Immigration and Personal Status Attorney
Types of Visas in Israel: A Comprehensive Guide
Israel is an attractive destination for individuals seeking new opportunities — from its thriving high-tech industry to its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. As a result, there is a constant stream of foreign nationals seeking to visit, work, study, or settle in the country. Israeli immigration law provides a structured visa system with distinct categories, each designed for specific purposes and durations of stay.
By Igal Mor, Adv. & Notary
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Category B: Visit and Short-Term Visas
B/1 — Temporary Work Visa
A B/1 work visa is granted to foreign workers arriving in Israel for employment purposes. The visa is initially issued for one year and, subject to the procedures of the Population and Immigration Authority, may be extended for a total period of up to five years and three months. This visa category covers various employment sectors, and the application process typically requires employer sponsorship.
B/2 — Tourist Visa
The B/2 tourist visa is the most commonly issued visa category. Citizens of approximately 65 countries with which Israel has visa exemption agreements receive this visa automatically upon arrival. The standard duration of stay is up to three months, with the possibility of extension under certain circumstances. Visitors who wish to extend their stay must apply to the Population and Immigration Authority before their visa expires.
B/4 — Volunteer Work Visa
The B/4 visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to volunteer in Israel without receiving financial compensation. This visa is commonly used by individuals volunteering with recognized organizations, kibbutzim, and charitable institutions.
In addition to the short-term B-category visas described above, Israeli immigration law provides visas for longer-term stays, including both temporary residency visas and permanent residency permits.
A/1 — Temporary Residency Visa (Oleh Chadash)
The A/1 visa is intended for Jewish individuals who are entitled to Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return but do not yet wish to obtain full citizenship. This visa allows them to reside in Israel on a temporary basis while they evaluate whether permanent settlement is the right choice. It is commonly issued to new immigrants during their initial adjustment period.
A/2 — Student Visa
The A/2 student visa permits foreign nationals to reside in Israel for the duration of their academic studies. This visa must be applied for in the applicant’s country of origin and requires proof of acceptance to a recognized Israeli educational institution, along with evidence of sufficient financial means to support the period of study.
A/3 — Clergy Visa
The A/3 visa is granted upon request by a recognized religious institution seeking to invite a clergyman to serve in a religious capacity in Israel. The applicant must demonstrate a genuine affiliation with an established religious institution in the country and must hold appropriate religious qualifications for the intended position.
A/4 — Dependent's Visa for Relatives of Temporary Residents
Family members of temporary visa holders — such as spouses and dependents of A/2 (student) and A/3 (clergy) visa holders — are eligible to obtain an A/4 dependent’s visa, which permits them to reside in Israel for the duration of the primary visa holder’s stay.
A/5 — Temporary Residency Permit
The A/5 temporary residency permit confers rights similar to those of a permanent resident or citizen within the National Insurance system. This visa is typically issued to individuals progressing through the gradual procedure for spousal status regularization, as well as to certain categories of long-term residents. Holders of an A/5 visa are entitled to health fund membership and National Insurance benefits.
Why Legal Representation Is Essential
This article has reviewed the principal categories of residence visas available in Israel. At Mor & Co. Law Firm, our dedicated Immigration and Personal Status Department provides comprehensive legal assistance with visa applications, status regularization, and all matters related to residency and citizenship in Israel.
Obtaining legal status in Israel — whether a residence visa, permanent residency, or citizenship — is a complex and bureaucratic legal process. The Immigration and Personal Status Department at Mor & Co. understands these challenges and provides expert guidance at every stage, from initial consultation through final approval. We are committed to making this process as efficient and successful as possible for our clients.