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Here are some past questions and answers. This service is brought to you by Eli Birnbaum of the Jewish Agency.
I am 18 years old I live in South America,
Chile and in February of the year 2000 I am going to do Aliya, the problem is
that it has been hard getting information of the ministry of absorption and
I would like that information if you can send me any, of my rights, the
Universities, and everything in general that has to do with Aliya.
Thank you very much
Have a look at http://www.wzo.org.il/spanish/index.html for information in Spanish
and of course http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/index.htm. In addition I will send
you query to our Latin American desk for further information.
Naturally you should speak to your local Shaliach to help you with the processing..
You can see a list of universites and the courses they offer at
http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/fsp.htm
One other site you should view is http://www.moia.gov.il/english/types/types.html
Take care
Eli
Can you give me more information about your MILA ulpan program. I heard that
they have an Ulpan for those who have finished Ulpan and are not satisfied with
their level
Contact: Ed
Dear Ed
The Mila program is a private Ulpan we only put there information up as a public
service since they do not have their own web site. You can find their un-updated
information at it at http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/mila.htm. They now have longer
courses available as well and of course the prices have gone up. For example the
evening course is now 700 NIS for the semester. They should be updating their
information in a week or two but in the meantime you can get anything you need by
writing David or Jo at mila@netvision.net.il
Would you please email me a list of the names, addresses, and phone
numbers of the physical therapy schools in Israel. I have been unable to
find any of them on the Web.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jan
Dear Jan
You can find them a list of all fields offered at Israeli universities at
http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/degrees.htm.
The only places I know of are Ben Gurion University http://www.bgu.ac.il/ and Tel
Aviv http://www.tau.ac.il/.
Their phone numbers are:
Tel Aviv University 972-3-6408111
Ben Gurion University 972-7-461111
If you need information in other paramedical fields check out
http://www.israel-mfa.gov.il/mfa/go.asp?MFAH0aj90
I am in the process of changing careers and will probably
go into teaching. Can you give me some guidance on what teaching opportunities
there are in Israel, including teacher education and training programs and how to
get into them? I'll need to go back to school for certification, and I'm thinking, hey,
maybe I can do that in Israel and save myself some time. That's especially important
since I want to get married.
Thanks!
Eric
Dear Eric
Education in Israel is similar to the rest of the world. There are jobs available,
especially in the outlying areas. The vacation time is great and the pay is pretty bad.
Men have an easier time to find work then women since the majority of teachers are
women and men are needed.
You do not write what you wish to teach. If it is English and you have a B.A. degree
then you can retrain here in about two to three years maybe less depending on your
undergraduate courses. If you decide to finish your education degree abroad then
you can retrain here in about 10 months to be an English teacher. The problem will
arise if you decide to teach something like history since the courses taught here are
totally different then anything you would be trained for in the states. Most teachers
study the field they wish to teach for 3 years and then in their fourth year they study
pedagogical studies.
What subjects are in the most demand? English, Math, Sciences, Special Education.
Male "Limudei Kodesh" (Jewish subjects) teachers are also sorely needed.
I hope this helps
Check out http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/teachfaq.htm and
http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/teachers.htm
It has been my observation that there are no programs and even less encouragement
for those who wish to make aliyah after age 35. The Jewish Agencies are missing a
good market. What gives?
Kate
Dear Kate
You are so right. The problem is that when you reach a certain age most
people want to do things a bit different and do not take well to a structured
volunteer environment. In addition programs like kibbutz Ulpan are highly
subsidized but since there are a lot of participants with large classes it makes sense.
The Market for the over 35's is so small that the subsidy would have to be very high
and those who run the programs (kibbutzim etc) do not believe that it is possible to
arrange a viable program.
Being that as it may I do recommend the Sar-El program
http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/sar-el.htm and http://www.sar-el.org.il/ which is
geared to Adults wishing to volunteer either in hospitals or army bases. It is possible
that your skills may be of use in the latter. The program does not include an
intensive Hebrew Ulpan. Hebrew programs are offered in Ulpans mostly in the city.
They do not provide dorm facilities so you will have to get an apartment on your
own. There are Ulpanim also on kibbutzim but they have a maximum age of about
30.
There are two other possibilities which maybe of interest
http://www.ipf.org/young.htm for those under 40 and archeological digs at:
http://www.mfa.gov.il/mfa/go.asp?MFAH00wk0
I hope this helps
eli
I made aliya in august 1994 and since then I'm a full-time student, so I will be next
year. My questions is how much rights do I have and till when and also when I want
to buy a house till when I have time and how much money or help will I get.
