REGISTERING FOR HEALTH INSURANCE IN ISRAEL
REGISTERING FOR HEALTH INSURANCE
IN ISRAEL
Complete Guide to Kupat Cholim for New Olim
ISRAEL'S UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
What You Need to Know:
Under the National Health Insurance Law, every Israeli resident is entitled to free basic medical services, and this also applies to those who have just received citizenship. Healthcare in Israel works on a universal model, which means every resident has access to medical care.
Key Facts:
ï ✓ Healthcare is universal and mandatory
ï ✓ Coverage starts immediately upon registration
ï ✓ Cannot be denied for pre-existing conditions
ï ✓ Same coverage regardless of age or health status
ï ✓ World-class medical system (ranked 5th globally by WHO)
ï ✓ New Olim get FREE coverage for first 6-12 months
How It Works:
- Choose one of four health funds (Kupot Cholim)
- Register with your chosen fund
- Receive health insurance card
- Access all medical services through your Kupah
- Government covers your premiums initially
- After free period: Contributions deducted from salary or paid to Bituach Leumi
FREE COVERAGE FOR NEW OLIM - CRITICAL INFORMATION
How Long is Coverage Free?
New immigrants who don't have income (or whose income is no more than 5% of the average Israeli wage) are eligible for an exemption from paying health-insurance contributions for the first six months after receiving Israeli residency under the Law of Return.
First 6 Months:
ï Completely FREE if unemployed or low income
ï No premiums, no contributions, no payments
ï Full coverage of basic health basket
ï Starts immediately upon registration
**Months 7-12: **If you also receive the Ministry of Aliyah & Integration's Dmei Kiyum (living allowance), that exemption continues during this period too, and can extend month-by-month up to a maximum of 12 months in total, for as long as the allowance is paid.
Requirements for Free Coverage:
ï Must be unemployed OR earning less than 5% of average wage
ï Must be registered with Kupat Cholim
ï If receiving Dmei Kiyum allowance from Misrad Haklita: Free coverage continues
CRITICAL:
Free coverage doesn't kick in just because you've got your papers. It only starts once you sign up with a Kupat Holim (health fund).
What This Means:
ï Registration is NOT automatic
ï You must actively register
ï Coverage begins only after you register
ï Every day without registration = no coverage
ï Register within first few days of arrival
THE FOUR KUPOT CHOLIM (HEALTH FUNDS)
All four are non-profit and required by law to give the same free core package. The differences come down to size, atmosphere, and where their clinics are located.
1. CLALIT (כללית)
**Size: **Israel's largest health fund
**Best For: **Wide coverage, rural areas, comprehensive network
Key Features:
ï Most clinics nationwide
ï Largest network in periphery and rural areas
ï Most comprehensive geographic coverage
ï Strong in smaller towns and border areas
ï Extensive pharmacy network
ï Good for those living outside major cities
Services:
ï Over 1,400 clinics
ï Largest medical network
ï Multiple hospitals operated by Clalit
ï Strong in North and South
ï Available in Hebrew, English, Arabic, Russian
Contact:
ï Phone: *2700 or 1-222-2700
ï Website: Available in English
Best Choice For:
ï Living in smaller cities/towns
ï Need clinic close to home in periphery
ï Want largest network
ï Moving frequently within Israel
2. MACCABI (מכבי)
**Size: **Second-largest health fund
**Best For: **Modern facilities, English speakers, Olim-friendly
Key Features:
ï Operates Assuta Medical Centers (4 hospitals)
ï Modern, well-equipped clinics
ï Very popular with English-speaking Olim
ï Strong in major cities
ï 90 Maccabi Pharm pharmacy branches
ï MaccabiDent dental clinics
ï Good digital platform
Services:
ï Thousands of doctors and nurses
ï Hundreds of neighborhood clinics
ï Aesthetic treatments
ï Child health centers
ï Physiotherapy centers
ï Women's health centers
ï Excellent online services
Special for Olim:
ï Maccabi recently began waiving wait periods for Olim who join supplemental insurance within one year of Aliyah
ï Very Olim-friendly
ï English-speaking staff common
Contact:
ï Phone: *3555 or 1-700-505-353
ï Website: Available in English
ï Registration help: Shimon Klein 052-761-1203
Best Choice For:
ï Living in major cities
ï English speakers
ï Want modern facilities
ï Planning to get supplemental insurance
ï Preference for private hospital option (Assuta)
3. MEUHEDET (מאוחדת)
**Size: **Third-largest
**Best For: **Good service, popular with religious community
Key Features:
ï 4,000 doctors in over 300 clinics
ï Most clinics have own laboratories (convenient!)
