For many individuals in the Jewish diaspora worldwide, the realization of making aliyah to Israel is a deeply cherished aspiration. Israel was established to provide a secure homeland where Jewish people could freely practice their religion and uphold their cherished traditions.
To facilitate this journey, the state of Israel implemented the Law of Return in 1950, which enabled individuals of Jewish descent to become citizens of Israel. Those who embark on the aliyah process are entitled to various benefits, ensuring a seamless transition into their new homeland.
In this article, we will explore the diverse advantages of aliyah, the eligibility criteria for making aliyah, and delve into the intricacies of the process itself. Our law firm specializes in immigration procedures in Israel, including aliyah, and we are readily available to offer expert legal guidance.
What is the law of return?
Establishing the law of return aimed to offer individuals of Jewish ancestry the opportunity to immigrate to Israel, acquire citizenship, and establish residency. Enacted by the Israeli Knesset in 1950, the law has undergone subsequent amendments to clarify its provisions.
According to the law of return, any individual of Jewish heritage has the right to come to Israel and obtain citizenship. However, the question arises regarding how one’s Jewish identity is determined. An amendment introduced in 1970 establishes that a person is considered Jewish if they are born to a Jewish mother and do not practice any other religion. Moreover, individuals who are not Jewish themselves but have Jewish parents or grandparents are also eligible to pursue aliyah. Additionally, the spouses and minor children those eligible to make Aliyah are granted the opportunity to make aliyah and join their partners in Israel.
What benefits are granted to those who make aliyah?
To incentivize Jews worldwide to relocate to Israel, various benefits are provided to those who make aliyah.
One of the primary advantages granted to the new Olim is the absorption basket, commonly known as the “Sal Klita.” This package encompasses several financial aids. For instance, individuals who make aliyah receive a stipend to assist with rental expenses during their initial year in Israel. Another benefit entails a complimentary six-month Hebrew language course. New Olim is also provided with a free ticket to their new home in Israel. It’s important to note that the absorption basket is only accessible within the first year from the date of making aliyah.
Individuals with disabilities, pensioners, pregnant women, and single-parent families are eligible for additional financial assistance. Students making aliyah may also receive partial tuition coverage for their first and second degrees.
Furthermore, potential employment-related benefits include professional courses and a guaranteed minimum income.
How to make aliyah?
Having established the eligible individuals and the benefits associated with aliyah, it is time to comprehend the procedure involved.
There are two primary methods for Jewish individuals to undertake aliyah. The initial option involves entering Israel as a tourist and submitting a request to make aliyah while already within the country. The second option entails contacting the Israeli consulate or the local branch of The Jewish Agency for Israel in one’s current country of residence, where they will assist.
For individuals presently tourists in Israel, the aliyah process necessitates submitting a request to the Ministry of Interior. During the meeting, it is imperative to present appropriate documentation verifying one’s Jewish heritage. The documents must be translated and notarized to be received and approved. In this case, seeking guidance from a lawyer specializing in aliyah procedures is advisable to ensure a smooth process.
What difficulties may arise when requesting to make aliyah?
The request process for aliyah is a relatively smooth for most when providing the right documents. However, some applicants may face difficulties or even a refusal.
For example, the Law of Return does state that every Jewish person may come and reside in Israel. However, those with a criminal record, which may pose a threat to the Israeli public, have a great chance of getting denied. In this case, there will be a need to file an official appeal to try and prove that the person interested in making aliyah is not a threat to society by any means.
Of course, in cases in which the state of Israel does not find the documents proving the Jewish heritage of a requester to be enough proof, another difficulty may arise. That is why it is strongly advised to prepare the request with the help of a law firm specializing in this matter.
What about the spouses of Jewish people?
If a Jew wishes to make aliyah, but their spouse is not Jewish, the spouse can become a citizen of Israel by the Law of Return. It is important to note that the couple must be married.
This right has certain limitations and regulations. For example, if a couple got married less than a year before making aliyah, they will be required to prove the veracity of their marriage. This demand is to prevent aliyah from those who got married solely to get Israeli citizenship.
Making aliyah the right way
As you can see from this article, making aliyah can bring many opportunities and benefits for those who choose to do it. That is not to say that this process does not bring challenges with it. Getting used to living in a new country with a different culture may take some time and require adjustments. Even so, the benefits granted to the Olim are there to ensure the smoothest integration possible, and they have certainly helped countless Olim to get used to their new life in Israel more comfortably.
If you are interested in immigrating to Israel, getting professional legal guidance is the best way to ensure a positive and smooth process. Our offices, located in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, specialize in assisting those of Jewish descent and their families to do aliyah with ease. We invite you to reach out to us, and we will be happy to assist you through this exciting journey.