Thanks, Miriam
Dear Miriam
The amount you receive is determined by your marital status, where you are buying
and how long you have been in the country. To get the exact amount you should turn
to your nearest mortgage If you are at Bar Ilan you should have a Bank Adanim on
your campus.
As to the length of time it is 7 years from the date you made Aliyah so take a deep
breath and begin to look things over.
You can get a good idea of how many "points your would have and what kind of
mortgage you will get from the Bank tefahot site (Hebrew only) at
http://www.tefahot.co.il/
other sites to see are http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/mort.htm
http://www.moia.gov.il/english/types/housing/housing4.html
Another wonderful resource is the archive on mortgages from the Tachlis list which
is available at http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/tachbank.htm
My name is Adam . I am a 17 year old American senior in high school. I just came
back from a Young Judaea summer program and I am now seriously thinking about
making Aliyah after high school. I would be delighted if you would send me as
much information as possible on the Absorption Center, army service, chayal boded,
and anything else that pertains to a young American immigrant.
Dear Adam
Making aliyah is a big step and one which should be taken slowly with a lot of
prethought. Sometimes it is easier to make aliyah at a relatively young age. On the
other hand you will have to serve in the army for 2 1/2 years which can sometimes
be difficult for someone who has not grown up with the idea and whose hebrew may
be minimal.
Much of this information directly from our web site. You would be well advised to
have a long talk with one of our shlichim in your area.
http://www.jafi.org.il/grey/usa.htm As far as the army goes there is and IDF site but
as you can well understand there is a limit to the information we can put on the web.
http://www.idf.il/english/news/main.htm
You may want to consider coming as a tourist and studying Hebrew on a Kibbutz
Ulpan http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/kibbutz.htm. before you make a final move.
This way you can have a better idea what is happening in Israel and the options
available to you while at the same time you are learning Hebrew.
Two last tips - Include your family in you decision making process and try to meet
people like you who are considering making aliyah. Both will make the process
easier.
My name is Jennifer I have a question for you, and I would be so grateful for the
answer/guidance.
I know that there is such a thing as "counting of the months" and around 30
something months, the govt starts ticking away at your zchuyot. how much time do i
have until i should make aliyah, in
order not to lose my zchuyot. I am a single/college student. I am enclosing the dates
I have been here.
Jen
Dear Jen
The only office which can officially tell you how long you have bee here is the
Ministry of the Interior and they do it only in person . Unofficially it seems from
what you sent me it seems that you have been here for about 30 months .
The general rule is that you may be here for up to 36 months before you begin to
lose the time you have to use your rights. Remember your rights do not begin to run
, rather you will be entitled to less years to utilize them. Each calendar year in
which you have been here for 4 months is counted. Have a look at
http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/tourist1.htm.
Give me a call if you want to discuss it further
I am 19 years old. I am French but live in the USA for around a year. I am
Jewish (very proud to be) and hope to go live in Israel. I hope to study at an Israel
school. Can you tell me about what happens with the immigration...can I start
working when I arrive there?
Maybe I could stay in a good kibbutz. a religious one, safe. then try to work
the afternoon if possible with the immigration papers and make money then
maybe go to university. can you help me?
I think, in France, when you want you go to Israel for your Aliya, the airplane
ticket is free thanks to the Jewish Agency etc... Is there anything like that in USA?
please help me,
Sabrina
Dear Sabrina
Naturally you should make contact with a local Aliyah emissary so he can begin the
process and help you with your plans. The fact that you are now living in the states
will have a bearing on your customs rights and the air fare . This is something you
should clear up with your Shaliach.
There are a number of kibbutzim which do offer you the possibility of working and
going to school . Usually you have to work a specific number of hours to pay for
your room and board This is something you probably will only be able to arrange
when you arrive.
As you are young and religious I would highly advise you to be in touch with
Tehillah Tzeirah which helps young Adults in their Aliyah http://www.tehilla.com/
You can get much of your initial info it on the web:
For information on Aliyah see http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/prep.htm#prep
For information on Aliyah in french see http://www.col.fr/agence-juive/
If I marry an Israeli can I still use my housing rights?