ï Dozens of pharmacies
ï Child development centers
ï Physiotherapy institutes
ï Women's health services
ï Diabetes care programs
ï Popular with English-speaking Olim
Services:
ï Good balance of size and personal service
ï Strong in religious neighborhoods
ï Good pediatric services
ï Comprehensive women's health
ï Chronic disease management
Contact:
ï Phone: *3833
ï Jerusalem foreigners: 02-6503392 or 02-6503219
ï Email: TouristJer@meuhedet.co.il
ï Website: Available in English
Best Choice For:
ï Religious communities
ï Want on-site lab testing
ï Good middle-ground option
ï Strong pediatric services
4. LEUMIT (לאומית)
**Size: **Smallest of the four
**Best For: **Personal service, smaller and more intimate
Key Features:
ï 320 medical centers
ï 150 dedicated Leumit pharmacies
ï Agreements with all government hospitals
ï Many private hospitals too
ï Extensive specialist network
ï More personal, less crowded
Services:
ï Primary care physicians
ï Pediatricians
ï Nurses and specialists
ï Less bureaucratic feel
ï Faster appointments sometimes
Contact:
ï Phone: *507 or 1-700-507-507
ï Website: Available in English
Best Choice For:
ï Want more personal service
ï Don't like crowds
ï Prefer smaller organization
ï Live near Leumit clinic
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR KUPAT CHOLIM
Factors to Consider:
1. Location:
ï Where are clinics near your home?
ï Where are clinics near your work?
ï Will you travel within Israel often?
ï Rural or urban area?
2. Language:
ï Need English-speaking doctors?
ï Need Russian/French/Amharic?
ï Most clinics run in Hebrew, but in bigger cities you'll find doctors who speak English, Russian, French, or Amharic. Even in smaller towns, there's often at least one doctor or nurse who can switch to another language
3. Services:
ï Need specific specialists?
ï Want on-site labs?
ï Prefer modern vs. traditional facilities?
ï Important: All provide same basic basket
4. Recommendations:
ï Ask other Olim in your area
ï Check local Facebook groups
ï Most popular in your community?
5. Supplemental Insurance Plans:
ï Compare offerings
ï Check waiting periods
ï Review costs
ï Different benefits at each Kupah
6. Hospital Preferences:
ï Which hospitals does Kupah work with?
ï Maccabi has Assuta (private hospitals)
ï Others use government hospitals primarily
Can't Decide? Popular Choices:
For Most Olim:
ï **Maccabi **- Very Olim-friendly, English support, modern
ï **Clalit **- Largest network, best if outside major cities
For Religious Olim:
ï **Meuhedet **- Popular in religious communities
For Personal Service:
ï **Leumit **- Smaller, more intimate
**IMPORTANT: **You can switch later! Not a permanent decision.
HOW TO REGISTER - THREE OPTIONS
OPTION 1: AT BEN GURION AIRPORT (RECOMMENDED)
**When: **Immediately upon arrival in Israel
New Olim will have the opportunity to register for health care upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport.
Process:
- After passport control, before collecting luggage
- Look for Kupat Cholim registration desk
- Staff will ask which Kupah you've chosen
- Complete registration forms
- Receive temporary membership card immediately
- Permanent card mailed to your address
Advantages:
ï ✓ Immediate coverage
ï ✓ Done before leaving airport
ï ✓ Convenient and easy
ï ✓ English-speaking staff available
ï ✓ Can use services same day
What to Bring:
ï Passport
ï Teudat Oleh (given at airport)
ï Know which Kupah you want
**Tip: **Research and choose your Kupah BEFORE landing in Israel.
OPTION 2: AT KUPAT CHOLIM OFFICE (IF NOT DONE AT AIRPORT)
**When: **Within first few days of arrival
If you are making Aliyah within Israel, you need to go to the branch of the Kupat Cholim you chose with your Teudat Zehut, Teudat Oleh and proof of a Bank Account.
