Returning Residents - Rights & Benefits

Old-Age Pension
A Toshav Chozer, recognized as a resident of Israel by the National Insurance Institute, is entitled to a senior citizen’s pension, like any resident of Israel, according to the established rules. This is designed to guarantee elderly residents a fixed monthly income. A senior citizen’s pension is paid from the retirement age, depending on the amount of income of the insured or from the age of eligibility for the pensions (age 70).

A resident who was born in Israel before the retirement age set by Israeli law (62 for men or the age for women) is entitled to a pension when meeting the eligibility conditions. A Toshav Chozer who returned to Israel after this age may be entitled to a special senior citizen benefit. A resident of Israel who has moved abroad to a convention state may be entitled to a senior citizen’s pension, even if the Toshav Chozer has revoked their Israeli citizenship.

Individuals residing in nations that have an agreement with Israel can qualify for additional benefits for their spouses under the Old-Age Pension Law, even if these spouses do not hold Israeli residency, provided they meet the law’s spousal criteria. Upon returning to Israel, residents can claim these spousal increments only if their partners are acknowledged as Israeli residents and fulfill the definition of a spouse outlined in the Old-Age Pension Law.

For an individual Toshav Chozer, the income cap is set at 2,680 NIS. A household of 2 can receive assistance if their combined income does not exceed 3,694 NIS. For a family of 3, the threshold is 4,106 NIS; for families of 4 or more, the income limit increases to 4,836 NIS as of 2024.

Please note that an unemployed Toshav Chozer, categorized as “seeking employment,” qualifies for assured income, provided they report to the Government Employment Service or the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.

For a Toshav Chozer, the eligibility window for receiving assured income extends through the end of the first year after their return to Israel. Within this first year, the assistance is available for a period of 3 months, offering financial support during this initial resettlement phase.

A Toshav Chozer student engaged in academics beyond the high school level is not eligible for assured income. Instead, such students are advised to contact the Student Authority to explore their eligibility for financial assistance, which may include subsistence loans designed to support their educational journey.

The Employment Division provides a Toshav Chozer with support through a Voucher Program covering part of the professional or vocational training costs. This program is designed to broaden the employment opportunities for eligible individuals by offering them a wider selection of vocational training options.

Application Process
A Toshav Chozer interested in this opportunity should consult with an Aliyah and Integration counselor in their regional district to verify their eligibility. Applications can also be submitted online through a “Personal Account” portal.

Applicants are required to provide:

• A detailed cost proposal from the educational institution
• The study program outline
• Approval or recognition of the study program by an authorized professional body or a commitment to professional guidance post-completion for non-recognized institutions

For convenience, visit this link to schedule an appointment during public reception hours or at self-service stations.

Who’s Eligible?
To qualify for an Employment voucher, a Toshav Chozer must:

• Have complete Hebrew learning (Ulpan) level “Aleph” or possess equivalent Hebrew proficiency. Exceptions are available for those with learning disabilities, who may receive a voucher for studies in their native language without Hebrew proficiency
• Be unemployed or employed in a position not matching their professional skills
• Possess skills or qualifications from abroad that are not in demand in Israel
• Be referred to professional training by an Employment Center
• Seek to study a profession in demand in Israel

Please note that eligibility for assistance is subject to the availability of budgets of the district and the Employment Division. Also, the above information is subject to certain circumstances that may affect eligibility; these include:

• The length of the Toshav Chozer’s residency in Israel
• Family status

Always consult with the nearest office of the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration (link above) to confirm that the information applies to your specific situation.

A comprehensive list of approved courses and study areas eligible for the Costs of Professional Training (vouchers) program is available here (in Hebrew) for those who qualify.

For a Toshav Chozer aiming to reintegrate into Israel’s labor market, the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration offers targeted assistance to facilitate this transition. This support not only aids in finding suitable employment but also allows employers to evaluate the potential and skills of the Toshav Chozer.

There are several key aspects of receiving this assistance; these include:

• Employer Engagement – Employers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Toshav Chozer’s capabilities, with an expectation of continued employment post-assistance period, for at least the same duration as the assistance provided, along with necessary training

• Application Considerations – The Ministry considers various factors when reviewing applications, including the employer’s nature, job location, role scope, and salary. Priority is given to aligning a Toshav Chozer with roles that match their educational background and professional experience in line with current market demands and Ministry policies

• Eligibility Period – A Toshav Chozer is eligible for this assistance up to 24 months from the date they regain their resident status in Israel

Assistance for a Toshav Chozer is accessible to individuals from age 18 up to retirement age, catering to both those already employed and those in search of employment, including a Toshav Chozer who has commenced work up to 3 months before applying. Additionally, professional athletes or coaches holding academic degrees and professional recognition from the Ministry of Culture and Sport are eligible for this assistance.