Sara Fink
Dear Sara
This is the kind of question that I answer "yesSbut" Keep in mind that if your spouse
already owned an apartment ( even if he already sold it) you will be considered a
"Baalat Diyur" and once you get married and not be entitled to a mortgage. If he
didn't then it still may be better to get the loan as a young Israeli couple rather then
as an Olah married to an Israeli.
Go to your nearest mortgage bank and discuss it with them. They can provide you
with the most up to date information.
eli
I have been here for over 5 years as a tourist I heard that my rights started running.
Have they and if so what can I do about it?
Steve
Dear Steve
If you have been here for more then 60 months then you will have lost your
absorption rights and your housing rights. Remember they only count years that you
visited for more then 4 months. Since this can be complicated look at the FAQ
http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/tourist1.htm if you are really close then go to the
Ministry of the Interior and have them tell you exactly how long you have been
here.
My name is Yossi and I'm interested in making aliyah from America and going to
university for a profession in healthcare - possibly medicine. I was wondering if you
could tell me more about the STUDENT AUTHORITY which helps out with costs
for school.
Shalom Yossi
In general the Government will pay tuition for your study in any field. We only pay
for one degree and there are limitations regarding age, time spent since you last
studied, time in Israel etc.
The best I can do is direct you to two sources on the internet the first is a FAQ
available at
http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/minhal.htm and of course the Ministry of Absorption
at
http://www.moia.gov.il/english/types/students/students.html. If you are interested in
medicine you should be aware that the schools will only accept application here in
Israel and if accepted you will have to make Aliyah. Once last point , there is no
premed so that once you are accepted you finish is six years.
I am interested in Kibbutz Ulpan and have two questions
First since I am traditional Can I go to ulpan on a religious kibbutz if I'm not
orthodox per se?
Secondly What if I'm unhappy on my kibbutz. Can I change to another ulpan?
Josh
Dear Josh
Yes most religious kibbutzim will accept you even if your are not orthodox.
Religious kibbutzim just ask that their volunteers or ulpanists respect the religious
practices of the kibbutz (i.e. keep kosher, shabbat), while they are on the kibbutz.
It is possible to change to another ulpan. However, if you're not happy with the
kibbutz, the first thing
to do is talk with the ulpan director or house mother of the ulpan. If you do
definitely decide to terminate your stay in the ulpan, it must be coordinated with the
ulpan administrator and the Jewish Agency supervisor. Be aware that if you leave
the kibbutz without doing so, your chances of joining another kibbutz ulpan are not
good.
eli
My name is Svante Holmberg I´m 19 years old and I´m sending you this e-mail from
Stockholm, Sweden. I am very eager to join the Kibbutz Ulpan program but I don´t
know who to turn to. I mailed all the addresses on the Ulpan home page but they just
told me to contact the nearest located aliyah office in Sweden. There is no such
office in Sweden as far as I know. And the Swedish - Jewish association (Judiska
församlingen) just refer to you. Therefor i turn to you; if you have the opportunity
please give me the information I need.
Yours sincerely, Svante
Dear Svante
I assume that you wish to volunteer on a kibbutz. The problem is that you have to be
interviewed first and that can only be here in Israel. You can probably get some
information by contacting your local Israeli consulate or you can email the kibbutz
desk directly Kibbutzdsk@aol.com
I am a 23 year old graduate of Boston University with a degree in Jewish History. I want to come to Israel and go to Law school as a new immigrant will my degree be recognized. I also heard that you only pay for one degree is a Law degree considered a BA? And will you pay for it?
Ella Dear Ella
Of course we will recognize your degree, the questions in what context. If it is simply that you are a collage graduate then there is no problem . If you wish to go to law school in Israel, then since there is no pre Law here anyway it will not make that much of a difference. Although I have been told that if there is a choice between a new Oleh with a degree and one without you will have the edge s long as your Hebrew is on an accepted level.
In your case the Student Authority will probably pay for your law degree even though it is considered a BA. Why? First of all we recognize that in a number of countries you need to do pre law . Second of all even if you wished to do a different degree - lets say Physical Therapy , we would probably still pay for it since your degree is not really practical here. In the latter case it would have to go before a committee for permission but it has often been given in the past.
