Planning Your Move to Israel

Pre-Aliyah Checklist

From paperwork to packing, financial planning to health coverage, having a clear pre-aliyah checklist can save you time, stress, and money.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your move to Israel.

Verify Your Eligibility

1

Before anything else, make sure you qualify under the Law of Return:

Jewish by birth or recognized conversion
Children or grandchildren of Jews

Spouses of Jews or their descendants

Tip: Before applying, check with the Jewish Agency to ensure all your documents — including birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of Jewish status — are complete and accurate.

Choose
the
Right Timing

Decide on the best time to make aliyah based on:

2

Job or school schedules
Family commitments
Seasonal factors in Israel (housing availability, weather, etc.)

You’ll need:

Passport and birth certificate
Proof of Jewish status
Marriage/divorce certificates (if applicable)
Vaccination records and health documents
Recent photos

3

Tip: Keep both originals and copies organized.

Prepare Your Documents

1

4

Financial Planning

Open an international bank account if needed
Prepare funds for initial expenses like housing, transportation, and groceries

Check for Sal Klita (Absorption Grant) eligibility and other financial benefits for new olim

Tip: Click here to read more about Sal Klita.

5

Make sure all vaccinations are up to date

Check your current health insurance and plan for transitioning to a Kupat Holim in Israel

Tip: Click on each Kupat Holim — Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, or Leumit — to see which one best fits your needs.

Health
and Insurance

Housing & Accommodation

Decide on the best time to make aliyah based on:

6

Research cities and neighborhoods based on lifestyle, work, and schooling
Consider temporary housing initially, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area
Contact real estate agents or online portals to find long-term housing

7

Employment & Education

Prepare your CV in Hebrew (and English if needed)
Explore job opportunities and networking channels
For students, verify transfer of credits or enrollment in Israeli schools/universities

Tip: Click here to see which colleges in Israel offer programs taught in English.

Packing & Shipping

Decide what to ship, sell, or donate
Check customs regulations for importing household goods and vehicles
Label everything clearly and keep an inventory

8

9

Start ulpan (Hebrew courses) before arrival if possible
Learn about Israeli culture, laws, and everyday customs
Join online communities or groups of Olim to get firsthand advice

Tip 1: Click here to see the different types of Ulpan programs available for young adults.

Tip 2: Interested in combining Hebrew learning with community life?

Click here to explore Kibbutz Ulpans across Israel.

Tip 3: Join Facebook and WhatsApp groups for “Olim" in your city — it’s the fastest way to make friends and find local help.

Language
&
Cultural Preparation

10

Final Checklist Before Departure

Confirm flights and travel arrangements
Notify banks, insurance companies, and relevant authorities
Keep copies of all important documents in your carry-on

Tip: Make sure your phone is unlocked before flying — it’ll make the SIM setup instant and hassle-free.

Final
Tip

Open your Israeli bank account and register with Misrad HaKlita as soon as you arrive to activate all your aliyah benefits.

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