Immigrate to Israel

Under the Israeli immigration system, there are several visa routes catering for a range of circumstances, including temporary residence, study, clergy, dependant family members, work, and visit. It is essential that applicants choose the correct route for their needs and whether it is possible to achieve their long-term goals (i.e. permanent residence).

What is Aliya and the Law of Return?

The Israeli Law of Return provides the right for Jewish people from around the world to immigrate to Israel. It is “an expression of the connection between the Jewish people and their homeland”. Under this policy:

1. Every Jew has the right to travel to Israel as an ‘Oleh [someone who is entitled to immigrate].

2. (a) Aliyah [right to return] shall be by oleh’s visa. (b) An oleh’s visa shall be granted to every Jew who has expressed his desire to settle in Israel, unless the Minister of Immigration is satisfied that the applicant:

(1) is engaged in an activity directed against the Jewish people; or

(2) is likely to endanger public health or the security of the State.

Once a Jewish person has made aliyah (i.e. immigrated to Israel), eligible individuals receive an ‘Oleh visa’ allowing them to remain in the country.

Given the Law of Return, Israel heavily restricts the ability of overseas nationals who are not Jewish to gain settlement in the country. It is, however, possible for non-Israeli family members of Israeli citizens to gain long-term residence status in Israel, including spouses/partners, children, and grandchildren, if they themselves are not Jewish.

What Types Of Visas Are Available In Israel?

The following lists the types of visas that are available in Israel:

A/1 Temporary Resident Visa

Israel’s A/1 Temporary Resident visa is intended specifically for those who wish to immigrate to Israel in accordance with the Law of Return. As such, this visa is only available to those who are eligible for aliya and have had their application approved by a diplomatic/consular representative at an Israeli mission.

A/2 Student Visa

Israel’s A/2 student visa is designed for overseas nationals who wish to study at an elementary and high school, academic institutions, yeshivot, and youth institution of the Jewish Agency in Israel. The A/2 visa is typically granted for up to 12 months and enables holders to leave and return without restriction during that time. The A/2 student visa does not normally allow holders to work while studying in Israel.

A/3 Clergy Visa

The A/3 Clergy visa in Israel grants permission for clergymen to enter and carry out their clerical duties among their religious communities in Israel. In order to be granted an A/3 Clergy visa, applicants must first be invited by a recognised religious institution in Israel.

In order to gain an A/3 Clergy visa, applications must be submitted in Israel by the inviting religious institution. Applications are then assessed and approved by the Ministry of the Interior in Israel before a visa can be acquired.

A/4 Visa

Israel’s A/4 visas are granted to the spouses and children of recipients of A/2 or A/3 visas (as outlined above).

B/1 Work Visa

B/1 work visas in Israel are specifically for foreign nationals who wish to work in Israel for a limited period of time. The scheme is open to specialist and artists in their respective field, and applications can only be approved by the Ministry of the Interior.

The B/1 Work Visa route has several categories, including:

• Specialist workers in academic fields
• Specialist workers in non-academic Fields
• Specialists with a certificate of education at an academic institution of higher education or relevant vocational training who wish to stay in Israel for up to 90 days
• High Tech Work Visa (HIT) - for foreign nationals with high-tech and cyber expertise
• Short Employment Authorisation (SEA) – allows short-term work in Israel for up to 45 days.

B/2 Visitor’s Visa

The Israeli B/2 visa is intended for foreign nationals who want to spend a short time in Israel, including as a visitor, tourist, and business person attending a meeting or conference. B/2 Visitor visas do not allow holders to work in Israel.

B/2 visas are only granted for up to three months, however, it may be possible to extend this for a longer period in certain circumstances.

Why Choose An Immigration Lawyer To Assist With Your Israel Visa?

The Israeli immigration system offers somewhat limited options, especially when it comes to long-term and permanent immigration. Using the services of an immigration lawyer with expertise in Israeli immigration law will ensure that from the outset, you are on the best pathway towards achieving your long-term goals. Securing the services of an immigration solicitor will provide you with considerable peace of mind that your matter is in the best possible hands, and you have the very best chance of receiving a positive decision on your application. In addition, because your immigration lawyer will be handling the end-to-end process on your behalf, you can focus on what is most important; your family and your work. An immigration lawyer will:

• Explain your options properly to help your decision-making easy for you
• Ensure that your application and supporting documents are complete prior to submission (we have a robust quality assurance process to ensure this is always the case). We will often ‘front-load’ applications to ensure that every detail and piece of evidence is needed to satisfy the requirements of the case officer handling your application.
• Deal with the immigration authorities directly on your behalf.

How We Can Help

Reiss Edwards’ specialist team of immigration solicitors has a comprehensive understanding of the processes, procedures, and rules of the global mobility and immigration pathways in each jurisdiction in which we operate. We are ready to help make your immigration easy and swift. For further information, enquiries, and assistance, contact us today on 020 3744 2797 or email us at info@reissedwards.co.uk