Remember to look at the Student Authority site
http://www.moia.gov.il/english/types/students/students.html
Good luck
I am 62 and have had open heart surgery. If I make aliyah will I be covered by Kupat Cholim
John Singer Dear John
Since National Health Insurance went into effect on Jan. 1, 1995 every citizen and permanent resident of Israel including olim from the West are entitled to the basic health services provided by the four Kupot Holim without regard to age or state of health. The basic health services are defined as a basket of services. The National Health Insurance Law also allows Additional Health Services (Shaban) to be provided to members of the 4 kupot. According to the law, which was amended in the past year, these
services must be available equally and without restriction to all members of the particular kupah without regard to age or health status and at a price which is not affected by health. The price varies according to age group.
The Kupah is allowed to set qualifying periods during which coverage is restricted. These periods range from 3 months to 24 months and generally the more expensive treatments have the longest qualifying periods.
Special thanks to Steven Kelter of the AACI
I am not Jewish and wish to study for my masters degree at an Israeli University. Can I get any help?
Jen Rasyid Dear Jen
There are two kinds of scholarships offered in Israel. One is only for immigrants which move here under the law of return. The other is usually only for advanced degrees and is for outstanding students no matter which country they are from. If you fit into this category then you can apply directly from the individual web sites of the Universities. Just go to http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/fsp.htm
and you will find a link to all the major Israeli Universities
Eli
I am not Jewish and wish to study for my masters degree at an Israeli University. Can I get any help?
Jen Rasyid Dear Jen
There are two kinds of scholarships offered in Israel. One is only for immigrants which move here under the law of return. The other is usually only for advanced degrees and is for outstanding students no matter which country they are from. If you fit into this category then you can apply directly from the individual web sites of the Universities. Just go to http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/fsp.htm
and you will find a link to all the major Israeli Universities
Eli
Is there any online information on part time Ulpanim in Ra'anana? I'm looking to see if there's an evening one I can take after work?
Thanks Dear Ari
If you have Hebrew you can find them on the web at http://www.raanana.muni.il/openning.asp
I didn¹t see anything there about Ulpanim. You can also try to email them at zeevik@raanana.org.il
I am 25 and have a bit of Hebrew ( day school) background Is there any ulpan aside from kibbutz which would give me academic studies as well. I have a B.A and would rather not be with 18 year olds.
Jerry
Dear Jerry
I am going to assume that you are not referring to pursuing a masters degree. If I am wrong then correct me and I will help you with a different direction. If you want a good Ulpan with academic level supplementary programs then your best bet would probably be WUJS Arad http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/wujsinst.htm . This is one of the venerable program around. People come from all over the world to study in one of the best ulpanim for tourists available. As part of the program they try to help you find work in your field for a number of months after the ulpan.
Can I buy more than one dishwasher as a new immigrant since I cannot use the same one for meat and mile. I heard conflicting information
Yoseph Chernower
Dear Yoseph
You can but you will have to pay the taxes on the second one. The reason why you heard conflicting information is because the regulations changed about a year or so ago.
Eli
I am almost 40 and have two children. I have been here for about 18 years as a student. If I make Aliyah will the army draft me I heard that the army takes you according to your age at arrival as a tourist.
Yehudah
Dear Yehudah
No the army will not take you even though your age on your day of entry was 22 . You can see the chart at
http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/service.htm
I was told that you have 4 years to buy Israeli items and not three as is generally assumed . Is this true? Others tell me it is only 3 years who is right. BTW I am not a student nor did I serve a long period in the army.
Dov
Dear Dov
Like many questions both of them are right. In general you have three years to use your rights but what happens to someone who like you may not have had the opportunity to use their rights and send a lift. In such cases customs has the discretion to allow you to purchase the five major household items made in Israel. These include a washing machine, stove, heater, fridge and believe it or not a television.
In general customs is quite liberal about giving the extension. The problem will arise is you brought in a lift but have not yet bought a fridge for example . Since customs does not "have" to grant you this extension you will have to get written permission from them. Just to be sure do it a month or so before the end of your three years that way if they do not give it , you will still have the possibility to buy it before your rights expire.
One of the best sites specifically for customs information is http://www.adwizards.com/kef/privileges.htm
Eli
I've been receiving your phrases (passing phrase) for two months. Before that I knew a little bit of Hebrew, since I was in Israel few times and I liked the language and the country. I thought that I should learn more, and your phrases made my decision even stronger. I think they are very interesting and useful, but I want to learn more.
I live in Belgrade (Yugoslavia), and here there aren't any courses of Hebrew as far as I know. So, I was wondering if there are some webs sights where I could learn more.
