Moving to a new country is a bold and exciting adventure, and if you’ve just arrived in Israel, bruchim ha’baim—welcome! Whether you’re here for work, study, or to make a new life, Israel is a land rich with history, culture, and diversity. As a newcomer, you may find that navigating the ins and outs of daily life can be an adventure in itself. This guide is designed to help you settle in, understand the basics, and make the most of your time in this extraordinary country.
1. Settling into Life in Israel
Registering as a Resident
One of the first things you’ll need to do as a new immigrant (or oleh chadash) is to register with the Ministry of Interior (Misrad HaPnim) and obtain your Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card). This ID will be essential for almost every aspect of daily life, from opening a bank account to accessing healthcare. If you’re not an immigrant but are here for work or study, make sure your visa is in order and that you understand the requirements for extending it, if necessary.
Tip: The bureaucracy can be slow, so bring patience (and plenty of documents!) when dealing with government offices. Many government services are transitioning to online platforms, but you may still need to attend in person for certain procedures.
Finding a Place to Live
Housing is one of the first practical concerns you’ll face. The Israeli real estate market can be competitive, especially in major cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Rental prices vary significantly depending on location, so it’s important to explore different areas and consider what best fits your budget and lifestyle.
- Tel Aviv: Known for its vibrant nightlife, high-tech industry, and beachfront, Tel Aviv is popular but expensive.
- Jerusalem: The capital city offers a rich cultural and religious experience but tends to be more conservative.
- Haifa: Israel’s northern city offers a mix of beaches, mountains, and a slower pace of life, along with more affordable housing.
- Smaller towns and Kibbutzim: Some newcomers opt for smaller towns or communal living in a kibbutz to experience a quieter, community-centered lifestyle.
Once you’ve found your home, making it feel like “yours” will take time, but connecting with your neighbors and local community can help you settle in quicker.
2. Understanding Israeli Culture and Customs
The Language Barrier: Hebrew and More
Hebrew (Ivrit) is Israel’s official language, and while English is widely spoken, especially in cities, learning some basic Hebrew will go a long way in helping you feel more integrated. Many cities offer free or subsidized Hebrew classes (ulpan) for new immigrants. These courses are an excellent way to start learning the language and meet other newcomers.
Common Hebrew phrases you might find useful:
- Shalom (שלום) – Hello or peace
- Toda (תודה) – Thank you
- B’vakasha (בבקשה) – Please or you’re welcome
- Kama ze oleh? (כמה זה עולה?) – How much does this cost?
Beyond Hebrew, Israel is a multilingual society. Arabic is also widely spoken, especially in Arab communities, and you’ll often hear Russian, Amharic, and French due to Israel’s diverse immigrant population.
Shabbat and Jewish Holidays
Understanding the rhythm of Israeli life means understanding Shabbat and the Jewish calendar. Shabbat (the Jewish day of rest) begins at sundown on Friday and ends at sundown on Saturday. During this time, many businesses and public transport systems close, especially in more religious areas like Jerusalem. Tel Aviv and Haifa tend to be more secular, so you’ll find some services operating on Shabbat.
In addition to Shabbat, Israel observes numerous Jewish holidays, many of which will affect business hours and public life. For example:
- Rosh Hashanah: The Jewish New Year, marked by festive meals and family gatherings.
- Yom Kippur: The Day of Atonement, where the entire country virtually shuts down, and there are no cars on the roads.
- Passover: A week-long holiday during which many Israelis refrain from eating bread, and supermarkets may not sell leavened products.
These holidays can be a wonderful time to experience the richness of Israeli culture, but it’s important to plan ahead, as services may be limited.
3. Navigating Daily Life
Public Transport and Getting Around
Israel has a well-developed public transportation system, but it can take some getting used to. Buses and trains are the primary modes of transport. The Rav-Kav card is a must-have for anyone planning to use public transit. It works for buses, trains, and even some shared taxis (sherut), and can be recharged online or at kiosks.
- Israel Railways: Trains connect major cities like Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem. They’re efficient but can get crowded during rush hours.
- Buses: Egged and Dan are the main bus operators in Israel. Buses are generally reliable, but be mindful that they stop running early on Friday and don’t operate on Shabbat.
- Sherut: These shared taxis follow bus routes but operate on a more flexible schedule, including Shabbat. They’re a great option if you need to get around when buses aren’t running.
Healthcare in Israel
Israel has an excellent healthcare system, ranked among the top in the world. As a resident, you’ll be required to enroll in one of the four health funds (kupot cholim): Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, or Leumit. Each fund offers a range of services, and you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Once you’ve registered, you can access general practitioners, specialists, and emergency care. While most doctors speak English, it’s always a good idea to bring someone fluent in Hebrew if you’re unsure.
Tip: If you’re an oleh chadash, health insurance is free for the first six months, but you’ll still need to register as soon as possible.
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey
Moving to a new country can be challenging, but each day in Israel offers an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, exploring Jerusalem’s ancient history, or enjoying the beaches of Haifa, Israel is a country that rewards curiosity and courage. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—Israelis are famously direct but also incredibly warm and willing to assist.
As you get to know Israel better, you’ll discover that it’s not just a place to live but a place that lives within you. Welcome to Israel—your adventure is just beginning!