The Law of Return is fundamental to Israeli national identity and immigration policy. It reflects the idea of Zionism and the pursuance of creating a safe and prosperous haven for Jews from around the world.
After the horrors of the Holocaust and the extermination of six million Jews by the Nazis, the need for a safe haven for Jews became even more urgent. The creation of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent passage of the Law of Return in 1950 were part of this process.
The Law of Return is based on the idea that Israel is the national home for all Jews, regardless of where they live. This law is one of the basic laws defining the national character of the State of Israel.
According to the Law of Return, every Jew has the right to become a citizen of Israel. This definition has been the subject of many debates and changes over the years. This right also extends to a Jew’s children and grandchildren, as well as their spouses and in certain cases – widows/widowers.
Since its enactment in 1950, the Law of Return has undergone a number of changes and amendments, reflecting the evolution of Israeli society and worldview. It is worth noting that recently there has been much discussion about changing the Law and denying the opportunity of Jewish grandchildren to make Aliyah to Israel.
According to the Law of Return, a Jew is defined as a person born of a Jewish mother or who has converted to Judaism and does not belong to another religion.
The Law points out the criteria for denial of Aliyah in certain cases, such as if the applicant poses a threat to public security or public order in Israel.
How do you prove you are Jewish?
It should be noted that the Aliyah process is different for natives of the former Soviet Union and American and European countries, as a different evidentiary basis is required.
One of the most common ways for people from America and Europe to prove their Jewishness is to provide a letter from a recognized rabbi attesting to Jewish ancestry or membership in the Jewish community.
To prove the right of Aliyah, natives of the former Soviet Union shall provide documents confirming their religion or the religion of their family members. These documents may include:
- Ketubah (Jewish marriage contract): Ketubah of parents or grandparents can serve as proof of Jewish ancestry.
- Brit Milah (Circumcision Certificate): For men, a circumcision certificate can serve as proof of Jewish ancestry.
- Bar Mitzvah / Bat Mitzvah: Certificate of the ceremony of the Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah.
- Extracts from archives, certificates of birth, old letter in Hebrew or Yiddish, photographs, documents testifying to the Jewish life of ancestors.
- Evidence from Jewish communities can confirm Jewish ancestry.
It is important to note that even if an applicant has proof of Jewish origin, the Ministry of Interior of Israel may require additional evidence or clarification. In such a case, it is advisable to consult an attorney specializing in immigration issues in Israel.