Kristina
Dear Kristina
The use of the internet for teaching Hebrew is still in its infancy . There are a number of site you should look up
For all online references to Hebrew, including areas subcontracted by the
Jewish Agency to other organizations and persons, I generally use the
http://www.hebrew.about.com or
http://www.jajz-ed.org.il/faq/
For online learning, you can find a number of references by going to the subpage at
http://www.hebrew.about.com/education/languages/hebrew/msublearning.htm
Hebrew Corner http://www.jajz-ed.org.il/jewish/corner.html
Please also refer to the resources in the New York Hebrew Center on
http://www.ivrit.org/
Special thanks to Gila Ansell Brauner for her input
My husband (58) and I (53) are thinking about making aliyah. Our children are already in Israel but we do not want to be dependent on them. What sort of job opportunities would there be for us?
I am an executive secretary with strong English skills and also act as faculty for in-house training in English and Etiquette. We know that we will have to learn Ivrit, at our age can we go the kibbutz/ulpan route or is there some other way ?
Dear Jo
You are in a kind of twilight zone of Aliyah. On one hand you are still too young to really retire on the other your are above the age when it is easy to find work. I do not wish to be a bit of a wet blanket but you should also keep in mind that learning Hebrew is usually more difficult for older adults.
Being this as it may, if you plan your Aliyah correctly it could be very rewarding. If possible, you should be financially independent of any further income needs. You should also count on at least one if not two Ulpanim. Sorry about the kibbutz but the cut off age there is about 30. This means you will have to either look into the possibilities of an absorption center or rent in the city and attend a local Ulpan.
Some people succeed in a career change Others who have skills which are useful here open private small business using skills they have brought from abroad .
You do not write what you husbands field is . There are jobs for executive secretary's especially if you have decent computer skills. Again no Hebrew is a problem but not insurmountable since many organizations and firms need both english and hebrew speaking secretary¹s.
You should begin by sitting with your local Shaliach and bounce off ideas as to how and if it could work. You may also want to join the Tachlis list which a very busy list of potential Olim and veteran Olim trying to help each other
Let me know how else I can be of help.
I know this is a bit off the aliyah information but is there some place where I can do some research as far as names go, my maiden name was Sulzbacher, and from what I have been told, it has Jewish roots, and I really would like to find out about this.
Irene
Dear Irene
I have received a number of requests for genealogy site so here goes
http://www.oz.net/~cyndihow/sites.htm
How does one get started on making aliyah?
In particular, a pilot trip to explore career opportunities, housing options, etc. We are a family of five (adults ages 41 and 39, children ages 9,6, and
1), contemplating making aliyah sometime within the next 18-24 months.
Rabbi David Seigal
Dear Rabbi Seigal
Your fist stop should be to contact any of the Aliyah information offices at
http://www.jafi.org.il/aliyah/offices/aictr.html.
You can also begin to get much of the information directly from the Internet http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/index.htm.
I would also join a support group like tehilla which can be invaluable in bot for information and to help you along the process. Often olim join as a group and buy collectively thus lowering the prices of you major appliances.
I looked through your site as you advised but only saw programs for under 30¹s what about us 40 year olds?? I am especially interested in kibbutz
Bob Reiser
Dear Bob
You are correct in that there are very few organized programs for those who have passed the big 4.
A few suggestions would included
Volunteering at Sar-el
Trying an archeological dig
A special kibbutz program on http://www.kibbutz.org.il
I was here years ago as an oleh I used almost none of my rights - just a tv . Now I think the time has come to return but I cannot find my Teudat Oleh anywhere . I want to send a life before I return. Will I have problems and what can I do about it?
Sharon
Dear Sharon
Yes you will have problems, since you have no proof that you didn't use
your rights. Do not send a shipment at this time but rather come here and
do a Tatzheir at the local court. In it you will have to affirm that you only bought a tv .With this and you can go to customs and the ministry of absorption and try to get your rights but it is not easy and there are no guarantees. You will not be able to get another teudat Oleh but they may give you something similar.
Eli Birnbaum
Director of Internet Services
The Jewish Agency / World Zionist Organization
P.O.B. 92 Jerusalem, Israel 91000
Tel: 972 2 6202689 Fax: 972 2 6202266
Elibir@jazo.org.il http://www.jafi.org.il
Dear Guru,
Hi, my name is Ainav and I made aliyah on July 9th, 1998. Recently I was offered a great chance to work outside of Israel. I know that I will return to Israel, probably in a year or so, to continue my new life here. However, I have no idea what exactly I'm supposed to do in order to freeze my rights, etc.
