How to Get Israeli Citizenship

Israeli citizenship can be obtained through several legal pathways. The easiest one is the Law of Return, which grants Jews, their children, grandchildren, and spouses the right to immigrate and become citizens. Other options include birthright citizenship for those born to Israeli parents, naturalization, and special grants for exceptional cases.
The process involves submitting documentation, fulfilling residency requirements, and attending an interview with a consul. In this article, you’ll find a detailed guide on how to apply for Israeli citizenship.

Ways to Obtain Israeli Citizenship

The Law of Return is the foundation of Israel’s immigration policy, which allows any Jew, children, and grandchildren of Jews apply for citizenship. Living in Israel is not required. The main condition is having the necessary documents to pass the consular verification. If approved, the applicant can travel to Israel to receive official status.

Note! Great-grandchildren of Jews are not eligible for citizenship. However, they can obtain permanent residence upon reaching adulthood and apply for citizenship after 3 years of living in Israel.

Non-Jews can also become Israeli citizens through the following methods:

Conversion (Giyur). A religious process that requires converting to Judaism. It includes studying Jewish principles, observing religious rituals, and circumcision for men. A final interview with the Rabbinate is required. If successful, the applicant undergoes a purification ritual and receives an official document for citizenship application.

Naturalization. This option is for people without Jewish roots. The requirements include living in Israel for 3-5 years (with only short trips abroad allowed), basic knowledge of Hebrew, holding permanent residency, renouncing previous citizenship, and having official employment in Israel.

Family ties. Suitable for residents with relatives who are Israeli citizens or permanent residents. The process is easier for those with direct relatives (parents, children, or spouses), but even having cousins may help.

Marriage. Marriage to an Israeli citizen does not automatically grant citizenship. The applicant must live in Israel for at least five years, spending over 75% of the time in the country. Documents like rental agreements and utility bills proving shared life are required. Annual interviews are conducted to confirm the marriage’s legitimacy. Widows/widowers of Israeli citizens or Jewish children and grandchildren (who have not remarried a non-Jew) can also apply for a passport.

By birth. A child automatically becomes an Israeli citizen if at least one parent is an Israeli citizen. However, children born in Israel to foreign parents do not receive citizenship.

Special Grants. If a person has made significant contributions to Israel in medicine, sports, or politics, they may receive citizenship as a special honor.

How to Apply for Israeli Citizenship

The Israeli citizenship application process involves multiple steps, including document submission, filling out the online application, and an interview with a consul.

Collect all required documents:

• A 3×4 color photo.
• A valid passport (international or internal).
• Birth, marriage, or family certificates (including those of parents and grandparents).
• Employment, military, union, or party records.
• Educational certificates.
• Information about relatives living in Israel (for those who apply through the Law of Return).
• A standard application form.
• A certificate of Hebrew proficiency.
• A receipt for the state fee payment.

Additional documents may be requested. The full list is available on the consulate website or from immigration advisors.

Note! Applicants must demonstrate Hebrew proficiency when applying at the Population and Immigration Authority. However, no specific language level is required.

Attend an Interview

After submitting the online application, the consul reviews the documents and may request an interview.

The consul evaluates the following:

1. Religious affiliation. Only Jews can obtain citizenship. While a secular lifestyle is allowed, changing religions leads to an automatic loss of residency status.
2. Criminal record. Israel does not officially ban former convicts from obtaining citizenship, but applicants must prove they are no threat to society.
3. Interview style. The consul conducts a formal interview, requiring clear and direct answers. Preparation is essential.

The final decision is made after the interview.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

If documents are in order and you answer all the questions honestly during the interview with the consul, the probability of approval is very high. However, reasons for denial include:

• Lack of proof of Jewish ancestry.
• The presence of an outstanding criminal record.
• Incorrect information provided.
• Submitting forged papers or certificates.

By law, Israel provides written explanations for citizenship denial. If an error occurs, applicants can appeal to a higher court.

Benefits of Israeli Citizenship

Israeli citizenship provides many advantages, such as:

1. High-quality healthcare. According to the Health Care Index, in 2024, Israel ranked 17th out of 94 countries in terms of healthcare quality. The country has some of the most skilled doctors, advanced medical techniques, and innovative equipment.
2. Economy. Israel ranks 20th out of 207 countries by Gross National Income as of 2024. The income per citizen exceeds $ 55,020 per year.
3. Education. According to Erudera, Israel is the 5th most educated country in the world. Schools are free for children, and university education is available with government subsidies.
4. Taxes and benefits. Immigrants don’t pay taxes on income earned abroad for 10 years. An Oleh (new immigrant) receives a discount of approximately 12% on purchasing a new car, valid for three years.
5. Visa-free travel. Israeli citizens can visit 161 countries without a visa, including EU nations. They can also apply for a 10-year U.S. visa.
6. Second citizenship. Israeli citizens are not required to give up their original passport. The exception applies to non-Jews undergoing the naturalization process.

