Teudat Zehut: Israeli ID Guide for New Olim
- All About Aliyah
- Mar 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 12
Getting your Teudat Zehut (תעודת זהות) is one of the first steps after making Aliyah. We created this Teudat Zehut Guide to help you navigate the process of getting your official Israeli ID card, which proves your identity and citizenship status.
What is a Teudat Zehut?
The Teudat Zehut (תעודת זהות) is the official Israeli ID card issued to all citizens and permanent residents. As a new Oleh, you’ll receive a temporary version at the airport, and then you’ll need to get your full Teudat Zehut at your local Misrad HaPnim branch (משרד הפנים).
Your ID card contains:
Full name in Hebrew and English
Date of birth
Gender
Personal ID number
Digital photo
Why it’s important: You’ll need your Teudat Zehut for banking, signing rental contracts, health insurance, and many other official services.
What is the ספח (Appendix)?
When you receive your Teudat Zehut, you’ll also get a ספח — an official appendix attached to your ID. This document includes additional information about your personal status and family members.
The ספח is often required for:
Registering for health insurance
Signing official documents
Certain government services and benefits
It’s a small but important companion to your Teudat Zehut, so make sure to keep it safe along with your ID.
Tip: Keep both ספח (Appendix) and תעודת זהות (Israeli ID) together in your wallet.
Step-by-Step Teudat Zehut Guide
Book Your Appointment – The fastest way is either through the MyVisit website or app. You can select a date, time, and branch that’s convenient for you. Alternatively, you can book directly through the official Government Biometric Portal.
Bring Your Documents – Usually, you’ll need your Teudat Oleh, passport, and any temporary Teudat Zehut you received at the airport.
Go to Your Appointment – Arrive on time and follow the instructions at the branch. The staff will take your photo and give you your official Teudat Zehut along with the ספח.
Tip: Make sure to bring passport photos when asking for your Israeli passport. Most branches can process it right away if you have them, saving you an extra trip.
Choosing the Right Branch
A big tip for new Olim: not all branches are equal. Misrad HaPnim offices in big cities like Tel Aviv or Jerusalem are often extremely busy, with hundreds of appointments each day. Visits can feel rushed and stressful.
Tip 1: Look at more distant or less common branches, even if it means planning a day trip. Your visit will be much more relaxed, and it’s also a wonderful chance to see more of the beautiful land of Israel while taking care of your ID and passport.
Tip 2: Click here, to see different locations of Misrad Hapnim - משרד הפנים (Ministry of Interior).
Common Questions
Q: How long does it take to get my Teudat Zehut?
A: Usually, you receive it the same day at the branch after your appointment.
Q: Can I book online?
A: Yes! Using the MyVisit website or app is the easiest way to secure your appointment.
Q: What if I need to change my information later?
A: Name changes, address updates, or corrections can be done at any Misrad HaPnim branch with your ID and supporting documents.
Q: Is it necessary to have Teudat Zehut immediately?
A: Yes. Many services require it, so it’s one of the first things you should organize as a new Oleh.
Final Tip
Plan your appointment at a less busy branch, and make it a small adventure. The visit will be easier, and you’ll get to explore a part of Israel you might not have seen before.
A calm branch makes the experience much more enjoyable and stress-free — and that’s exactly the kind of start every new Oleh deserves/
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