Question 1

What should I do first when I arrive in Israel?

Accepted Answer

Top priority: get your biometric Teoudat Zehout at the Ministry of Interior, then open a bank account to receive your Sal Klita.

Question 2

Why is my bank blocking my transfer from France?

Accepted Answer

Anti-money laundering checks are very strict in 2026. You must provide a sale deed or French income statements before funds can leave France.

Question 3

Arnona discount for new Olim: how do I get it?

Accepted Answer

New Olim can receive up to 90% Arnona (municipal tax) discount in the first year. It is not automatic.

Question 4

Who pays for repairs in my apartment (plumbing, A/C)?

Accepted Answer

The landlord pays for structural wear (A/C, boiler, pipes). The tenant pays routine maintenance.

Question 5

How do I cancel a subscription (internet, gym)?

Accepted Answer

It can be complex. Use the Neta platform or send an official cancellation email so you keep legal proof.

Question 6

Do my work years in France count for retirement in Israel?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The France-Israel agreement lets you combine quarters to open rights with Bituah Leumi.

Question 7

Is Teoudat Oleh enough to live in Israel?

Accepted Answer

No. It opens rights, but it does not replace Teoudat Zehout for official procedures.

Question 8

Which Koupat Holim should I choose as an Oleh?

Accepted Answer

Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, Leumit. Base coverage is similar; check clinic proximity in your area.

Question 9

Can I switch Koupat Holim if I chose wrong?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can switch multiple times per year via the Post website or Bituah Leumi.

Question 10

Is registering with Bituah Leumi mandatory?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely for social rights, family allowances and health coverage.

Question 11

What are the real tax benefits for Olim?

Accepted Answer

Foreign income exemptions (10 years) and income tax credit points for 3.5 years.

Question 12

Can I work without speaking Hebrew?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially in high-tech or call centers, but Hebrew remains essential to grow.

Question 13

Is Ulpan mandatory?

Accepted Answer

No, but it is a free right. In 2026, vouchers can also fund private Ulpan.

Question 14

Can I rent an apartment without an Israeli bank account?

Accepted Answer

Almost impossible, because landlords usually require local guarantee checks.

Question 15

Do I need to register at city hall?

Accepted Answer

Yes, essential for Arnona, resident parking and school registration.

Question 16

How do I convert a foreign driving license?

Accepted Answer

If you have held it for 5 years, it is usually a simple online administrative process (Tofes Yarok).

Question 17

Is healthcare really free?

Accepted Answer

Basic care is covered, but complementary insurance (Gold/Mushlam) is strongly recommended.

Question 18

Do I have to declare foreign bank accounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Israel applies worldwide income and assets reporting.

Question 19

Can I buy a car with tax benefits?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can pay reduced taxes when buying a new vehicle within 3 years after Aliyah.

Question 20

Are there electricity aids?

Accepted Answer

Yes, based on income criteria or for large families via Hevrat Hachmal.

Question 21

What is Keren Hishtalmut?

Accepted Answer

A savings fund (7.5% employer / 2.5% employee) tax-exempt after 6 years.

Question 22

How do I register my child for Gan (kindergarten)?

Accepted Answer

Online on your municipality website (Iriya), usually between January and February.

Question 23

Is my child entitled to school support?

Accepted Answer

Yes, schools offer Shaot Oleh (support hours) for new arrivals.

Question 24

What is Osek Patur for freelancers?

Accepted Answer

It is a self-employed status exempt from VAT up to a turnover threshold.

Question 25

How does the Rav-Kav card work?

Accepted Answer

It is the unified transport card. Recharge via smartphone or kiosks.

Question 26

Can I keep my French phone number?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but an Israeli number is essential for administration and local apps.

Question 27

Where should I translate my official documents?

Accepted Answer

Use certified notary translators so documents are accepted by Misrad HaPnim.

Question 28

How long is military service in Israel?

Accepted Answer

It depends on age at arrival. Olim arriving after age 22 are usually exempt.

Question 29

How can I order on Amazon without customs fees?

Accepted Answer

In Israel, orders under $75 are fully tax-exempt.

Question 30

How long does it take to receive the first Sal Klita payment?

Accepted Answer

The first payment usually arrives shortly after your Israeli bank account is opened, then follow-up payments are sent according to the official Ministry of Integration schedule.

Question 31

Which documents should a new Oleh prepare to rent in Israel?

Accepted Answer

Prepare Teoudat Zehout (or Teoudat Oleh), income proof, guarantor details if requested, and an Israeli checkbook for guarantees.

Question 32

How can I get a Misrad HaPnim appointment faster?

Accepted Answer

Slots open and disappear quickly. Check MyVisit often and include nearby cities in your search.

Question 33

I do not rent a home in Israel yet and I am staying with friends. How can I get my Teoudat Zehout?

Accepted Answer

You can usually start the process with a temporary hosting address. Bring a signed hosting letter, a copy of your host's Teoudat Zehout, and a proof of address (Arnona/utility bill).

Question 34

If I still live abroad and do not have Israeli citizenship yet, can I open a bank account in Israel?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is sometimes possible through a lawyer acting under a notarized power of attorney, especially under a non-resident setup. Final approval still depends on each bank's KYC/AML checks and enhanced documents (source of funds, address, tax status). You can also contact OlimAid to get a lawyer contact for this process, or check the Directory page.

Question 35

What should I do if I receive a transport or parking fine I do not understand?

Accepted Answer

Never ignore it. Check the deadline, get it translated, then pay or appeal using the official process listed on the notice. If needed, use AI Scan to understand the letter instantly.

Question 36

How can I find a first job in Israel without a local network?

Accepted Answer

Start with an English LinkedIn profile, Olim job groups, networking events, and targeted applications with an Israeli-format CV.

Question 37

Which administrative mistakes cost new Olim the most money?

Accepted Answer

Missing deadlines (Arnona, Bituah Leumi, license conversion), ignoring official letters, and signing contracts without review.

Question 38

What is the #1 mistake Olim make on arrival?

Accepted Answer

Not opening administrative mail. Appeal deadlines in Israel are very short.

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