Moving to Israel from Canada

Moving from Canada to Israel is an exciting adventure, but let’s be real, it can also super-scary. Between going thru all of the bureaucracy, adjusting to a new country and culture, and having learn Hebrew – it all might feel overwhelming.

Which is exactly why I wrote this article.

Here are some tips from a professional career coach based in Tel Aviv – who is originally from North America – to make your transition to Israel much, much smoother.

Enjoy!

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1. Will You Make Aliyah?

If you’re Jewish, the Law of Return grants you automatic citizenship, making things much easier for you.

But if you are not Jewish, you’ll need to get aa work visa, student visa, or a partnership visa.

These visas are more difficult and take more effort to get… and may require additional documents as well.

The Israeli Ministry of Interior (Misrad Hapnim) website will be your best friend here.

You can check the website for all of the options available for you to move to Israel from Canada.

In addition, make sure to double-check which paperwork / documents you will need to provide – if and whenever you arrive to the immigration offices in Israel.

Pro Tip: Plan ahead to come into the government immigration offices with plenty of patience. Waiting lines at the Misrad Hapnim might be very long, despite having an appointment.

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2. Learn Hebrew?… You Really, Really Should.

Of course learning Hebrew isn’t mandatory, but it’s a major key to unlocking your true Israeli life.

Duolingo and podcasts are great, but true cultural immersion will involve learning the language.

In addition, sign up to attend an ulpan (Hebrew school), or find a language partner.

Or even better – both!

I suggest you strike up conversations whenever you can… with whomever you can.

Israelis will love the effort, even if your pronunciation sounds horrible, and don’t forget the old saying is true “practice makes perfect”.

So practice as much as you possibly can in order to make your move to Israel from Canada easier.

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3. Finding an Apartment in Israel?

Renting an apartment in Israel is a whole different experience than renting one in Canada.

Make sure you take the time and research neighborhoods, be prepared to pay upfront fees, and don’t be afraid to negotiate!

Facebook groups and websites like Yad2.com will be your best bet for finding an apartment fast.

Pro Tip: You will need to use Google Translate on your apartment hunt, so download the Chrome extension ASAP.

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4. Get Ready for Culture Shock

Get ready for a level of directness that might feel like punches to the gut.

Israelis are extremely passionate, heavily opinionated, and always ready for an argument.

You will need to learn how to embrace the loudness, the flamboyant gestures, and the in your face (and sometimes brutal) honesty. It’s all part of the culture.

Israelis are not an overly polite people…. not at all.

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In Conclusion…

I suggest to consider using the guidance above as just a basic and small start to your research into a new and exciting journey.

One things for sure, moving to Israel from Canada (with the right planning, and for the right reasons) will be a truly unique and unforgettable blessing – I promise you.

Good luck and Shalom!