🇺🇸 🇬🇧 USA & UK to Israel
Making Aliyah from the USA & UK in 2026
In 2024, over 3,500 North Americans and 700 British Jews moved to Israel. Nefesh B'Nefesh handles the whole process -- from paperwork to a free flight.
By the numbers
2024 data -- Nefesh B'Nefesh, Jewish Agency
3,500+
North American Olim in 2024
USA + Canada
+40%
Growth since Oct 7, 2023
Fastest in a decade
100+
Anglo communities in Israel
Ra'anana, Modi'in, Efrat...
What's unique for US & UK Olim
Key differences vs Aliyah from other countries
Free Aliyah flight via Nefesh B'Nefesh
NBN organizes free El Al group flights from the USA, Canada and UK -- a benefit not available to Olim from most other countries. Register early, spots fill months in advance.
Dedicated case worker -- full-service support
Nefesh B'Nefesh assigns you a personal case worker who guides every step: visa, flight, arrival, and first months. Olim from other countries go through the Sochnut without this individual follow-up.
US tax obligations follow you to Israel
The US taxes citizens on worldwide income regardless of residency. You must file annually with the IRS. The FEIE (~$132,900/yr for 2026) and US-Israel tax treaty prevent most double taxation -- but only if you actively claim them. Consult a dual-licensed CPA before you move.
100+ established Anglo communities
Ra'anana, Modi'in, Efrat, Beit Shemesh and Jerusalem have large, organized English-speaking communities -- Anglo shuls, English-language services and tight social networks from day one.
Full dual citizenship -- no renunciation required
Both the US and UK allow full dual citizenship with Israel. You keep your original passport permanently alongside your Israeli one. No renunciation required.
Official links
OlimAid is a general information source, updated regularly but not exhaustive. Aliyah law and US tax rules can change, and every personal situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis: check with Nefesh B'Nefesh, the Jewish Agency, or a dual-licensed CPA before making any decision.
USA / UK vs other English-speaking countries
| Feature | USA / Canada | UK | Australia / S. Africa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nefesh B'Nefesh support | Full service | Full service | Limited |
| Free Aliyah flight | Yes | Yes | No |
| Tax treaty with Israel | Yes | Yes | Partial |
| Processing time | 2-4 months | 2-4 months | 3-6 months |
| Anglo communities in Israel | Very large | Large | Growing |
Common questions
- Does Nefesh B'Nefesh pay for my flight?
- Yes -- NBN provides free El Al group Aliyah flights from the USA, Canada and UK. You must be approved and registered before booking. Flights operate mainly in spring and summer.
- Do I still owe US taxes after Aliyah?
- Yes. The US taxes citizens on worldwide income regardless of residence. The US-Israel Tax Treaty and the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE, ~$132,900/year for 2026) prevent most double taxation -- but you must claim them. Consult a dual-licensed CPA before you move.
- Can I keep my US or UK citizenship?
- Yes. Israel allows full dual citizenship. You keep your US, UK or Canadian passport permanently alongside your new Israeli one.
- Are US or UK degrees recognized in Israel?
- Generally yes, especially in hi-tech. Medicine and law often require an equivalency process with the relevant Israeli ministry. Contact the professional council for your field.
- What are the best cities for English-speaking Olim?
- Ra'anana has the largest Anglo community. Modi'in and Efrat are popular with families. Jerusalem (Katamon, Rehavia) and Tel Aviv attract professionals. Your choice depends on lifestyle, budget and work location.
OlimAid tools for your integration
Free, in English, built for new Olim