What is Aliyah?
Aliyah (עלייה, literally "ascent") is Jewish immigration to Israel. Every Jewish individual, their children and grandchildren and their spouses have the right to immigrate to Israel under the Law of Return (1950).
Phase 1 — The Decision (D-12 to D-9)
Contact the Jewish Agency (Sokhnout) to open a file. From the US: 1-866-835-0430. From Israel: 02-620-2538.
Gather documents: birth certificates (with apostille), marriage certificate, proof of Judaism, valid passport (6+ months), criminal background check.
Phase 2 — Preparation (D-9 to D-6)
Choose your city. Key criteria: community, housing budget, schools, job proximity. Popular cities: Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Ra'anana, Netanya.
Start Hebrew. Even basic level helps. Free Ulpan available after arrival (5 months intensive).
Phase 3 — Administrative (D-6 to D-3)
Visit the Israeli Consulate for Aliyah visa. Organize moving: sea freight (6-8 weeks, ~$3,000-6,000 for 20m³) or air freight.
Phase 4 — Departure (D-3 to Day 0)
Aliyah flight: covered by Jewish Agency. At Ben Gurion: receive Teudat Oleh, first Sal Klita payment in cash, Israeli SIM card.
Phase 5 — Settlement (Month 1-6)
Open bank account. Register with Kupat Holim (health fund). Register with Bituah Leumi (National Insurance). Start Ulpan.
Phase 6 — Integration (Month 6-12+)
Job search: AllJobs.co.il, LinkedIn, Nefesh B'Nefesh job board. Olim benefit from Nekoudot Zikoui tax credits: 235 NIS/point/month for up to 42 months.