By Daniel Aspiro, Partner |
As of January 2025, all applications for Judaism-based visas in Israel will require a police clearance certificate from the applicant upon submission. This new requirement, introduced by the Ministry of Interior, aims to standardize the application process for all visas granted under eligibility as Jewish or as eligible under the Law of Return.
The affected visa categories include:
- B-1 Jewish Visa
- A-1 Bodek Aliyah Visa
- Aliyah Visa
- B-2 Visitor Visa Based on Judaism
Key Changes to the Application Process
Previously, certain applications could be processed on the same day, with decisions and visa issuance happening swiftly.
However, under the new guidelines, every application submitted to the Ministry of Interior will now be referred to the Jewish Agency for a determination of the individual’s eligibility. This eligibility review can take several weeks, thereby extending the overall processing time.
Overview of Affected Visas
B-1 Jewish Visa
The B-1 Jewish visa is a temporary work visa available to individuals who qualify as Jewish under the Law of Return but are not yet ready to make Aliyah (immigrate permanently to Israel). This visa allows applicants to work legally in Israel while maintaining their temporary worker status.
A-1 Bodek Aliyah Visa
The A-1 visa is designed for individuals who would like to check if to make an Aliyah. Often referred to as the “Bodek Aliyah” visa, it provides a temporary residency status to applicants while making a firm decision of whether to make an Aliah. Holders of this status can reside in Israel and access certain benefits, such as healthcare, during the checking period.
Aliyah
The Aliyah visa is granted to individuals making permanent immigration to Israel under the Law of Return. This visa allows new immigrants to gain Israeli citizenship and access all associated rights and benefits immediately upon arrival.
B-2 Visitor Visa Based on Judaism
This is a temporary visitor visa granted to individuals who can demonstrate a connection to Judaism. It allows for a long term stay in Israel for purposes such as visiting family or exploring the country’s Jewish heritage.
Implications for Applicants
The introduction of the mandatory police clearance requirement and the referral process to the Jewish Agency represents a significant procedural shift. Applicants should prepare for longer processing times and ensure that all necessary documents, including the police clearance certificate, are ready for submission to avoid delays. Consulting with KTA lawyers may help streamline the process and ensure compliance with the updated requirements.
By implementing these changes, the Ministry of Interior seeks to uphold consistent standards for all visa categories based on Judaism, while reinforcing the importance of thorough eligibility verification.