To apply, a Toshav Chozer must submit the necessary forms at the Ministry’s office. Please note that assistance is awarded based on the decision of a District Committee of the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, subject to compliance with the ministry’s regulations and budget availability.

For more information or to access the PDF versions of the application forms, visit the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration’s website.

A Toshav Chozer who chooses to participate in a professional training course that was recommended to him as part of the consultation will be able to receive assistance for participating in the cost of the course (through a voucher) in accordance with the eligibility procedures.

To receive occupational-psychological counseling, a referral must be received from the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.

Employment Centers across Israel offer tailored support to help a Toshav Chozer seamlessly integrate into the Israeli job market, ensuring their skills and professional backgrounds find the perfect match.

In cases where difficulties are discovered in recommending a particular course, the Toshav Chozer can receive a referral for employment – psychological counseling at several employment centers throughout the country. They will be able to choose the place of receiving counseling services according to their place of residence.

The participation in the cost of the exam fee for professional courses that require licensing is subject to the procedure of employment. Assistance with the cost of the exam fee is based upon the fixed maximum budget.

The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration has crafted a specialized pathway for a Toshav Chozer, who is at the forefront of technology and innovation, including Technological Entrepreneurs, Scientists, and Professionals in high-tech and Biotech. This distinctive track is designed to transform ideas into successful Israeli startups, offering a “basket” of professional support services. These services are tailored to nurture the development of science or high-tech startups in Israel, turning entrepreneurial dreams into realities.

An eligible Toshav Chozer can benefit from a variety of tools and services aimed at professional development, including:

• Conducting business feasibility studies
• Providing business advice and counseling at no cost
• Assisting in the development of a business model
• Offering loan financing under preferential terms
• Subsidizing the preparation of business plans
• Courses on establishing and managing a startup
• Tax consultation specifically tailored for a Toshav Chozer

Please note that services are available to a Toshav Chozer, subject to the Ministry’s criteria. Space in the course is limited, emphasizing the exclusivity and value of this opportunity.

The Business Entrepreneurs Division is a central hub of expertise in this arena for inquiries, advice requests, or any assistance. For those interested in the program, contact the Start-Up Center to get started.
Reach out via email at [email protected] for more information or visit this link.

Who’s Eligible & What Will You Receive?
A Toshav Chozer has a unique opportunity to jumpstart their entrepreneurial journey with support available for up to 2 years after gaining Toshav Chozer status. This support package is designed to cover all the essentials needed to bring a start-up idea to life, from the initial concept to operational execution. Here’s what you can expect:

• Thorough needs assessment to understand your project’s requirements
• Assistance in the early stages of project development
• Guidance in creating a viable business model
• Access to financing loans with favorable terms to get your business off the ground
• Subsidized assistance in drafting a detailed business plan tailored for startups
• Expert business consulting to navigate the complexities of establishing a new venture in Israel
• Enrollment in specialized courses for starting and managing a startup, noting that spaces are limited
• Tailored tax advice to ensure financial efficiency

To apply for support in establishing a start-up, you can fill out this online contact form, call directly at 03-5501128, or email any questions to [email protected]

A Toshav Chozer, who is a business entrepreneur, may qualify for an income guarantee during the initial phase of their venture, even before assistance from economic funds kicks in and irrespective of when their VAT file is opened. This financial support extends up until the business becomes operational, providing a safety net as they lay the groundwork for their enterprise.

The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration offers a scholarship program for research and post-doctoral students through the Center for Integration in Science. This initiative is designed to support doctoral and post-doctoral scholars in their academic pursuits, facilitating their research endeavors and contributing to Israel’s academic and scientific community.

Scholarship for Research Students
This program targets a Toshav Chozer, who has been back in Israel for no more than 1 year and who is up to age 37. It provides financial support for those accepted as research students at recognized Israeli universities, covering both tuition and living expenses. Candidates can choose between a pre-doctorate track, which includes 1 year of research team involvement followed by 2 years of doctoral scholarship, or a direct 3-year doctoral track. Applications are accepted year-round, with requirements including documentation of previous degrees, mentor agreement, and a commitment to community service.