Required Documents:
ï ☐ Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID - temporary from airport is fine)
ï ☐ Teudat Oleh (immigrant certificate)
ï ☐ Registration form (if received at airport)
ï ☐ Proof of address (if available)
ï ☐ Passport
Process:
- Find nearest branch of your chosen Kupah
- Visit during business hours
- Tell staff: "Ani oleh chadash, rotzeh lehitrashum" (I'm new immigrant, want to register)
- Complete registration forms
- Present your Teudat Zehut and copy of registration form
- Receive personal magnetic card for each household member, which you'll need for every doctor visit
Timeline:
ï Registration: 30-60 minutes
ï Temporary card: Immediate
ï Permanent card: Arrives by mail in 2-3 weeks
ï Can use services immediately with temporary card
OPTION 3: THROUGH ISRAEL POST (DOA'AR)
**When: **Alternative if Kupah office not convenient
Process:
- Visit any Israel Post (Doa'ar) branch
- Bring Teudat Zehut
- Complete Kupat Cholim registration
- Receive temporary confirmation
- Card mailed to address
**Note: **Less common method, but works.
SPECIAL REGISTRATION INSTRUCTIONS:
**For Ezrachim Olim (Israeli Citizens Born Abroad) and Ktinim Chozrim (Returning Minors): **Israeli citizens born abroad (Ezrachim Olim) and returning minors (Ktinim Chozrim) should complete their medical insurance registration process at their local branch of the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration (Misrad Ha'Aliyah VeHaklita).
**For Returning Residents (Toshavim Chozrim): **Olim who were previously temporary residents (A1 visa holders) and returning residents should visit their local branch of Bituach Leumi in order to register for medical insurance.
**For Students/Foreign Residents: **If you are a student, sign up for kupat cholim as soon as you arrive in Israel. You will be registered as a tourist on a "tourist plan" and will be charged accordingly. Your registration status will be reflected in your ID number, which will begin with the number 9.
Note: Tourist plans have limited coverage compared to full Bituach Leumi membership.
AFTER REGISTRATION - NEXT STEPS
Within 24-48 Hours:
1. Choose Your Family Doctor (Rofeh Mishpacha)
When registering with your Kupat Cholim, you'll select a Rofeh Mishpacha from their list in your area. You can change your doctor quarterly if needed.
How to Choose:
ï Ask for doctors who speak your language
ï Check online reviews (Olim Facebook groups)
ï Consider location near home/work
ï Ask other Olim for recommendations
ï Can switch every 3 months if not satisfied
**Why Family Doctor Matters: **Your Rofeh Mishpacha (for adults, or Rofeh Yeladim – Pediatrician for children) is your primary point of contact and acts as a gatekeeper to specialists and many services.
2. Download Kupah's Mobile App
It is highly recommended to download the app of your Kupat Cholim to your phone. The app enables you to search for medical information, prescriptions, test results etc.
App Features:
ï Make/cancel appointments
ï View test results
ï Renew prescriptions
ï Find nearest clinic
ï See medical history
ï Contact doctors
ï Get referrals
ï Check vaccine records
3. Register Online Account
ï Create account on Kupah's website
ï Link to your membership number
ï Access all services online
ï Saves time and hassle
4. Locate Your Clinic
ï Find nearest clinic to your home
ï Check operating hours
ï Save address and phone number
ï Know urgent care options
ï Identify after-hours services
WHAT'S COVERED - THE SAL HABRIUT (HEALTH BASKET)
Basic Coverage Included for Everyone:
The state's basic package covers the essentials: visits to family doctors, hospital care and surgery, pregnancy and children's health, treatment for chronic illness.
Comprehensive List:
Primary Care:
ï Family doctor visits (unlimited)
ï Pediatrician visits
ï Nurse consultations
ï Home visits (when medically necessary)
ï Preventive care
Specialist Care:
ï Specialist consultations (with referral)
ï Diagnostic tests
ï Lab work
ï X-rays and imaging
ï Ultrasounds
ï CT scans, MRIs (with approval)
Hospital Services:
ï Emergency room care
ï Hospitalization
ï Surgery
ï Intensive care
ï Recovery and rehabilitation
Maternity & Children:
ï Prenatal care
ï Delivery and childbirth
ï Postnatal care
ï Well-baby visits
ï Vaccinations
ï Child development monitoring
Chronic Illness:
ï Diabetes management
ï Heart disease treatment
ï Cancer care
ï Chronic medication
ï Long-term disease management
**Mental Health: **Mental health services are fully integrated. Mental health services are included. The co-pay for a therapy session is around $10.
