Israel is no walk in the park, you will need to be patient, dedicated and organised in order to get one. The only foreigners exempt from this rule are those Jews making Aliyah to Israel, as these individuals will be “returning to the homeland” and requesting citizenship.
There are two main routes to getting a work visa in Israel:
- From a prospective employer
- Through your spouse/ partner (no marriage certificate necessary)
Applying for a work visa in Israel through your employer
Applying for a work visa in Israel through your spouse
The process of applying for a work visa in Israel
The application process consists of the following steps:
- Acquire documents from home country.
- Visit your local Misrad Hapnim (Ministry of Interior in Israel) for relevant forms and advice.
- Gather other necessary documents and letters.
- Submit application.
- Complete application interview.
- Pay visa costs on receipt of visa.
You will be asked to present the following documents:
- Your full birth certificate (not the abbreviated version distributed at birth). You can apply to the General Register Office (GRO) for this document.
- Marriage certificate or proof of single status. The single status letter, know as a TWIMC (To Whom It May Concern) letter, can also be obtained from the GRO. This letter confirms that there are no records of marriage from your 16th birthday to date of application.
- Criminal record check from your home country. Apply to your local police department for this document.
- All of the above documents must bear an official apostille stamp, which can be obtained from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). If possible, get hold of these documents before you leave your home country. If this is not an option, find a family member or friend to help you. Avoid visa agencies who charge exorbitant rates.
- Other required documents:
- Passport / ID copies
- Rental agreement or proof of residence
- Confirmation letter from your partner’s work or university
The visa is valid for a year. To extend your visa you must begin the application process one month prior to expiration.