Israel
Coastal BeachesIsrael is a small yet diverse country located in the Middle East, bordered by Lebanon to the north, Syria to the northeast, Jordan to the east, and Egypt to the southwest. It has a rich history that is central to the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic religions, with ancient sites such as Jerusalem's Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The country's landscape is equally varied, ranging from the fertile green valleys of the Galilee, the mountainous Golan Heights, the Negev Desert in the south, to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth's surface. Israel's Mediterranean coast offers beautiful beaches and vibrant cities like Tel Aviv, known for its Bauhaus architecture and bustling nightlife. The economy is advanced, with leading sectors in high-tech and innovation, and the country is known for its cutting-edge developments in various fields, including agriculture, water management, and cybersecurity. Despite its small size, Israel is home to a melting pot of cultures and traditions, with a population that includes Jews from all over the world, as well as Arabs, Druze, Bedouins, and other ethnic groups, each contributing to the country's rich tapestry of customs and cuisines. Israel's political climate is often in the global spotlight, with ongoing conflicts and peace efforts being a significant part of its modern history. Despite these challenges, Israel remains a country of great historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural richness.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsGet Quote
BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
BlueCross BlueShield Global SolutionsBlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote
Podcasts
Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat
Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns
Living in Israel
Best Places to Live in Israel
Visa & Residency
Obtaining a residency in Israel involves several steps and can vary in difficulty depending on the type of visa and the applicant's circumstances. The B/1 Work Visa is a common option for expats who have secured employment in Israel. To obtain this visa, an individual must first receive a job offer from an Israeli company. The employer must then apply to the Ministry of Interior for a work permit on behalf of the employee. Once the work permit is approved, the employee can apply for the B/1 Work Visa at their local Israeli consulate or embassy. This visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed. Another option for expats is the A/1 Temporary Resident Visa, which is often used by individuals eligible for Aliyah (Jewish immigration) under the Law of Return. Applicants must prove their Jewish heritage and may be required to undergo an interview at their local Israeli consulate or embassy. Upon approval, they can live in Israel and have the same rights as Israeli citizens, except for the right to vote. Digital nomads often use the B/2 Visitor's Visa, which is intended for tourists but can also be used by those who wish to stay in Israel for short-term work or study. This visa is valid for up to three months and can be extended under certain circumstances. The process for obtaining a residency visa in Israel requires patience and thorough documentation. Applicants must provide various documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial means, health insurance, and sometimes a police clearance certificate. The difficulty of the process can vary; it is generally straightforward for those with job offers or Jewish heritage but can be more challenging for others. It is advisable to consult with the Israeli consulate or a legal expert to ensure all requirements are met. Overall, while the process can be bureaucratic and time-consuming, it is manageable with proper preparation.
Healthcare in Israel
Israel's system is known for its high quality of services and is based on a universal healthcare model. All Israeli citizens and permanent residents are entitled to basic health care as a fundamental right. The system is funded through taxation and is administered by four non-profit health insurance organizations, known as "sick funds," which are regulated by the government. These provide a standard basket of medical services, including hospitalization, primary care, and various specialties. Private healthcare is also available and offers quicker access and more choice for those who can afford it. The quality of both public and private healthcare in Israel is generally considered to be high, with Israel being a hub for medical innovation and advanced treatments. The cost of public healthcare is relatively low due to government subsidies, while private healthcare costs can be significantly higher. Expats and digital nomads who become residents can gain access to public healthcare by joining one of the sick funds and paying the health insurance tax. Tourists, however, are not covered by the public healthcare system and should have travel insurance.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Israel is considered high, particularly in major cities such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, where housing, goods, and services can be expensive.
Weather
Israel experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by long, hot, and dry summers, and short, cool, and rainy winters. The coastal areas have a milder climate compared to the inland regions. The northern and coastal regions of Israel are relatively humid, while the southern and eastern areas are arid and desert-like.
Educational System in Israel
The educational system in Israel is known for its high standards and is compulsory from the age of three until the end of high school, usually around the age of 18. The system is divided into three tiers: primary education (grades 1-6), middle school (grades 7-9), and high school (grades 10-12). Children typically start school at the age of five or six, entering into a pre-primary framework known as kindergarten. Primary and middle schools focus on a broad curriculum, including Hebrew, mathematics, English, history, science, and physical education, among other subjects. High school students often have the option to specialize in certain subjects, depending on their interests and future career aspirations. The Israeli Matriculation, or Bagrut, is the high school graduation exam that is necessary for higher education in Israel. The quality of education is generally high, with a strong emphasis on science and technology. Israel's education system also includes religious and secular schools, catering to the diverse population of the country. Parents moving to Israel can expect a robust education system with a variety of options to suit their child's needs and interests.
Living in Israel
Healthcare in Israel
Best Places to Live in Israel
Moving to Israel