Could you please send me some advice about all the steps I should take before I go, keeping in mind that I will definitely return in
the future.
Thanks.
There is nothing you have to do prior to your leaving the country. Just make sure that you have your Teudat Oleh in a safe place. I recommend that you photocopy it so that if it is lost, you have something to present to the Ministry of Absorption and especially to customs.
Your Israeli passport will record when you left and this is necessary to prove that you have been out more then six months. If you get a new passport abroad, again make sure that you have a photo of the old one.
Other then this there is nothing to do prior to your leaving, unless you took out special loans for shipping which you will have to pay back .
Can I purchase American appliances in Israel as an Olah?
Sheri.
Dear Sheri,
Yes you can if they are Israel made. Of course you can buy any appliance you wish, but remember that if you want to use your customs rights, you have two choices: First, import it from your country of origin. Second, buy an Israeli item here. The procedure is relatively simple.
Go to the stores which sell appliances and see if these products are available and at what price. Ironically, the stores with the cheaper prices and the fastest delivery, are usually not the manufacturers' outlets.
Place the order for the specific product you want with the store. The store will then give you a form (proforma) listing prices for the product with and without taxes.
Take this form to the local customs authority with all passports (old and new), teudat oleh, teudat zehut and home rental or purchase contract.
Customs authorities will check your documents to make sure you have not previously purchased this appliance. Customs authorities will then give you a form which lists the price of the appliance and the amount of tax from which you are exempt. Proof of the purchase of that appliance is then registered in your passport or Teudat Oleh.
Receipt of the form with the appliance price and tax exemption plus registration in your passport is considered an indication of purchase - even though you have not paid for, or received, the appliance.
Take the customs form to the store along with the money for purchase of the appliance. Generally the appliance is delivered within a short time, subject to local conditions.
You can get this and other customs information at http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/customs.htm
I would like to make aliyah to Israel in about two to three years. Could
you send me some materials snail mail? (Address supplied)
I am an Orthodox Convert. Will that certificate be sufficient?
Thank you and Shalom.
Tzippora
Dear Tzippora,
Your conversion certificate should be fine and you can do the whole process through one of our Aliyah Centers. Allow at least six months for the whole procedure especially if you wish to be in an absorption center.
In the meantime, you can find the Aliyah Centers at http://www.jafi.org.il/aliyah/offices/emi.html. You can drop by and pick up anything you need there. If you are a long way from the nearest center, then you can call them and they will send you an initial packet of information. Of course you can also get most of it on the web at http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/index.htm
I am a new immigrant and I heard that you no longer have to pay import duty
on computers brought in from abroad - is this true and where can I get
up to date customs information?
Cheers,
Joel Rubin
Dear Joel,
It is true you can now bring in a computer without taxes. The
problem is that your warranty may not be valid here. If you buy one
here in Israel you would have to pay the 2% plus 17% VAT since Israel does
not make computers.
I am coming this summer and would like to bring in a stereo for my brother. Do I have to go through the red line?
Danny
Dear Danny,
First of all you can get a booklet in English at your local Israeli
consulate which tells your exactly what the customs laws are. If the
stereo is worth more then $200 then you will have trouble and must go
through the red line and pay the taxes. You do not state if your brother is a
tourist or an Oleh. If he is an Oleh then you can leave it for him at
customs where he can pick it up at something called Maman, however if this is done it will count as one of his 'three lifts'.
Customs determines the value according to a catalog which they have and
get updated every so often. If the item is on sale for less then $200
and normally costs more, then you should bring a copy of whatever ad or
magazine you found it in. This is considered accepted proof. Having a
receipt is not usually accepted since it is very easy to get a receipt
and put in whatever number you wish.
How much approximately an new immigrant has to earn in order to support
live costs in a big city (like Tel-Aviv or Jerusalem), besides the
financial aid he's given? I've just graduated in Chemical Engineering.
How difficult is it to find job in this area?
Roberto
Dear Roberto,
This is the type of question to which there is no answer that is good
for everyone why?
Your expenses depend on a number of factors -
Marital Status, number of children? Do any of them have special needs?
Do you live in a major city or a development town? Do you own a car?
What rent are you paying $400 or $800 a month? If single, with how many people are you sharing an apartment? Do you have any loans to pay back from abroad? If you are buying an apartment what kind of loan are you taking out?
