It’s no secret that some applicant who eligible for Aliyah and Israeli citizenship do not immediately settle in Israel after obtaining their citizenship. For various reasons, some choose to leave Israel shortly after receiving their citizenship, while others plan to return within the first year after completing work in their home country, selling real estate, or dealing with other obligations. Additionally, some may want to have a “Plan B” in case they need to leave their home country due to antisemitism or other concerns.
If you see yourself in this situation and are not planning to relocate to Israel immediately after receiving your Israeli citizenship, it’s essential to understand that this is a possibility. However, there are several important considerations you should be aware of:
1. The Law of Return and intent to settle
According to the Law of Return and the Ministry of Interior’s (MOI) instructions, a person who wishes to make Aliyah must demonstrate an intention to settle in Israel. However, the law does not specify a time frame within which the person must move to Israel. This flexibility means that while you must show intent, there is no strict deadline for when you must relocate.
2. Option to renounce citizenship
After receiving Israeli citizenship based on the Law of Return, you have a three-month window during which you can renounce your citizenship. If you choose to do so, your status will revert to that of an individual eligible to make Aliyah, just as it was before you became a citizen. This option provides a safety net for those who may change their mind or who are not ready to fully commit to Israeli citizenship.
3. Restrictions on receiving an Israeli passport
During the first year after making Aliyah, you will not be eligible to receive an Israeli passport (Darkon) unless you are living in Israel. Instead, you can obtain a travel document (Laissez-Passer). However, to receive this travel document, you will need to wait three months or waive your right to renounce citizenship within the first three months after receiving citizenship. If you choose to waive this right, you can apply for the travel document immediately after obtaining citizenship.
4. Potential loss of benefits as an Oleh Hadash
If you do not plan to settle in Israel immediately after receiving citizenship, you may partially lose your benefits as an Oleh Hadash (new immigrant). These benefits are often tied to residency and may be reduced or forfeited if you do not fulfill the criteria of immediate settlement.
5. Status of children born after Aliyah
It’s important to note that any children born after the Aliyah process has been completed will automatically be considered Israeli by birth. This means they will be obligated to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) when they reach the appropriate age, unless they obtain a deferral or exemption. This is a significant consideration for families planning their long-term future in Israel or abroad.
Legal advice is essential
If you are planning to make Aliyah but do not intend to settle immediately in Israel, it’s important to know that you have this option. However, it is highly advisable to seek legal advice before submitting your Aliyah application. A legal expert can help you navigate the complexities of the law, understand your rights and obligations, and ensure that your plans align with Israeli regulations.
In conclusion, while it is possible to obtain Israeli citizenship without immediate relocation, there are significant legal and logistical considerations to take into account. Understanding these factors and consulting with a legal professional can help you make informed decisions about your future in Israel.
