Moving to Israel? Here’s Everything You Need to Know (2024)

If you are wondering how to move in Israel, we have you covered with everything you will need from finding housing, setting up utilities, and more. But how hard is it to settle in Israel? For foreigners, actually, it can be extremely difficult unless you are Jewish and plan to immigrate permanently, or you are marrying an Israeli national. Otherwise, residency is not typically granted to foreigners unless you are coming for work. In this case, you will be granted a temporary residence permit (the B/1 work visa).

If you do manage to find a way to stay in the country permanently, we let you know why putting down roots in Israel is a good idea. There are many benefits of living in Israel, especially if you are a young entrepreneur, self-employed, or an investor. For example, did you know that Israel is nicknamed the Start Up Nation of the world? It is the perfect place to start a business, should you have sufficient funds and the business savvy to do so. Other things to know when going to Israel is what to pack. Ladies will want to be extra mindful to pack modest clothing for the numerous religious sites found around the country.

All You Need to Know About Relocating Your Household Goods and Pets

The process of moving to Israel can be complex, but with the help of this section, your expat adventure will get started in the best possible way. We have you covered with information on storing your household goods as well as the health requirements for Israel. For example, while there are no vaccinations required for Israel, some are recommended, such as the shots for hepatitis A and B. If you require a work visa, you will be subject to a medical exam which includes a blood test and normal test results for AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis.

Moving and shipping your household goods to Israel is possible via ship or air. Keep in mind that customs allows you to bring your household items in up to a total of three shipments. Shipments must arrive within three years of your date of entry. You will want to keep a detailed list for customs of everything you are bringing into the country, along with receipts.

Female expats will want to think carefully about the items of clothing they pack and bring into the Middle Eastern country. They need outfits that cover their legs, neck, and shoulders for certain religious sites in the Holy Land.

If you are moving to Israel with pets, make sure that they are microchipped, vaccinated, and have their health certificates. For puppies or kittens, they will need to be at least four months old (and vaccinated) to enter the country. If they are coming from Oceania, Britain, Japan, or Cyprus, they can enter Israel at three months but must be vaccinated within five days of entry. Bear in mind that certain dog breeds will require permission to enter the country.

Read our complete guide on relocating to Israel

The Guide to Visa Types and Work Permit Requirements

If you are wondering how to get an Israeli visa, you will first need a valid reason for relocating to the country such as for work, studies, or if you are planning to move there permanently. For professional expats, we cover the B/1 work visa in this section and Israel’s visa types under this category. Israel’s visa requirements for the B/1 work visa will typically include passing a medical exam and approval from the Ministry of Interior, depending on your line of work.

Israel’s visa application processing time will also vary depending on your job type. Keep in mind it can take up to as long as three months. Be aware that Israel’s visa costs include a submission fee of 1,190 ILS (337 USD).

Everything You Need to Know About Finding a New Home

Accommodation in Israel can be found using online portals, newspapers, word of mouth, or real estate agents. Types of houses include duplexes, medurags, or apartments, which is the most common type of housing in Israel. If you are asking yourself how to rent a house in Israel, it is most advisable to wait until you are actually in the country. This way you have the opportunity to visit places in person. Rental contracts in Israel are usually for a full year, but this can be negotiated with the landlord. The average rent in Tel Aviv for a three-bedroom apartment is 5,500 ILS (1,551 USD).

If you are wondering how to buy a house in Israel as a foreigner, know that you can do so. You will, however, be required to pay a purchase tax, which is usually higher for non-residents. Average house prices in the Middle Eastern country range depending on the home and city in which you choose to settle. The most expensive city is Tel Aviv with an approximate cost for a home being 2,176,700 ILS (617,780 USD).

Once you have settled into your new home in the Middle Eastern country, utilities in Israel are simple enough to set up. To set up gas, electricity, or water you will usually need your lease, credit card information, and ID.

Read our complete guide on housing in Israel

Health Insurance and the Healthcare System of Israel Explained

The healthcare system and health insurance in Israel offer high-quality service to its patients. Israel’s healthcare system is universal and mandatory for Israelis to join one of the four not-for-profit health funds. Contrarily, supplementary and private health insurance is optional. They cover medicines not covered under the public scheme and a more extensive range of surgeries, therapies, and more. In comparison to other countries, private health insurance here is relatively inexpensive.

The Ministry of Health makes it easy if you are wondering how to find a doctor in the country. They offer a database of licensed doctors in the country including therapists, dentists, and other medical professionals.

Giving birth in Israel as a non-resident entitles your child to some benefits. This can include certain health, social, and educational allowances for your child. Keep in mind, however, that the only way your child can get citizenship is if at least one parent is Israeli.