Tips and Resources for Olim and Anglos Living in Israel

The foundation of a successful Aliyah lies in the proper paperwork and documentation. Belong is here to guide you through it all. For most people, this is the process you’ll need to take to claim citizenship, relocate, and settle into your new home. For step-by-step details, check out our Aliyah Process page. Now, let’s guide you through general tips regarding your paperwork, ensuring all your official documents are in order.

• Aliyah Paperwork – Begin by contacting Nefesh B’Nefesh (NBN) or The Jewish Agency for Israel. Complete the necessary forms and applications for Aliyah.

• Organize All Legal Documents – Organizing and updating essential legal documents is crucial in preparing for a major move. Ensure that your marriage licenses, wills, birth certificates, and other relevant paperwork are current and reflect your upcoming changes.
  Click here for more information about forms and documents.

• Notarization and Translation – Identify which documents need notarization and apostille stamps. Translation only applies if the documents are in a language other than English or Hebrew.

• Aliyah Visa – Apply for your Aliyah visa via the Jewish Agency to legalize your move. To do this, schedule an appointment to meet with the Jewish Agency. Having a confirmed Israeli address is a prerequisite for your Aliyah, whether it’s for direct absorption (klita) or through an absorption program.

• Passport Tips – Ensure your passport is up-to-date and valid for an extended period (at least 6 months). Before your move, confirm your initial accommodation in Israel.

Financial planning is key to a stress-free transition into life in Israel. Here are some insights into managing your finances, from banking to budgeting, ensuring a secure financial foundation as you start your new life. Check out our finance page for more information.

• Banking Arrangements – Inform your local bank in your home country about your move to Israel. Consider international credit cards and explore Israeli banking options online.

• Budget Planning – Create a budget plan for your initial months in Israel, accounting for housing, transportation, food, and other living expenses, taking into consideration the aid and support that is given by the state of Israel.

• Insurance Policies – Review and adjust your health, life, and property insurance policies in line with your relocation.

• Cancel Utilities – Reach out to each utility provider to inform them of your move-out date. Each company might have different procedures or notice periods, so contacting them well in advance is best.

• If You Owned a Leased Car – If you currently have a leased car and the lease term hasn’t ended by your Aliyah Date, look for a dealership or a private individual who can assume the remaining period of your lease. This step is crucial for resolving ongoing vehicle lease agreements before relocating.

• Clear Outstanding Bills – Make sure all your bills are paid up to date. Any unpaid bills might complicate your move or affect future credit.

Ensuring your healthcare needs are addressed is crucial before moving. This part of the checklist covers gathering medical records, understanding medication needs, and preparing for healthcare in Israel. For more information on healthcare, visit our page here.

• Medical Records – Gather and make copies of all medical and dental documents, including the vaccination records of all family members. It’s essential to have copies of these records for easy reference and official procedures in Israel.

• Medications –Ensure a sufficient supply (at least 3-6 months) of prescription medications for the initial months and make a list of over-the-counter medicines you regularly use.
  It’s possible that your specific medication may not be available in Israel. Speaking with your doctor about alternative medication options before your move is advisable. Additionally, we recommend checking to see if your medications are covered under available health insurance providers before making Aliyah.

Moving to a new country just might include the whole family. You should focus on certain aspects when preparing your family for the big move, addressing educational needs, and making sure the transition is smooth for everyone.

• School Records – Collect academic records and special education assessments for your children. Visit our education page for more information.

• Learning Hebrew – Acclimating to a new culture is an exciting part of moving to Israel. Let’s start with some guidance on learning Hebrew, helping you integrate into your new community. You can start learning Hebrew through online courses or local classes. Familiarity with the basics of Hebrew can help with your transition into Israeli society. You can even start learning for free through applications that are downloadable onto your mobile device. You’ll be able to get around fine with English, but learning the local language is recommended.
  Our Hebrew-English dictionary is a great way to get started. Check out our learning hebrew page for more information.

• Cultural Orientation – You’re moving to a whole new culture. That’s pretty amazing in itself, but reading about Israeli culture, customs, and holidays can help you understand an aspect of society that might be different from your own.