Includes:
ï Psychological counseling
ï Psychiatric care
ï Social work services
ï Occupational therapy (some clinics)
ï Subsidized with quarterly co-payment
Emergency Care:
ï Ambulance services (fees apply - see below)
ï Emergency room treatment
ï Urgent care centers
ï After-hours medical care
Medications:
ï Prescription drugs in health basket
ï Co-pays apply (typically ₪10-30 per prescription)
ï Generic medications preferred
ï Some brand-name drugs require approval
Preventive Services:
ï Annual checkups
ï Cancer screenings
ï Vaccinations
ï Health monitoring
WHAT'S NOT COVERED (REQUIRES SUPPLEMENTAL):
Dental Care:
ï NOT included in basic basket (except emergency)
ï Children: Some coverage for basic dental
ï Adults: Need supplemental insurance or pay privately
Advanced Treatments:
ï Some specialized procedures
ï Experimental treatments
ï Cosmetic procedures
ï Alternative medicine (unless approved)
Private Hospital Rooms:
ï Basic basket = shared rooms
ï Private rooms require supplemental insurance
Certain Medications:
ï Some drugs not in basket
ï Brand-name when generic available
ï Experimental drugs
Enhanced Services:
ï Faster specialist appointments
ï Second opinions
ï Choice of surgeon
ï Private consultations
SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE (BITUACH MASHLIM)
What is Supplemental Insurance?
Optional additional coverage beyond basic basket, purchased from your Kupat Cholim.
Why Get It?
About 80% of Israelis purchase supplemental coverage. Supplemental plans offer wider selection of medications, consultations with professionals outside health plans (second opinions), dental medicine, surgery abroad, and alternative medicine including chiropractics, homeopathy.
Benefits:
ï Dental coverage (major savings!)
ï Private hospital rooms
ï Reduced wait times
ï Choice of specialists
ï Second opinions
ï Alternative medicine
ï Enhanced medication coverage
ï Surgery abroad (if needed)
ï Travel insurance sometimes included
Cost:
Cost of supplemental plan varies based on following factors: your age, size of your family, and type of plan you select.
Typical Prices:
ï Basic plans: ₪50-100/month per person
ï Mid-level: ₪100-150/month
ï Premium: ₪150-250/month
ï Family discounts available
ï Children cheaper than adults
Wait Periods - CRITICAL FOR OLIM:
The kupot have set "qualification periods" (waiting period), in order to receive certain benefits. Most benefits have a 6 months waiting period, but time periods can vary from 3 months to up to 2 years.
HUGE BENEFIT FOR OLIM:
Those who join within 90 days of Aliyah are entitled to have the wait periods waived. This is a major benefit that can save you months of time, and give you early access to many worthwhile benefits.
What This Means:
ï Join within 90 days of aliyah = NO waiting periods
ï Can use all benefits immediately
ï Save 6 months to 2 years of waiting
ï Strongly recommended to join within 90 days
ï Maccabi recently began waiving wait periods for Olim who join within one year of Aliyah. Nonetheless, we still recommend joining within 90 days of Aliyah
How to Sign Up:
**Best Time: **Within first 90 days of aliyah
Process:
- Visit your Kupah office or use app/website
- Compare plan levels
- Choose plan that fits needs and budget
- Complete application
- Set up payment (credit card or direct debit)
- Coverage begins immediately (no waiting if within 90 days)
**Tip: **As new Olim, joining supplemental plan within first 90 days after arrival will waive any waiting period for services.
HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS - USING YOUR HEALTHCARE
Making Appointments:
**Online/App: **The most common and convenient method. All Kupot Cholim have sophisticated websites and mobile apps. **Phone: **Call your Kupot Cholim's main call center or your specific clinic directly. **In-Person: **Visit your local clinic during reception hours.
Typical Process:
- Book appointment through app (easiest)
- OR call clinic directly
- OR visit clinic reception
- Bring Kupah card to appointment
- Small co-pay at visit (if any)
Seeing Specialists:
**Requirement: **For almost all specialist visits within Kupat Cholim system, you will need a Hafnaya from your Rofeh Mishpacha.