The financial aid is only really given for the period of your study in
an Ulpan and while it helps, you will need back up funds for expenses.
The best way to start is probably to an Ulpan like Ulpan Etzion where
everything is heavily subsidized or you may want to consider a Kibbutz Ulpan.
I wrote a FAQ on the cost of making Aliyah a while ago it is available
at http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/money.htm. Don't let it frighten you.
Finally regarding work, your field is both recognized and there is a
demand but I would advise you to come with some experience if at all
possible.
I am a new immigrant and I heard that you no longer have to pay import duty
on computers brought in from abroad - is this true and where can I get
up to date customs information?
Cheers,
Joel Rubin
Dear Joel, It is true you can now bring in a computer without taxes. The problem is that your warranty may not be valid here. If you buy one here in Israel you would have to pay the 2% plus 17% VAT since Israel does not make computers.
I am coming this summer and would like to bring in a stereo for my brother. Do I have to go through the red line?
Danny Dear Danny, First of all you can get a booklet in English at your local Israeli consulate which tells your exactly what the customs laws are. If the stereo is worth more then $200 then you will have trouble and must go through the red line and pay the taxes. You do not state if your brother is a tourist or an Oleh. If he is an Oleh then you can leave it for him at customs where he can pick it up at something called Maman, however if this is done it will count as one of his 'three lifts'. Customs determines the value according to a catalog which they have and get updated every so often. If the item is on sale for less then $200 and normally costs more, then you should bring a copy of whatever ad or magazine you found it in. This is considered accepted proof. Having a receipt is not usually accepted since it is very easy to get a receipt and put in whatever number you wish.
How much approximately an new immigrant has to earn in order to support
live costs in a big city (like Tel-Aviv or Jerusalem), besides the
financial aid he's given? I've just graduated in Chemical Engineering.
How difficult is it to find job in this area?
Roberto Dear Roberto, This is the type of question to which there is no answer that is good for everyone why? Your expenses depend on a number of factors - Marital Status, number of children? Do any of them have special needs? Do you live in a major city or a development town? Do you own a car? What rent are you paying $400 or $800 a month? If single, with how many people are you sharing an apartment? Do you have any loans to pay back from abroad? If you are buying an apartment what kind of loan are you taking out? The financial aid is only really given for the period of your study in an Ulpan and while it helps, you will need back up funds for expenses. The best way to start is probably to an Ulpan like Ulpan Etzion where everything is heavily subsidized or you may want to consider a Kibbutz Ulpan. I wrote a FAQ on the cost of making Aliyah a while ago it is available at http://www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/money.htm. Don't let it frighten you. Finally regarding work, your field is both recognized and there is a demand but I would advise you to come with some experience if at all possible.
I am 16 and a half and interested in coming to Israel on a program
Where can I get more information about programs and funding..
Signed,
Parents don't know yet Dear writer, Probably the best site for you would be the Israel experience program site http://www.israelexperience.org/ie_new/ Depending on how old you will be when you come you may also look into the WZO's student site http://www.wzo.org.il/zionet/. Regarding funding you have a few choices. First of all if you have never participated on an Israel program then definitely try your local Jewish Federation or Synagogue. You can also try the new birthright Foundation at bthright@netvision.net.il. I tried but couldn't find any Web site for them. Finally it may help convince you parents by showing (as you have) that you are willing to take the initiative in both researching the programs and looking for help in funding. Hoping to see you here.
I heard that there is a possibility of training as a tour guide at the Tower of David and that there are also parts in a
historical murder mystery play. Is this true and where can I get more information?
Batia (already in Israel) Dear Batia,
You are referring to The Tower of David museum which is opening a training course for tour guides at the end of May (late
afternoon hours and Fridays). This does not mean that you are a recognized tour guide by the Ministry of Tourism rather as a tour guide for the museum itself. Knowledge and interest in Jewish history is a big plus. Contact Micki at 626-5357, or fax your details to 626-4014 (attn. Micki). You can see their site (there is only one page and no email) at http://jeru.huji.ac.il/info_museum.htm
I originally made Aliyah a long time ago. I have been back in the US for about 10 years. If I return will I have any rights?
Gerry Dear Gerry,
Your first stop must be your local Aliyah Shaliach so that he can get all the relevant information needed to give you a definitive answer. In general, when a new immigrant leaves Israel their rights are frozen. This only applies if he is gone for more then 6 months. At that time the rights are frozen retroactively from the day he left. Every time you return your rights begin to tick again and you to leave again for 6 months to refreeze them. Furthermore, not all your rights are frozen, for example
rental subsidies keep running.
