As is known, an individual born to parents who are Israeli citizens (even if only one parent has Israeli citizenship) automatically receives Israeli citizenship and all the ancillary rights thereto, the first of which includes the right to stay and work in Israel. Foreign citizens (not Israelis) are entitled to live and work in Israel provided that they meet the criteria enumerated in the law for such, the most common criteria of which is the fact that one is Jewish. As indicated, many foreign citizens are entitled to make “Aliyah” (immigrate) to Israel in accordance with the Law of Return which prescribes that not only can Jews immigrate to Israel but their children and grandchildren are also entitled to immigrate to Israel and receive citizenship.

Nevertheless, problems can arise when a foreign resident has a problem proving his Jewish ancestry and that his forefathers were Jewish, or alternately when the country refuses to acknowledge his conversion.

In light of the fact that proving one’s Jewish heritage may be a complex process, in particular for an individual who does not speak Hebrew and who is not proficient with the laws of the State of Israel (since dealing with the State’s Authorities may be a Sisyphean task), we recommend that persons in this situation receive assistance from an attorney who has significant experience when handling applications of this type with the State’s Authorities, who possesses the ability to file the necessary documents on your behalf, who will prepare the relevant applications  and contact the Authority in your name, even if you reside overseas.

Therefore, we suggest that you set up a consultation meeting and/or call (in the event that you do not reside in Israel), during the course of which we will evaluate your particular situation and come up with a customized action plan for you.

All the information mentioned above does not constitute a replacement for personal legal consultation.

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