Visas, residence permits and citizenship in Israel

Visa-waiver programme

There is visa-waiver programme for US and EU citizens as well as other nationalities travelling to Israel for up to 90 days. In order to enter you must present your passport, insurance policy and proof of financial subsistence.

Residence permits

Residence permits are granted under the “Law of Return”, giving individuals descending from Jewish mothers and converted to Judaism the right to repatriation. Non-Jewish citizens of other countries can get a residence permit if they are married to or parents of Israeli citizens. Representatives of certain religious organisations, holders of work visas and, by exception, refugees can also obtain a residence permit. Buying property or investing in Israel does not give access to residence rights.

Permanent residence

Children under the age of 18 and of Jewish parentage entering the country with repatriating parents are automatically given permanent residence. Permanent residence rights can be revoked if the holder lives outside of Israel for seven years or more.

Citizenship

Citizenship can be obtained through birth, adoption or naturalisation. For the latter, the applicant must have lived in Israel for a total of three years (out of five) and have permanent residence rights. State authorities can grant citizenship for exceptional services to the nation, such as scientific or cultural achievements.

Residence permit in other countries:

UAE residence permit: processing time and fees in 2024

Turkey Residence Permit: types and application

Greece residence permit for non-EU citizens