Process:
- See family doctor first
- Doctor evaluates and gives referral (Hafnaya)
- Book specialist appointment with Hafnaya
- Attend specialist appointment
- Specialist reports back to family doctor
**Cannot: **Go directly to specialist (except emergency)
Getting Medications:
Process:
- Doctor prescribes medication
- Prescription sent electronically to pharmacy
- Go to any Kupah pharmacy (or contracted pharmacy)
- Show Kupah card
- Pay co-pay (₪10-30 typically)
- Receive medication
Refills:
ï Usually automatic through app
ï Some require doctor renewal
ï Chronic medications: Long-term prescriptions
Lab Tests & Imaging:
Process:
- Doctor orders test
- Sent electronically to lab
- Go to clinic lab or contracted lab
- Show Kupah card
- Test done (usually free or small co-pay)
- Results sent to doctor
- View results in app
CO-PAYS AND COSTS
What You Pay (Even with Basic Coverage):
Doctor Visits:
ï Family doctor: Usually free or ₪10-20
ï Specialist: ₪25-50
ï Urgent care: ₪50-70
ï Emergency room: ₪135 (waived if admitted)
Medications:
ï Generic: ₪10-15
ï Brand name: ₪20-30
ï Some expensive drugs: Higher
ï Chronic medications: Quarterly payments
Tests:
ï Lab work: Usually free
ï X-rays: Free or small fee
ï Advanced imaging: May require co-pay
Mental Health:
ï Therapy session: ₪40 approximately
ï Quarterly payment system
**Ambulance: **You must pay for ambulance service when calling ambulance in Israel. If you have coverage through Kupat Cholim, you can get full or partial coverage, depending on conditions. If you or your relative doesn't fall into this category, it'll probably be cheaper to get to medical facility by cab.
Costs Reduced with Supplemental Insurance
AFTER FREE PERIOD ENDS
What Happens When You Start Working:
You don't lose your doctor or your Kupat Holim card. Membership continues as usual same clinics, same prescriptions, same access. The system just moves from state-funded to your own contributions.
How Contributions Work:
No direct monthly premiums paid to your Kupat Cholim. Instead, health insurance contributions are collected via Bituach Leumi as part of your overall social security payments.
For Employees:
ï Deducted automatically from salary
ï Employer handles payment to Bituach Leumi
ï You don't pay Kupah directly
ï Based on income percentage
For Self-Employed:
ï Pay Bituach Leumi directly
ï Quarterly or monthly payments
ï Based on declared income
ï Health insurance included in payment
For Unemployed:
ï May qualify for subsidized or free coverage
ï Contact Bituach Leumi
ï Prove unemployment status
ï Coverage continues
SWITCHING KUPOT CHOLIM
Can You Change?
Yes!
If you decide to change your Kupat Cholim you can always switch to another one. There are six dates a year when Kupat Cholim changes officially go into effect and you can change twice in a 12-month period.
Rules:
ï Can switch twice per year
ï Only on specific dates (every 2 months)
ï Takes between 45-105 days from day you apply until change is official
**Special for New Olim: **As an Oleh, you can change your initial HMO within 14 days of your Aliyah date at your local post office.
How to Switch:
Transfer form must be filled out completely according to instructions. For purpose of identifying registrant, and to prevent forgeries, you will be asked to fill in personal Israeli credit card information (not ATM or Debit card), but service is provided free of charge.
Process:
- Go to Bituach Leumi website
- Complete transfer form
- Provide credit card for verification (no charge)
- Submit application
- Wait 45-105 days for transfer
- Receive new Kupah card
What Transfers:
ï Your medical records
ï Supplemental insurance benefits (including wait periods served)
ï Chronic medication prescriptions
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR NEW OLIM
Language Barriers:
For new olim, figuring out healthcare can feel overwhelming, especially with language barrier. Most clinics run in Hebrew, but in bigger cities you'll find doctors who speak English, Russian, French, or Amharic. Even in smaller towns, often at least one doctor or nurse who can switch to another language.
Strategies:
ï Specifically request English-speaking doctor when registering
ï Ask other Olim for doctor recommendations
ï Bring translator friend to appointments
ï Use Google Translate app
ï Many forms available in English
ï Kupot have English customer service
Register IMMEDIATELY:
Why Rush?
ï Coverage begins only after registration
ï Accidents/illness can happen anytime
ï Free period clock starts at aliyah, not registration
ï Don't waste free coverage days
**Best Practice: **Register at airport or within first 48 hours
Join Supplemental Within 90 Days:
Why?
