Acquiring Israeli Citizenship by Descent

Eligibility Criteria (2025)

✅ Children born anywhere to at least one Israeli citizen parent (mother or father) are automatically Israeli citizens by descent (Nationality Law, Section 4).
✅ Under the Law of Return (1950, amended 1970), Jews, children or grandchildren of Jews, and their spouses are eligible for citizenship upon immigration (aliyah), even without prior Israeli parentage.
✅ Eligibility under the Law of Return excludes those who voluntarily converted from Judaism or pose a security/public health risk (Section 2(b)).

Required Documentation (2025)

✅ Applicant’s birth certificate (legalized/apostilled and translated into Hebrew if necessary).
✅ Israeli parent’s proof of citizenship (e.g., Israeli passport, Teudat Zehut ID, or birth certificate), if claiming descent directly.
✅ For Law of Return: Proof of Jewish ancestry (e.g., parent’s or grandparent’s birth certificate, Jewish marriage certificate, or conversion documents).
✅ Applicant’s valid passport or identification document.

Application Process (2025)

📍 For direct descent (Israeli parent): Register with an Israeli embassy/consulate (if abroad) or Population and Immigration Authority (if in Israel) to obtain citizenship documents.
📍 For Law of Return: Apply for an oleh visa through an Israeli consulate or Jewish Agency, then complete aliyah and receive citizenship upon arrival.
📍 Submit all required documents; processing typically takes weeks to months depending on verification.
📍 Upon approval, receive an oleh certificate (Law of Return) or Teudat Zehut ID card (direct descent).

Additional Considerations (2025)

📌 Israel permits **dual citizenship** for those acquiring it by descent or Law of Return; no renunciation of foreign nationality is required.
📌 Citizenship by descent applies only to the first generation born abroad; second-generation descendants may need Law of Return eligibility or discretionary approval.
📌 More details can be found via the Population and Immigration Authority.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I hold dual citizenship with Israel?

Yes, Israel allows dual citizenship for those acquiring it by descent or through the Law of Return. You don’t need to renounce your foreign nationality.

Who qualifies for Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return?

Jews, their children, grandchildren, and spouses qualify under the Law of Return (1950, amended 1970), even without an Israeli parent, provided they immigrate to Israel.

What if my grandparent was Jewish but my parent isn’t a citizen?

You’re still eligible under the Law of Return as a grandchild of a Jew, but not by direct descent. You’d need to apply for an oleh visa and complete aliyah.

How long does it take to get Israeli citizenship by descent in 2025?

For direct descent, registration can take a few weeks. For Law of Return, processing an oleh visa and aliyah typically takes 1-3 months, depending on verification.

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