits. Benefits require documentation.

SUMMARY

The Golden Rules

**1.        Be Honest **- Complete honesty is essential

**2.        Be Thorough **- Don't leave anything out

**3.        Be Clear **- Explain conditions well

**4.        Be Current **- Use recent information

**5.        Be Organized **- Attach supporting documents

**6.        Be Proactive **- Get doctor's letters

**7.        Be Realistic **- Most conditions fine

**8.        Be Confident **- You'll probably be approved

Remember

ï           Health conditions rarely prevent aliyah

ï           Disclosure helps ensure proper care

ï           Privacy is protected by law

ï           Honesty prevents serious consequences

ï           Israel wants to help immigrants succeed

ï           Better healthcare with full disclosure

ï           Don't let health concerns stop your dream

Updated on: 01/02/2026