ï Waives all waiting periods
ï Access to dental immediately
ï Can use all benefits right away
ï Save months/years of waiting
ï Most important Olim benefit
**Cost: **Worth the investment - dental alone saves money
Choose Family Doctor Carefully:
ï Affects your entire healthcare experience
ï Can switch every 3 months if not satisfied
ï Ask Olim for recommendations
ï Try to find one who speaks your language
ï Location matters (near home/work)
Download App Immediately:
ï Most convenient way to access healthcare
ï Make appointments anytime
ï View test results
ï Renew prescriptions
ï No need to call or visit
Bring Medications from Home:
We recommend bringing three-month supply of your medication or whatever your present health plan allots for.
Why?
ï Gives time to find equivalent in Israel
ï Doctor needs to evaluate and prescribe
ï Some medications may not be available
ï Brand names differ
ï Avoids gaps in treatment
Understand Referral System:
ï Can't see specialists without referral
ï Family doctor is gatekeeper
ï Build good relationship with family doctor
ï Referrals usually electronic and immediate
SPECIAL SITUATIONS
For Babies Born in Israel:
Babies born in Israel are automatically registered. Registration is not automatic. Registration must be done before baby turns one month old to ensure coverage in case of hospitalization.
Process:
- Baby receives temporary coverage at birth
- Must register before 1 month old
- Go to Kupah with birth certificate
- Baby added to parent's account
- Receives own card
**IMPORTANT: **Don't delay - register within first month!
For Pregnant Women:
Excellent Coverage:
ï All prenatal care covered
ï Regular checkups
ï Ultrasounds
ï Tests and monitoring
ï Delivery fully covered
ï Postnatal care
ï No co-pays for most maternity services
Choose Kupah with Good Maternity Services:
ï Check which hospitals they work with
ï Ask about birthing center options
ï Maternity clinics (Tipat Chalav)
For Chronic Conditions:
Well Managed:
ï Israel excellent for chronic disease management
ï Diabetes clinics
ï Heart disease programs
ï Cancer centers
ï Full coverage for chronic medications
ï Regular monitoring included
**Tip: **Bring full medical records from home country (translated if possible)
For Mental Health:
New Olim generally receive grace period (usually their first year) where Bituach Leumi payments for health insurance are covered by Misrad Haklita.
**Special Support for Olim: **Ministry of Aliyah and Integration is offering emotional support to Olim through Eran Association, especially during emergency and security situations. Eran hotline has extended hours and available daily from 16:00 at *3201. You can also contact Ministry directly at *2994.
Services Available:
ï Mental health clinics at all Kupot
ï Subsidized therapy (₪40 per session)
ï Psychiatric care
ï Crisis intervention
ï Olim-specific support
For Children:
Excellent Pediatric Care:
ï Tipat Chalav (well-baby clinics)
ï Regular developmental checkups
ï All vaccinations free
ï School health services
ï Comprehensive children's health
Well-Baby Clinics (Tipat Chalav):
ï Run by Ministry of Health
ï Free services
ï Monitor development
ï Vaccinations
ï Parenting support
ï All children registered
COMPARISON TOOL
Ministry of Health has online calculator that allows you to compare four Kupat Cholim based on their services and fees. Calculator currently only in Hebrew.