I would greatly appreciate any information you can provide me regarding artist colonies, artist kibbutzs, and jobs teaching art at a college level. I want to make aliyah and need to get things worked out in advance.
Marc
Dear Marc,
How can I get immediate updates on the exchange rates in Israel?
Miriam B. Dear Miriam, That's an easy one. Just call the Bank of Israel at 972-02-655-2999. They have a recording that is automatically updated. Of course you can also get it on the internet at:http://www.bankisrael.gov.il/BANK-bin/eng.shearim.pl
Can you own property as a tourist? Can I get a loan? Do all banks offer tourists loans?
David L. Dear David, No problem. There is financing through mortgage companies and the banks. The rates are linked to the dollar and the index. You can get a loan from a mortgage company (banks which just give mortgages, some examples are Bank Yerushlayim and Bank Carmel). All of the big banks have subsidiaries which handle mortgages. (Bank Miskan is part of Bank Hapoalim and Bank Tefachot to Bank Mizrachi). Some people believe that mortgage companies give you better service. Others like the fact that their bank is tied to a major bank. What is certain is that there are differences in rates, lengths of the mortgage and of course, service - so shop around. I found one site that has a pretty good explanation of the rates and procedures http://www.bankisrael.gov.il/BANK-bin/eng.shearim.pl
I made Aliyah one year ago but unfortunately I must go back to attend to my sick father. Since I may be gone a while what will happen to my rights here in Israel?
Susan B. Dear Susan, First of all I am sorry to hear about your father. It is so hard to be far away when someone in your family is ill. So, before anything else I wish your father a speedy recovery (refuah Shlaima) and hope you will be able to rejoin us soon. If for any reason you need to remain abroad for a period of 6 months or longer most of your rights will be frozen. Remember that every time you return to Israel your rights will begin to tick again and in order to "refreeze' them you will have to leave for another 6 full months. If you find that you will be abroad for a number of years you should contact the appropriate agencies to check on your status.
Dear Guru,
I am a dentist and am 28 years old. What kind of army service do I have to do?
Joel A. Dear Joel, A dentist (male) up to the of age 29 (inclusive) must serve 18 months and then do regular reserve duty. A medical doctor (male) up to the age of 32 must serve 18 months and then do regular reserve duty. In each case, during the initial service the doctor/dentist will be paid a regular keva salary by the IDF. Any doctor/dentist older than that must serve an initial 21 days and then do regular reserve duty (miluim). Unlike doctors dentists actually have a choice whether they want to serve as dentists in the army or to do regular service according to their age. One warning, if you choose to do regular service then you must do regular miluim and cannot serve as a dentist in miluim. www.jafi.org.il/comehome/army.htm
Dear Guru,
I am studying in Israel on a one-year program and wanted to know if it is possible to do regular studies at a university as a tourist?
Renee Dear Renee, Most programs will allow you to study as a tourist. One exception is medicine, which allows you to apply as a tourist but to join the program, you must make Aliyah. Many students decide to study here as tourists. The main reason is the tuition, which can be 1/5 of that at some schools in the States. Another factor is being able to function in Hebrew even thought you're not quite ready for Aliyah. You can find links to all the universities at www.jafi.org.il/discover/index.htm just click in the Student center - university programs.
I was wondering which profession, if any, is more worthwhile to study in Israel than abroad?
Bob Dear Bob, That is a subjective question but let me share my experience with you. If you choose a profession which requires you to work in Hebrew and where the studies are different from abroad, it may be better to study here. Two examples which spring to mind are teaching http://www.jafi.org.il/comehome/jobs.htm and social work www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/sw.htm . Teachers not only need a high level of Hebrew but both the methodology and the subject matter taught here are different. This doesn't mean that a teacher cannot retrain but your language skills will not match that of a student who trained here. The same applies to social work where language is an essential element of the profession. Studying in Israel will also arm you with a greater understanding of the Israeli social service system and the Israeli mentality. Another field which is allegedly better to study here is law www.wzo.org.il/aliyah/lawyer.htm . This is definitely true if you choose criminal law. Remember, being accepted into law school is very difficult anywhere in the world and here your fluent English will give you an advantage over a Hebrew speaker.
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