All you need to know

Young woman with curly hair wearing sunglasses and a yellow floral dress walking outside in warm sunlight, with other women and people in the background on a lively street.

Thinking of Aliyah? Start here!

What is Aliyah?

Aliyah — Hebrew for “ascent” — is the act of Jewish immigration to Israel. More than just moving to a new country, Aliyah is a return to the ancestral homeland, a journey deeply rooted in Jewish history, faith, and identity.

For many, making Aliyah is a powerful step toward belonging — spiritually, culturally, and nationally. It’s about reconnecting with thousands of years of tradition, contributing to the future of the Jewish people, and building a life in a land where Jewish life, language, and holidays are part of everyday reality.

Whether motivated by faith, family, opportunity, or a sense of purpose, Aliyah is not just a relocation — it’s coming home.

Family gathered at a holiday dinner table, smiling and enjoying a meal with candles and food.

What is the law of return?

The Law of Return, enacted in 1950, gives every Jew the legal right to immigrate to Israel and become a citizen. It reflects the foundational idea that Israel is not just a country, but a homeland for all Jews — wherever they live.

Under this law, Jews, children and grandchildren of Jews, and their spouses are eligible to make Aliyah. It offers a safe haven for those fleeing persecution, and a path home for those seeking to live in a Jewish state.

The Law of Return is more than a legal right — it’s a promise. A promise that every Jew has a place in Israel, and that the doors of the Jewish homeland will always remain open.

A rustic house with a bright blue door, surrounded by lush trees with green and orange leaves, during sunset. Two women sit outside on chairs, one reading and the other looking away, with a small table between them.

What are the steps of the Aliyah Process?

Making Aliyah is a big step, but the process is clear and guided. It usually begins by opening a file with the Jewish Agency or your local Israeli consulate. You’ll provide documents to confirm your Jewish identity, family status, and background.

Next comes an interview, followed by approval of your Aliyah eligibility. Once approved, you’ll receive support for your move — including flight arrangements, an absorption plan, and guidance on housing, Hebrew courses (ulpan), and more.

From paperwork to packing, you're not alone. Israel welcomes you with a helping hand at every step.

A family of four walking through an airport terminal with sunlight streaming through skylights, casting long shadows.

Coming home: what does Aliyah mean on a personal level?

Aliyah is not just a legal process or a change of address — it’s a homecoming. For many, stepping off the plane in Israel feels like the end of exile and the beginning of something deeply personal.

It’s the moment when ancient prayers become everyday reality. When the Hebrew language surrounds you, and Jewish holidays shape public life. It’s walking the same land as your ancestors — and building a future your grandparents only dreamed of.

Aliyah is the heartbeat of Jewish destiny — and every Oleh adds a new note to that eternal song.

A woman smiling outdoors at sunset holding a small dog with a mixed coat, both looking at the camera.

LGBTQ+ ALiyah

Wherever you may be moving from, you’re likely to notice a remarkable improvement, there are very few places in the world that offer a better environment for LGBTQ+ people.

Since 7 October, many Jewish individuals around the world have felt increasingly unwelcome within the queer, feminist, and anti-racist movements. This exclusion has profoundly and negatively impacted our lives, and there is no justification for its acceptance. We have Israel as a source of support and belonging.

This page features a comprehensive list of LGBTQ+ organisations, businesses, and other relevant groups in Israel. Our community chat also includes a welcoming Queers for Israel group.

Woman with closed eyes leaning against a stone wall, wearing an orange headscarf and robe, with layered necklaces.

Aliyah as a single parent

Wherever you may be moving from, you’re likely to find a strong support network in Israel — one of the few places in the world where Jewish single parents can raise their children in a community rooted in shared values.
Since 7 October, many Jewish families have felt increasingly unsafe or unwelcome abroad, making the desire to raise children in Israel even stronger. If you are a single parent planning Aliyah with your children, it is important to know that Israeli immigration law requires the other parent’s written consent before minors can immigrate. This step can take time, so begin the process early.


This page offers guidance on navigating the legal requirements, connecting with family-friendly communities, and finding resources for single parents in Israel.

Where to settle in Israel?

One of the biggest decisions in the Aliyah journey is choosing where to live. Israel may be a small country geographically, but every region has its own character, rhythm of life, and social fabric. Understanding these differences can help you find the place where you and your family will feel most at home.

Jerusalem & Surroundings

Jerusalem is the spiritual heart of the Jewish world — diverse, vibrant, and full of history. The city is home to every stream of Jewish life: Haredi, religious Zionist, traditional, secular, Anglo, Russian-speaking, Ethiopian, Mizrahi, and Arab neighborhoods. Here you’ll find a high level of religious observance and a deep connection to Jewish learning and culture. Living in Jerusalem can feel inspiring, but it also comes with higher housing costs and the intensity of city life.

Tel Aviv & Center (Merkaz)

Tel Aviv and the wider metropolitan area are Israel’s economic engine. Known for its start-up culture, beaches, nightlife, and creativity, Tel Aviv is predominantly secular but surrounded by religious enclaves. This is the place for those who want to be close to business opportunities, international communities, and cultural life. Housing here is expensive, but many Olim find work and social circles quickly in the Center.