Postdoctoral Fellowships
Similarly, the postdoctoral fellowships program is available to a Toshav Chozer, who meets the same time frame criteria and has already earned a PhD degree and has been accepted for a postdoctoral position at a recognized Israeli university. The Ministry contributes to the fellowship costs, with additional support provided by the hosting university. This program supports the fellows’ research projects and aids in their professional development within Israel’s academic landscape.

To find more detailed information on eligibility, application processes, and further assistance, consult the Studies in Israel site (Hebrew website).

Lone soldiers (Chayal Boded) serving in compulsory roles are entitled to a monthly grant from the IDF, supplementing their standard salary. Additionally, the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration offers a separate monthly grant, provided the soldier’s conscription occurs within 5 years of their return date. This financial support aims to assist lone soldiers in managing their expenses and ensuring a more comfortable service period.

To apply for the grant, you must visit the nearest Ministry of Aliyah and Integration office with an ID and complete a grant request form, with payments made directly to your bank accounts.

The IDF contributes towards rental and maintenance costs for lone soldiers. Those in need of housing assistance can also turn to the Ministry of Construction and Housing, which offers support beyond the standard eligibility period. Required documentation includes a Toshav Chozer Certificate, ID, proof of military service, and a summary of housing assistance received.

The IDF Special Fund is available for assistance for lone soldiers facing exceptional financial hardships. Regarding leave, lone soldiers with overseas parents are entitled to 21 days of leave annually, with options for extended leave under certain conditions, including family emergencies, for which the IDF covers travel expenses. Soldiers are reminded to ensure their passports are valid for overseas travel, as the IDF does not provide insurance for these periods.

The IDF collaborates with kibbutzim and city families willing to host lone soldiers during their leave, offering them a sense of home and community. Interested soldiers should speak with their Conditions of Service officer to explore these options.

Soldiers with families may qualify for monthly family payments to ensure their families meet a minimum income threshold. This assistance considers the total family income when evaluating eligibility for monthly support, which is directly deposited into the soldier’s parents’ bank account. Soldiers eligible for family payments may receive:

• A monthly grant from the IDF, enhancing their salary
• Gift coupons during holidays, provided twice a year
• A Sibling Grant
• Financial support for grocery purchases, determined by the family’s economic status

Benefits available to eligible soldiers during military service include access to an Assistance Fund (Keren Siua), financial support for groceries, a Command Bonus (Ma’anak Pikudi), loans, special leave, permission for private employment, and a “Bezek” grant via the conditions of service NCO (Mashakit Tash). The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration’s staff at branch and district offices are ready to provide all necessary assistance to ensure soldiers receive every entitled benefit.

If you’re exploring the possibility of resettling in Israel, you can request a 1 year “adjustment period upon arrival.” During this time, you may opt not to be considered Israeli residents for income tax purposes. This adjustment year offers the flexibility to assess resettlement plans without the full scope of tax obligations, except for taxes on any income earned within Israel.

At the conclusion of this period, you can make an informed decision about your permanent stay in Israel and avail yourself of the comprehensive benefits entitled to you as a resident.

To utilize the Acclimation Year benefit, complete the online application form for the acclimation year and submit it to the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. This must be done within 90 days of your arrival in Israel.

The Customs Authorities, under the Ministry of Finance, offer specific benefits to a Toshav Chozer, including a 9 month exemption from customs duties on personal importation from the date of return to Israel. This exemption period does not account for any IDF service time.

It’s important to distinguish between short-term and long-term Toshav Chozer statuse. A short-term Toshav Chozer refers to Israeli citizens who have lived abroad for less than 6 years and may receive limited benefits and earlier tax obligations due to presumed stronger ties to Israel. In contrast, a long-term Toshav Chozer, those who have lived abroad for more than 6 years, are eligible for more substantial benefits and tax concessions, including significant tax breaks similar to those granted to new Olim, such as exemptions from reporting overseas income and assets for up to 10 years.

Additionally, a long-term Toshav Chozer, who purchased an apartment before returning to Israel, is eligible for purchase tax relief, further easing their reintegration into Israeli society.

Importing a Personal Vehicle
A Toshav Chozer who has spent at least 2 years and 18 months abroad, respectively, is eligible to import a vehicle into Israel under specific conditions. Firstly, the vehicle must receive import approval from the Ministry of Transportation. Importers must hold a valid Israeli driver’s license for the vehicle type they wish to import.

Additionally, the vehicle must be no more than 48 months old from its date of manufacture at the time of import. The import process must be completed within 9 months of the importer’s entry into Israel, and importers must be at least 17 years old on the day they arrive in Israel.