Just like in any moving situation, I would know since I've moved three times, it can be scary, exciting, and overwhelming at times. That is why this blog was created, to assist you in your energetic stage and in the mess of confusion and anticipation and offer you some much needed guidance and a helping hand.
First off, hi, my name is Bat-el and I'm the Aliyah Coordinator at the New York office. I have been in my position for almost two years and I'm so excited to share with you the knowledge I have learned. I am Israeli-born and currently American living and working for JAFI (The Jewish Agency for Israel). However this blog is my personal hobby and is in no way, shape, or form directly affiliated with the Jewish Agency for Israel. The information gathered in this blog is of my own research and experience.
This is not just a blog about every day Aliyah troubles and misshapes, but also about life, living, and being happy in the land of Israel. I will offer you an inside look into our day-to-day office life, easy to make Israeli recipes and secrets, and even a little bit of fashion trends that are a hot cultural topic.
If you have any questions, want to collaborate, or reach out you can email me at bat-elm@jafi.org.
So first lets get to the basic; The Process of Making Aliyah
1. Opening a file:
To open a file you have to go on the Nefesh B' Nefesh website (www.nbn.org.il). Nefesh B' Nefesh is a great organization that the Jewish Agency works with, they have very helpful tools for you to use and their website is very easy to navigate.
taken fron nbn.org.il |
The documents will vary according to your status, but the basic documents will be listed on the NBN website once you sign up to make aliyah.
3. Coming in for a Jafi Interview with a Shaliach:
This is by far the best part! You get to come to our New York office and meet our amazing shlichim. We have Mor Leshem, sweet, funny, and very knowledgeable shlicha and Zohar Nitzan, our experienced, smart, and sharp shaliach. You call 1-866-835-0430 to set up an interview in the New York office.
4. Approval:
Once you have been interviewed by an Aliyah shaliach your file will be sent, electronically, to our eligibility department in Israel, where it will be approved by our best "zakaut" people.
5. Visa and Flights
Depending on your status, if you are a regular oleh, you will need a visa. An Aliyah visa is obtained through the New York office with our partnership at the Israeli Consulate. Once you have your visa you are free to book a flight from NBN by calling 1-866-425-4924.
GEEEESH that was a lot of information!!!! Not to worry! this will all come back later with tips, tricks, and personal experiences of how to stay on top of your game and make the process smooth and easy.