The State of Israel views immigration as a Zionist value of the highest order, and therefore provides you, the new immigrants, with a wide range of government incentives. Whether you have chosen to return to your homeland or start a new chapter in your life, it is important to know that the State of Israel stands by you and provides you with an economic and social safety net.
These incentives are designed to help you integrate successfully in Israel and ensure a good start and a fulfilling life. Government assistance includes grants and benefits in the areas of housing, education and employment, health, taxation, and more. The purpose of the incentives is to ease your transition, help you acclimate quickly, and provide you with tools for optimal integration into Israeli society.
How Can Government Assistance Be Obtained in the Field of Housing?
One of the most significant expenses in Israel is housing, and therefore the state offers several assistance options for new immigrants, in order to ease your burden during the initial period and ensure shelter:
- Rent Assistance: The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration assists with rent payments for a limited period (up to 5 years), according to various criteria such as seniority in the country, family status, family size, and income. The amount of assistance may be higher in national priority areas such as the Negev and the Galilee, as part of a government policy to encourage settlement in the periphery. To receive assistance, you must register with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration and present the required documents.
- Public Housing: New immigrants without housing, who meet the eligibility conditions of the Ministry of Construction and Housing, can receive subsidized public housing for a limited period (up to 15 years). These are apartments owned by the state or public housing companies, which are rented at a rent significantly lower than market prices. Eligibility for public housing is examined based on socio-economic criteria.
- Mortgage: New immigrants are entitled to a mortgage on preferential terms, for a period of up to 7 years. Preferential mortgage terms may include a lower interest rate, a longer repayment period, or assistance with equity. It is recommended to check eligibility with the various banks and inquire about the specific conditions.
- Tax and Property Tax Discounts: Benefits such as a discount on property tax (up to 90% in the first year) and a discount on purchase tax are given to new immigrants in the initial period, in order to ease the expenses associated with purchasing or renting an apartment.
What Educational Opportunities Are Open to New Immigrants in Israel?
The State of Israel encourages education, and therefore offers a variety of benefits in the field of education for new immigrants, from language studies to higher education:
- Hebrew Language Ulpans: Full funding for Hebrew studies in an Ulpan, including tuition, living expenses, and even participation in travel expenses. There are also dedicated Ulpans for learning professional Hebrew, tailored to the needs of specific professions. Hebrew studies help immigrants acquire the language needed for integration into society and employment.
- Funding for Higher Education: Assistance with tuition fees for bachelor's and master's degrees, diploma studies, and practical engineering studies in recognized higher education institutions. Immigrant students are also eligible for additional scholarships from various institutions and foundations.
- Assistance for Students: Assistance in financing daycares and family daycares, tutoring for immigrant students, and accommodations in matriculation exams (for example, extra time or language adaptations). In addition, immigrant students are entitled to personal tutoring hours and assistance with homework preparation.
How Does the Government Help New Immigrants Integrate into the Israeli Labor Market?
Finding a job is an important step for successful integration in Israel. The government offers a number of assistance programs in the field of employment, aimed at helping immigrants acquire the necessary skills and integrate into the labor market:
- Training and Vocational Retraining Courses: These courses help immigrants acquire new skills or adapt their skills to the requirements of the Israeli market. The courses are offered in a variety of fields, and courses can also be found in different languages.
- Employment Counseling and Guidance Services: Assistance in finding a job, writing a resume, and preparing for job interviews. These services are provided by experienced employment counselors who are familiar with the Israeli labor market.
- Assistance in Establishing an Independent Business: Business support, consulting, assistance in preparing a business plan, and assistance in raising funding for small businesses.
- Employment Placement Centers: These centers specialize in placing new immigrants in relevant jobs. The centers maintain contacts with various employers and help immigrants find work that matches their skills and experience.
- Recognition of Certificates: Assistance in the process of recognizing professional certificates acquired abroad. Recognition of certificates may require completion of tests or courses.
How Can You Realize the Rights and Benefits You Are Entitled to as New Immigrants?
The State of Israel offers a wide range of government incentives aimed at helping new immigrants integrate successfully into Israeli society. In order to realize your rights and enjoy the benefits you are entitled to, it is recommended to visit the website of the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, contact integration counselors, and check eligibility for the various programs. Remember, successful integration is a joint task of you and the state, and we are here to assist you at every stage.
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