How to get an Israeli citizenship

As our internal statistics show, many people want to get an Israeli passport without living in the country. But it should be borne in mind that it is impossible to get a Darkon like some European passports – through investing in the economy of the state or business. If we do not consider the way to become an Israeli through many years of work and living in the Israel, then it remains only to prove your Jewish origin.

How does one prove Jewish roots?

Only at first glance, the process of confirming Jewish roots seems simple. In practice, the independent collection of a package of documents for consular verification and the interview itself is a very long and labor-intensive process. To simplify it, there is a company WRAI. And obtaining citizenship the first time is an even more difficult task.

Every year, thousands of people are sent for a second interview, to search for additional supporting documents, or are denied a repatriate visa.

WRAI specialists have analyzed in detail the process of finding roots in the material: How to find and prove your Jewish roots?

How to get an Israeli passport without residence

The process of obtaining an Israeli passport without residence fully corresponds to similar stages, which we have described in more detail.

1. Determining Eligibility for Citizenship

Israeli citizenship can be obtained under the Law of Return, which applies to Jews, their children, and grandchildren.

You will need to provide documents confirming Jewish ancestry (e.g., birth certificates, documents of parents or grandparents).
 
2. Collecting Required Documents
 
To apply for an Israeli passport without residence, you will need:
 
  • A valid passport from your current country of citizenship.
  • Documents proving Jewish ancestry.
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • A citizenship application form.
  • A police clearance certificate (in some cases).
  • Birth and marriage certificates (if applicable).
 
3. Submitting the Application
 
Applications can be submitted through the Israeli embassy in your country or via the Ministry of Interior (Misrad HaPnim) in Israel.
The embassy will verify your documents and conduct an interview to confirm eligibility for citizenship.
 
4. Attending the Interview
 
During the interview, you may be asked about your reasons for obtaining citizenship, your ancestry, and your plans concerning Israel.
The authenticity of your documents will also be reviewed.
 
5. Receiving Citizenship and Identity Card (Teudat Zehut)
 
Once your application is approved, you will receive an Israeli identity card (Teudat Zehut), formally confirming your citizenship.
 
6. Applying for the Passport
 
After gaining citizenship, you can apply for an Israeli passport (Darcon).
For non-residents, the passport may initially be issued with a limited validity (e.g., one year) and can be renewed provided you comply with Israeli immigration laws.
 
7. Paying the Fees
 
A government fee is required to obtain the passport. The amount may vary depending on the country where you submit the application and the urgency of processing.
 
8. Receiving the Passport
 
The passport can be collected in person at the consulate or mailed to you, depending on the rules of the embassy in your country.

Getting a Darkon

Until 2017, to get a Darkon, it was required to settle in Israel for at least a year. Now you can get it right away. But it is issued to new repatriates for only 1 year. However, there is an alternative—a Lesse Pass for a period of 5 years. To get acquainted with the differences between these two passports, follow the link.

Documents for obtaining citizenship

We have prepared professional recommendations for you that will help you prepare a package of necessary documents:

  • Application form for repatriation;
  • Documents for obtaining citizenship;
  • The Law “On Citizenship”.

Do you know that now you can get an Israeli passport without even leaving from your country? But then the document will have to wait 2-3 months. The WRAI offers to obtain an Israeli passport in 2-14 days without mandatory residence in Israel.

Second Passports