Besides the benefits, there are certain responsibilities of being an Israeli citizen. Since Israel has no dual citizenship agreements with other countries, repatriates have to complete military service. Both men and women are subject to conscription. However, married men and women with at least 1 child are .

According to current regulations, within 180 days after moving to Israel, a new citizen receives an invocation. Within the next three weeks, they must appear at the recruitment office for registration. If nothing is received, it is best to visit the office personally.
Important! Repatriates get a 12-month postponement from military service.

Difference Between Darkon and Lesse-Passe

Both Darkon and Lesse-Passe are types of Israeli travel documents. Darkon is an international passport, while Lesse-Passe is more of a «travel document».

The validity of a Darkon (international passport) depends on how long you have lived in Israel:

• 1 year: If you have lived in Israel for only 3 to 12 months.
• 5 years: If you have resided for 1 to 5 years, spending at least 75% of that time in the country.
• 10 years: If you have been an Israeli citizen for 5+ years and have lived in Israel for at least 3 of them.

If you do not reside in Israel or visit the country, you may still be eligible for a Lesse-Passe (travel document). Thanks to international agreements between Israel and other countries, Lesse-Passe holders can enter certain countries without a visa. This document also allows you to conduct international business, open bank accounts, study, and access medical services abroad. It is issued based on Israeli citizenship.

Alternatives to Citizenship

For those who do not qualify for citizenship, residency permits offer another way to live and work in Israel.

Types of Residency Permits:

• Work Visa: Israel requires agricultural workers, cleaners, construction workers, factory employees, caregivers, and hotel staff.
• Student Visa: Israel offers high-quality education and globally recognized universities.
• Family Reunification Visa: This applies to spouses, children, and parents of Israeli citizens who cannot qualify under the Law of Return.
• Investor Visa: Foreign investors can obtain residency by starting a business or investing in Israeli enterprises and startups.

Differences Between Residency and Citizenship:

Experts of Astons do not provide Israeli citizenship services, but we can assist you in relocating to other countries, including Turkey, Egypt, Malta, and Grenada. We also help with residency applications for Hungary, the UAE, Spain, and more. Our specialists offer legal, financial, and organizational advice to maximize your chances of obtaining residency or citizenship abroad.

FAQ

What are the main requirements for obtaining Israeli citizenship?

The requirements depend on the path to citizenship. Under the Law of Return, applicants must prove Jewish ancestry. For naturalization, applicants must have lived in Israel for 3-5 years, hold permanent residency, have basic Hebrew knowledge, and renounce their previous citizenship. Other paths include conversion to Judaism, marriage, family ties, and special contributions.

Who is eligible under the Law of Return to become an Israeli citizen?

Jews, their children, grandchildren, and spouses are eligible for Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return. However, great-grandchildren of Jews do not qualify for citizenship but may obtain permanent residency.

How long does the process of applying for Israeli citizenship take?

The time frame varies depending on the citizenship type chosen. The Law of Return process can be completed relatively quickly if documents are in order. Naturalization typically requires 3-5 years of residence. Marriage-based applications take at least five years, with annual interviews.

Can you become an Israeli citizen without living in Israel?

Yes, under the Law of Return, applicants are not required to live in Israel before applying. However, they must provide documentation proving their Jewish ancestry and pass consular verification.

What documents are needed to apply for Israeli citizenship?

Documents required include:

• Passport and 3×4 photo.
• Birth, marriage, and family certificates.
• Proof of Jewish ancestry (for the Law of Return).
• Employment, military, and education records.
• Hebrew proficiency certificate (if required).
• Receipt of state fee payment.
• Additional documents as requested by authorities.

Is dual citizenship allowed with Israel?

No, Israel has no dual citizenship agreements with other countries. However, you are allowed to have second citizenship, including non-Jews undergoing naturalization, who have to renounce their first passport.

What are the common reasons for citizenship application rejection?

Applications may be rejected due to:

• Lack of proof of Jewish ancestry.
• The presence of an outstanding criminal record.
• Incorrect information provided.
• Submitting forged papers or certificates