• Join a Supportive Olim Community – Loneliness is sometimes common for Olim who are leaving their families behind to move solo, but researching local Olim community options before making Aliyah can truly make all the difference.

Several communities, such as KeepOlim, operate much like family. Through various channels like Facebook groups, WhatsApp groups, and interactive workshops, they offer opportunities for Olim to bond and share valuable insights drawn from their own experiences.

When you’re making the big move to Israel, don’t forget that your pets need special attention too. It’s more than just booking a flight; it’s about ensuring they arrive safely and without stress. Here’s what you need to know:

• Pet Relocation Services – These services can be a game changer, offering comprehensive care from your current home to your new one in Israel. They handle the paperwork and travel arrangements and often give tips on how to acclimate your pet to their new environment.

• Health and Vaccination Records – Visiting your vet before the move is crucial. Your pets should have all their vaccinations up to date, and you’ll need to secure health certificates and possibly other medical documentation to ensure their entry into Israel.

• Quarantine and Import Regulations – Israel has specific requirements for pet importation that may include quarantine periods. You’ll need to be up to date with these regulations, which can change, to prevent any surprises upon arrival.

To learn more about relocating with pets, click here

Beginning a job hunt in Israel might seem daunting, but with the right approach and resources, you can tap into the thriving Israeli job market. Here’s how to get started:

• Resume Preparation – Crafting a resume that emphasizes your skills and experiences to resonate with Israeli employers is crucial. Take the time to edit your resume to align with local business culture and expectations.

• Networking – Building professional relationships is key. You can use platforms like LinkedIn and local networking events to connect with industry professionals and uncover hidden job opportunities.

• Job Portals and Agencies – Discover the most effective online job portals and recruitment agencies that can serve as your gateway to a wide range of opportunities across various sectors in Israel.

With these strategies in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the job search process and make a successful leap into your desired career path in Israel.

If you are a parent in a new environment, familiarizing yourself with the local education landscape is essential to help you make informed decisions for your children’s academic journey:

• School Types and Curricula – Explore the variety of educational institutions Israel has to offer, from public to private and secular to religious, each with its unique curriculum and philosophy.

• Enrollment Process – Learn the step-by-step procedure for getting your child admitted to an Israeli school, including the required documents and the right time to begin the process. Ensure you register your children for kindergarten or school for the academic year. If your child requires special assistance, discuss available services and the evaluation process with their teacher.

• Special Education Services – Gain insight into the supportive measures and tailored services available for children requiring special education, ensuring that every child receives the opportunity to succeed.

• Textbooks – Many schools in Israel feature a “book project,” a program designed to simplify the process of obtaining schoolbooks. By participating in this project, you can order most of the required textbooks in a more cost-effective and organized manner, which is beneficial in saving both time and money.

A Quick Tip: Maintaining regular communication with your children’s teachers is highly beneficial. This consistent contact helps ensure that the teachers are more engaged with your child’s education and gives you a clearer understanding of their academic and social progress.

Continuing your education or pursuing academics in Israel can be a rewarding experience, offering access to world-class institutions and diverse fields of study.

• Understanding the system – Israel offers a range of universities and colleges, each with its unique strengths. We recomend researching institutions based on your field of interest. Most universities offer undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. Check specific course requirements and durations.
  The Israeli university system might seem different if you are coming from the United States. Most bachelor’s programs in Israel are 3-year degrees, although some are 4 depending on the program.

• Application process – Admission requirements vary by institution and program. Generally, they include academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and language proficiency scores if you are coming from a non-English speaking country.
  If you plan to study in an Israeli university, printing copies of all documents, including high school diplomas and past academic transcripts before your move is crucial.

• Language of Instruction – While Hebrew is the primary language in Israel, many programs, in both the bachelor’s level and master’s level are offered in English. Most universities, like Ben Gurion, Tel Aviv, Bar Ilan, and IDC offer programs in English for international students. Here, you can connect with students from across the world in a single degree. Be sure to check your Aliyah benefits as they often cover university tuitions.