Northern Israel

The North offers a mix of Israeli-born communities and Olim from Russia, Ethiopia, Europe, and North America. Cities like Haifa, Tzfat, and Nahariya each have their own character — from Haifa’s coexistence of Jewish and Arab communities, to Tzfat’s mystical spirit, to Nahariya’s coastal calm. Housing is often more affordable, and the pace of life slower. The North can be attractive if you want a balance of community, nature, and affordability.

Southern Israel

From Ashkelon and Be’er Sheva to the Negev desert towns, the South is a region of growth and development. You’ll find large communities of Russian and French-speaking Jews, alongside long-established Israeli families, Ethiopian communities, and Bedouin Arabs. Housing is more affordable, and the government actively invests in the South to encourage new residents. If you value space, affordability, and pioneering spirit, the South may be right for you.

Things to Consider Before Deciding

  • Community: Do you want to live among other Olim, or immerse yourself in predominantly Israeli neighborhoods?

  • Religious life: How important is synagogue proximity, level of observance, or diversity of practice?

  • Work & Study: Consider job opportunities, commuting distances, and access to universities or schools.

  • Language & Integration: Some areas have strong Anglo, French, or Russian-speaking communities — which can ease integration, but also slow Hebrew learning.

  • Cost of Living: Housing prices, transportation, and daily costs vary significantly by region.

  • Lifestyle: Do you prefer city life, suburban comfort, or rural quiet near nature and sea?

In the end, there is no single “best place” in Israel — only the place that matches your family’s needs, dreams, and rhythm of life. Take time to explore, talk to locals and other Olim, and trust that your home in Israel will find you as much as you find it.

Check our our interactive map with the different areas at one click:

Interactive map

Aliyah with pets

Wherever you may be moving from, relocating with pets can feel overwhelming—but in Israel, you’re not alone.
From dog-friendly beaches to excellent veterinary care and a strong rescue culture, Israel is one of the most pet-welcoming countries in the world.


To bring your pet, you’ll need a microchip, updated vaccines, and an import permit—plus a bit of patience at Ben Gurion.

Click here for our step by step guide!

Aliyah with pets
Two men with sunglasses walking and smiling in a lively outdoor street at sunset, with people, cafes, and old buildings in the background.

Aliyah as a convert

Wherever you may be coming from, you’re likely to find a profound sense of recognition in Israel — one of the few places in the world where Jewish converts are embraced as full and equal members of the Jewish people.
Since 7 October, many Jews by choice have felt the sting of antisemitism and exclusion in their countries of residence, sometimes coupled with misunderstanding or doubt about the legitimacy of their Jewish identity. This can be deeply painful, but it has no place in a thriving Jewish future. In Israel, your Jewishness is not questioned — it is celebrated.


This page offers resources for navigating Aliyah as a convert, including practical guidance, community networks, and contacts who can help you find your place. Our community chat also includes a warm, inclusive space for Jews by choice making the journey home.

A woman and a young girl walking by the water on a beach at sunset, dressed in colorful, bohemian clothing with head wraps and layered necklaces.

Who can make Aliyah?

Aliyah is open to Jews from around the world — but who qualifies? According to the Law of Return, anyone with at least one Jewish grandparent, or who is married to someone with Jewish ancestry, is eligible to make Aliyah.

You don’t need to be religious. You don’t need to speak Hebrew. Whether you’re Jewish by birth or through conversion (recognized by a Jewish community), you may have the right to move to Israel, gain citizenship, and start a new chapter.

Aliyah welcomes the diverse mosaic of the Jewish people — from every background, denomination, and corner of the world.

A young boy smiling and holding a passport in front of the Western Wall during sunset.

Why is Aliyah so important for Israel and the Jewish People?

Aliyah is more than moving to Israel — it’s a living expression of Jewish resilience, unity, and continuity. Every Jew who makes Aliyah strengthens the bond between Jewish identity and the land of Israel.

For Israel, Aliyah brings new energy, perspectives, languages, and cultures. It helps build a diverse, vibrant society rooted in shared history and a shared future.

For the Jewish people, Aliyah is a bridge between generations. It turns the dream of return into reality — affirming that the Jewish story is still being written, and Israel is its beating heart.

A man with gray hair and a beard sitting on an orange couch in a cozy room, smiling warmly at the camera. He is wearing a brown turtleneck sweater and an orange patterned cardigan, with notebooks and papers on the couch beside him.

What support do new Olim receive?

Making Aliyah is a major transition — and Israel is ready to help. New immigrants, or Olim, receive a wide range of benefits to ease their first steps: free Hebrew classes (ulpan), financial assistance, health insurance, housing support, tax breaks, and guidance from dedicated absorption counselors.

You’ll also find special programs for students, professionals, retirees, and families — all designed to help you build a new life with confidence.

Aliyah isn’t just about arriving. It’s about thriving — and Israel walks that journey with you.