Opening an Aliyah File

Written By Adam Kushner

Your First Step Toward Israeli Citizenship

Opening an Aliyah file (Tik Aliyah) is the first official step in your journey to Israeli citizenship. This file is your formal application to immigrate to Israel under the Law of Return, and it's managed by the Jewish Agency for Israel in coordination with partner organizations. The process varies slightly depending on where you live, but the fundamentals are the same worldwide.

What Is an Aliyah File?

An Aliyah file is your official immigration application to Israel. It contains your personal information, proof of Jewish heritage, identity documents, and all supporting materials needed for the Jewish Agency to verify your eligibility under the Law of Return and process your application for Israeli citizenship.

Once your file is opened, you'll receive access to a personal portal where you can track your application status, upload documents, and communicate with your assigned advisor.

When Should You Open Your File?

The recommended timeline is 8–10 months before your intended Aliyah date. This allows sufficient time for document gathering, processing, interviews, and approval. The process typically takes 3–6 months, but can be longer for complex cases.

Timeline Overview:

  • 12 months before: begin researching and gathering information

  • 8–10 months before: open your file and submit initial application

  • 6–7 months before: complete Jewish Agency interview

  • 3–4 months before: receive approval and apply for Aliyah visa

  • 1–2 months before: book flights and finalize arrangements

How to Open Your File: By Location

From the United States or Canada

North Americans apply through Nefesh B’Nefesh, which has a joint application with the Jewish Agency.

From the United Kingdom

UK residents work directly with the Jewish Agency.

  • Phone: 0800-085-2105 or 0800-051-8227

  • Email: ukquestions@jafi.org

From Anywhere Worldwide

The Jewish Agency’s Global Aliyah Center serves all countries.

  • Website: www.jewishagency.org/aliyah

  • WhatsApp: +972-52-474-0024

  • Toll-Free (Israel): 1-800-228-055

  • Email: gci-en@jafi.org (English)

  • Operates 22 hours/day, 6 days/week, multiple languages

From Australia

From South Africa

Opening a File from Within Israel

If you’re already in Israel on a tourist visa (B/2), you can change your status through Shinui Ma’amad (Change of Status).

Option 1: Through the Jewish Agency

  • Call the Global Aliyah Center: 1-800-228-055

  • Jewish Agency coordinates with Misrad HaPnim

  • Generally simpler, less Hebrew paperwork

Option 2: Directly Through Misrad HaPnim

  • Visit local Population and Immigration Authority office

  • Appointment required with Aliyah department

  • Forms completed in Hebrew

Note: Converts and those with special statuses (Ezrach Oleh, Katin Chozer) must go through Misrad HaPnim directly.

Documents Required to Open Your File

Identity Documents (for each family member):

  • Valid passport (minimum 1 year validity)

  • Birth certificate (long-form, showing both parents)

  • Passport-sized photos

Proof of Jewish Heritage:

  • Letter from recognized rabbi (dated within past year)

  • Documents proving Jewish lineage

  • Conversion certificates and rabbinical letters (if applicable)

Family Status Documents:

  • Marriage certificate

  • Divorce decree (if divorced)

  • Death certificate (if widowed)

  • Children’s birth certificates

Background Check:

  • Police clearance certificate

  • Required from each country lived in for more than 1 year since age 14

  • Apostille required

Additional Forms:

  • Health declaration

  • Entry/exit travel history

  • Waiver allowing inter-agency information sharing

Apostille and Document Authentication

Documents from Hague Convention countries require apostille certification. Non-Hague countries require consular legalization. All foreign-language documents must be officially translated to Hebrew.

What Happens After You Open Your File

Step 1: Application Review
Assigned Aliyah advisor reviews file and requests missing documents.

Step 2: Interview
Interview with Jewish Agency representative to verify eligibility and plans.

Step 3: Eligibility Approval
“Mazal Tov” letter confirming eligibility is issued.

Step 4: Aliyah Visa
Apply at Israeli consulate. Processing ~18 business days. Visa valid 6 months.

Step 5: Flight and Arrival
Book flight. Upon arrival receive Teudat Oleh and begin absorption process.

File Fees

Opening an Aliyah file involves a non-refundable fee paid to the Jewish Agency. The amount varies by country and covers administrative processing.

Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Start early

  • Gather documents first

  • Keep originals safe

  • Monitor document validity

  • Respond promptly to requests

  • Stay in contact with advisor

  • Join Olim communities for support

Key Contacts Summary

Jewish Agency Global Center

Nefesh B’Nefesh

Ministry of Aliyah and Integration

  • Phone (Israel): *2994 or *3450

  • Website: gov.il

The Bottom Line

Opening your Aliyah file is an exciting first step toward Israeli citizenship. While the paperwork can seem daunting, the Jewish Agency and partner organizations guide you throughout the process. Start early, stay organized, and reach out to your Aliyah representatives to begin your journey home.

Download File
Free Aliyah Consultation
Adam Kushner
Previous

Proving Jewish Heritage
Next

The Law of Return Explained