Why does Israel attract immigrants from all over the world?

Immigration to Israel

Israel stands out as one of the most desirable countries for people wishing to relocate. Based on OECD data, approximately 25% of its population is made up of individuals born outside its borders. Currently, the total number of migrants in Israel has exceeded two million.

Migration trends

Since 2014, there has been a steady upward trend in the number of people choosing Israel for long-term residence, except for a sharp drop in 2020, which was caused by the global pandemic. As of 2021, the number of arrivals totaled 27,000, and in just the first five months of 2022, 21,000 new immigrants have already moved into the country. It is predicted that 2022 will be a record year in terms of migration.

Financing migration

More than 80% of new residents of Israel come to the country under the repatriation program. The second largest group of migrants includes people who came for employment.

Origin of migrants

As of 2020, almost half of Israelis born outside the state originated from the post-Soviet countries, and in particular, the majority are from Russia and Ukraine (approximately 49%). In second place are immigrants from Morocco (7%), and in third place are immigrants from the United States (6%).

Visa requirements

As for visa requirements, citizens of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus can stay in Israel without a visa for 90 days within a 180-day period. For visa-free entry, you need to prepare a package of documents:

• A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry;
• Airline tickets confirming return departure from the country within 90 days;
• A voucher to stay in Israel, which can be either a hotel reservation or an invitation from friends;
• Medical certificate if the purpose of the visit is medical treatment;
• Health insurance for medical services abroad;
• Confirmation of funding availability.

Peculiarities of visa regime for other countries

Citizens of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will need a visa to visit Israel. The list of documents required to obtain a visa can be found on the official websites of the Embassy of Israel in these states.

Buying real estate and visa requirements

It is important to note that purchasing real estate in Israel does not exempt you from visa regulations. However, citizens of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus can repeatedly travel to the country to visit their property without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day cycle.

Special visas for long-term stays

In addition, a long stay in Israel requires the issuance of special visas, which are analogous to a residence permit. These visas are required for anyone who intends to stay in the country for more than 90 days.

Additional information

There are several categories of visas, each of which is determined by the purpose of your arrival. If you are interested in the process of buying real estate in Israel or questions related to investment and immigration, you can subscribe to special Telegram channels dedicated to these topics.

Types of visas to stay in Israel

Student visas, clergy visas, family visas and work visas are different categories of permits that allow you to stay in Israel. To find out what documents are required to apply for a long-term visa, it is recommended to visit the official resource of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On the same site you can also find useful stories about migration and employment in Israel that can serve as a source of information and inspiration.

Regulation of permanent residence

Permanent residency is a serious topic, and the rules for obtaining it in Israel are regulated by several laws. The most significant of these is the Law of Return, enacted in 1950, which establishes the conditions for the repatriation of Jews. There is also the Entry into Israel Law, enacted in 1952, which defines the rules for foreign nationals, and the Foreign Workers Law, introduced in 1991, which regulates migrant labor.

Permanent resident status

The aforementioned laws discuss the possibility of obtaining permanent residency status in Israel on the basis of a long-term visa. However, according to legal experts, in reality, this is a rather difficult task. When the work visa expires, the foreigner must leave the country, as the issuance of these visas is strictly controlled by the Israeli authorities, who closely monitor compliance with migration regulations. Similar difficulties are characteristic of study visas: although Israel actively offers educational programs, countries are not interested in the possibility of students remaining for permanent residence.

Family reunification

The process associated with family reunification has its own peculiarities and can take a considerable amount of time - up to five years. It consists of several stages:

• Obtaining temporary status;
• Obtaining permanent status;
• Completion of the process by obtaining citizenship.

However, this requires the spouse to be an Israeli citizen.

Repatriation as a pathway to citizenship

The most accessible route to permanent residency is repatriation, which presupposes Jewish roots.Repatriates are eligible for Israeli citizenship from the moment they move to the country.

How to become a repatriate?

Certain groups of foreigners can obtain Israeli citizenship.

Repatriation of underage citizens

Minor citizens who may be categorized as repatriates are teenagers who have a connection to Israel, whose childhood was spent in the land, but who were forced to leave the country due to their parents' decision before reaching the age of 14. If they decide to return to Israel and establish permanent residency upon reaching the age of 17, they may apply for repatriation, provided that their stay outside the country lasted at least four years.

Groups of persons eligible for repatriation

In addition, various groups of people are also open to return to their historical homeland. In particular, these include:

• Children and grandchildren of Jews;
• Spouses and widows/widowers of Jewish citizens;
• Adopted children of Jewish citizens.

It should be noted that even grandchildren of Jewish citizens can repatriate if they were adopted by non-Jewish people. It is very important to make sure that you have all the necessary documents to prove that you are a Jewish citizen before beginning all the proceduresJewish origin.

First step towards repatriation

Those who want to return to their homeland should first of all visit theJewish Agency for Israel (Sokhnut). This institution provides support to anyone planning to emigrate back to Israel. You should then make an appointment for counseling at the Israeli consulate in your country to avoid possible delays.

Preparation of documents for a visit to the consulate

Preparing a visit to the consulate requires gathering an important set of documents. Before the appointment, you should gather all necessary proof of your Jewish roots, such as:

• Rabbinical certificates;
• Documents from the beit din;
• Certificates issued by the local civil registry offices;
• Archival documents and other supporting papers.

Be sure to also prepare paperwork proving your current citizenship status, including certificates of:

• Birth;
• Marriage;
• Divorce;
• Death of a spouse.

Keep in mind that documents issued after 1988 must be apostilled and possibly translated into Hebrew.

Necessary documents for repatriation

Important documents include your national passports, in addition to any other foreign papers that prove your stay both in Israel and abroad. Such documents may include:

• Educational credentials;
• Official letters from tax authorities of other countries;
• Documents from social services.

It is also important to prepare a list of all trips to Israel with their duration and add a medical certificate.

Further information on repatriation

More information about the repatriation process and current requirements can be found on the website of the Jewish Agency for Israel. If the repatriatee's visa has been arranged in advance, the possibility of obtaining Israeli citizenship can be settled right upon arrival at the airport. Parents planning to repatriate with children should familiarize themselves with all the requirements in detail and prepare the necessary documents well in advance.

In conclusion, Israel is becoming an increasingly attractive country for immigrants, as evidenced by the steady increase in the number of people wishing to start a new life in this unique country. I observe how, despite the deadlines and difficulties, thousands of people from different parts of the world come to Israel every year, hoping for a better life and new opportunities.

Repatriation process

The repatriation process, which allows many Jewish families to return to their roots, continues to be central to the increase in the number of immigrants. This program is not just a legal formality, but a chance for people to reconnect with their ancestral homeland and culture. I clarify how important it is to realize that relocation is a huge step, requiring advance preparation and gathering the necessary documents, whether for a visa or permanent residency status.

Challenges and opportunities

The difficulties faced by new immigrants are justified in light of the strict controls imposed by the Israeli authorities. However, despite the obstacles, many find their place in society, build their careers and work to integrate into their new surroundings. I see that with the right resources and the will to adapt, even difficult situations can be turned into success stories.

Result

To summarize, I want to emphasize that moving to Israel is not just a matter of formalities and visas, it is a huge opportunity for personal and professional growth, opening up new horizons and prospects. Israel awaits those who are able to contribute to its diverse society. The inspiring stories of returnees and new settlers show that despite the challenges, everyone can find their place in the sun in this land. I hope that my article will help those considering relocation to realize that their dreams can become a reality.