Also Check:
ï Olim Facebook groups for real experiences
ï Ask neighbors and friends
ï Compare supplemental insurance offerings
ï Check clinic locations
RESOURCES & CONTACTS
The Four Kupot Cholim:
Clalit:
ï Phone: *2700 or 1-222-2700
ï English website available
Maccabi:
ï Phone: *3555 or 1-700-505-353
ï English website available
ï Registration help: Shimon Klein 052-761-1203
Meuhedet:
ï Phone: *3833
ï Jerusalem foreigners: 02-6503392, 02-6503219
ï Email: TouristJer@meuhedet.co.il
ï English website available
Leumit:
ï Phone: *507 or 1-700-507-507
ï Email available on website
ï English website available
Government Agencies:
Bituach Leumi (National Insurance):
ï Phone: *6050
ï For contribution questions and registration issues
Ministry of Health:
ï Information on health basket
ï Medication lists
ï Health policies
Ministry of Aliyah (Misrad Haklita):
ï Phone: *2994
ï For Olim health insurance questions
ï Registration assistance
Support Organizations:
Nefesh B'Nefesh:
ï Phone: *3680
ï Email: answers@nbn.org.il
ï Can connect you with Kupah liaisons
Other Resources:
ï Chaim V'Chessed: Comprehensive health insurance guides
ï Shivat Zion: Healthcare navigation guides
COMPLETE REGISTRATION CHECKLIST
☐ BEFORE ARRIVAL
ï [ ] Research the four Kupot Cholim
ï [ ] Read about each one
ï [ ] Ask other Olim for recommendations
ï [ ] Decide which Kupah you want
ï [ ] Check clinic locations near your future address
ï [ ] Bring 3-month medication supply
ï [ ] Translate medical records if possible
☐ AT AIRPORT (DAY 1)
ï [ ] Look for Kupat Cholim registration desk
ï [ ] Register with chosen Kupah
ï [ ] Complete all forms
ï [ ] Receive temporary card
ï [ ] Ask about supplemental insurance (can do later)
ï [ ] Get clinic addresses near you
ï [ ] Save Kupah contact info
☐ FIRST WEEK
ï [ ] Receive permanent Kupah card in mail
ï [ ] Download Kupah mobile app
ï [ ] Register online account
ï [ ] Choose family doctor (Rofeh Mishpacha)
ï [ ] Locate nearest clinic
ï [ ] Save clinic phone number
ï [ ] Learn how to make appointments
ï [ ] Understand urgent care options
☐ WITHIN 90 DAYS
ï [ ] **JOIN SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE **(critical!)
ï [ ] Compare supplemental plans
ï [ ] Choose plan level
ï [ ] Sign up (in person, online, or by phone)
ï [ ] Set up payment
ï [ ] Confirm no waiting periods as new Oleh
ï [ ] Download confirmation
☐ ONGOING
ï [ ] Make first appointment (even just checkup)
ï [ ] Establish relationship with family doctor
ï [ ] Refill any chronic medications
ï [ ] Update address if you move
ï [ ] Keep Kupah card with you always
ï [ ] Learn system and how it works
ï [ ] Help newer Olim understand system
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
**Q: What if I don't register immediately? **A: You have no health coverage! Register ASAP - can be done at airport, Kupah office, or Israel Post.
**Q: Can I use any doctor? **A: Only doctors within your Kupat Cholim network. If you see outside doctor, you pay out of pocket.
**Q: What if I don't like my Kupah? **A: Can switch twice per year on specific dates. New Olim can change within 14 days at post office.
**Q: Is coverage really free? **A: Yes, first 6-12 months if unemployed/low income. Then contributions based on salary.
**Q: What about dental? **A: NOT covered in basic basket. Need supplemental insurance or pay privately. Join supplemental within 90 days!
**Q: Can I be denied coverage? **A: No! All Kupot must accept everyone regardless of age, health, or pre-existing conditions.
**Q: What about my medications? **A: Bring 3 months supply. Doctor will evaluate and prescribe Israeli equivalent.
**Q: Do I need insurance at airport? **A: Can register at airport for immediate coverage, but not required. Can register at Kupah office next day.
**Q: How much will supplemental insurance cost? **A: ₪50-250/month depending on age and plan level. Worth it for dental alone.
**Q: What if I have emergency before registering? **A: Go to emergency room - will be treated. But register immediately to avoid future issues.
**Q: Can my family be on different Kupot? **A: Yes, but unusual. Usually whole family on same Kupah for convenience.
**Q: Is Israeli healthcare good? **A: Yes! Ranked 5th globally by WHO. World-class medical care.
FINAL WORDS
Registering for health insurance is one of the most important steps in your aliyah. Israel's universal healthcare system is excellent, and as a new Oleh you get **FREE coverage **for your first 6-12 months.
Key Takeaways:
ï ✓ Register immediately (at airport or within days)
ï ✓ Choose Kupah based on location and needs
ï ✓ All four provide same basic coverage
ï ✓ **JOIN SUPPLEMENTAL WITHIN 90 DAYS **(huge benefit!)
ï ✓ Choose family doctor carefully
ï ✓ Download Kupah app
ï ✓ System is excellent once you understand it
ï ✓ Free for first 6-12 months!
You have access to world-class healthcare. Don't delay registration - your health and peace of mind depend on it!
B'hatzlacha (Good luck) and stay healthy in Israel! Questions? Contact:
ï Your chosen Kupat Cholim
ï Nefesh B'Nefesh: *3680
ï Misrad Haklita: *2994
ï Fellow Olim in your community
Updated on: 02/02/2026
Thank you!