• Campus Life – Campus life in Israel is relaxed, and there are often campus activities and free events from beer stands to cultural foods that you might not find on an American campus. Although some institutions offer certain types of fraternities and clubs, they are not as popular in Israel. Also, sports are not a common aspect of Israeli university life.

• Accommodations – Explore on and off campus housing. Although convenient, campus housing tends to be overpriced. Sometimes, renting an apartment close to the university with other students can help you save more money, depending on the location.

• Choosing a Bank – There are several banking options in Israel, and choosing the best one for you will ensure a smooth transition from the American banking system.

• Opening a Bank Account – Bring the necessary documents including your temporary ID (Teudat Zehut), immigrant ID (Teudat Oleh), American Social Security number, and any forms you receive at the airport.

• Sal Klita and Ulpan vouchers – schedule a meeting with the Ministry of Integration (Misrad HaKlita) to obtain your Sal Klita and Ulpan vouchers. Remember to bring all your banking documents to this appointment.

• Health Insurance – Enroll in the health insurance plan of your choice among HMO options like Maccabi, Leumit, Clalit, or Meuchedet.

• The Shira Pransky Project is an invaluable resource for English-speaking Olim in Israel, designed to assist in navigating the complexities of the Israeli healthcare system. This project provides comprehensive guidance, support, and information, making the transition into the country’s health services smoother and more understandable for those who are more comfortable with English.
  For more information and to access their resources, visit the Shira Pransky Project’s website.

Obtaining a new Israeli passport or renewing an existing one is more cost-effective when you complete the transaction online, as opposed to doing it in person at an office. Remember, you need to fill out a separate form for each individual applying for a passport. This approach can lead to significant savings.

Visit the Bituach Leumi office, Israel’s National Insurance Institute, to complete paperwork for children’s savings programs and to explore other forms of assistance you might qualify for. This step is essential for accessing various social benefits available in Israel.

Registering for an Ulpan is a vital step in your Aliyah journey, especially for mastering Hebrew, the primary language of Israel. Ulpan classes are designed for all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers, and focus on enhancing your language skills in a practical, immersive environment. These classes not only aid in language learning but also offer a valuable opportunity to connect with other Olim and locals.

Once you are settled in Israel, it’s highly recommended to plan a few trips to explore and appreciate the country’s diverse beauty. Israel offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant cities. These excursions are not only a great way to unwind and enjoy your new surroundings but also provide an excellent opportunity to understand the cultural and geographical landscape of the country.

Be aware that Highway 6 in Israel, identifiable by its blue signs, is a toll road. Cameras installed along this route capture images of vehicle license plates to issue toll bills, which are then sent to the vehicle owner’s address. Stretching from Yokneam to Beer Sheva, this highway is a vital link across the country. For frequent users, it’s advisable to obtain a “Paskal,” similar to an EZ PASS, which offers a significant discount — using Highway 6 with a Paskal is about 40% cheaper compared to traveling without one.

Keep an eye on supermarket prices in Israel, as many stores run sales mid-week, allowing you to purchase goods at significantly reduced prices. Being aware of these discounts can lead to considerable savings on your grocery bills.

Monitoring your contracts for services like cell phones and the internet is important. Often, after the initial year, service providers may automatically increase the monthly rate. Regularly review your bills; if you notice an increase, don’t hesitate to contact your service provider to negotiate a better deal. If negotiations don’t yield a satisfactory result, consider indicating your willingness to switch to a different carrier. This approach can be effective, as many companies are likely to offer lower rates to retain customers.

In Israel, the local demeanor is often compared to that of sabras (the Hebrew name for prickly pears) – they may seem tough and resilient on the outside but are warm and hospitable once you get to know them. In many situations, approaching matters with politeness and persistence can be very effective. Even if you initially encounter a “no,” it doesn’t always mean a definitive refusal. You can often find a way to achieve favorable outcomes by continuing to inquire courteously and persistently. This represents the importance of understanding and adapting to the local communication style in Israel.