Emigrating to any country is difficult (see advice on general emigration) but a move to Israel can be very challenging. Getting it right involves preparation and planning.
1. In order to identify the right location for you consider your preferences: urban/rural, level of religious observance, number of anglos, choice of schools and local amenities, ease of local commuting, cost/type of housing, etc. Nefesh B’Nefesh have community profiles at community profiles.
2. Don’t underestimate how important learning Hebrew is. If possible start learning before you make aliyah. Language is one of the biggest barriers to the social and economic integration of olim (immigrants). Consider evening classes and self-help books in the year before you make aliyah.
3. Prepare the kids. Be realistic about all the changes but get them excited too. Most kids experience greater freedom and more of an ‘outside’ life in Israel.
4. Research the job market thoroughly. The ability to become self sufficient is one of your biggest challenges. Will the language barrier prevent you from continuing with your current career? Will you need to re-train? You will need to consider not only what you have to offer but what opportunities are available. Join online employment agencies such as www.israemploy.net which will enable you to apply for posts pre. aliyah, should you wish to do so.
5. Financially plan your first year. Supporting yourself during this period will involve a lot of expense. Olim receive ‘Sal Klita’ benefits for 6 months but you may need extra. Perhaps you want to go on trips and just enjoy the fact that you actually made it to Israel and have all these amazing places on hand now?!
6. Join email and social network groups. Nefesh B’Nefesh has an email group for those who are planning or have already made aliyah: NbN yahoo group. Most local Anglo communities have English e-mail groups. For a list of e-groups and for a full range of information on Israel and aliyah see useful links. Email groups are extremely useful, they could help you find accommodation, schools or a job.
7. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that schools in Israel are like Jewish Day Schools in the Diaspora. The best way to find a school is to post up a request for information from parents on the local Anglo email. Visit during the school day and try to be around at break time to observe the behavior of the kids in and outside of the classroom. Find out about the support available for your child, not just ulpan but additional help within lessons and with homework.
8. If you are able to, plan a pilot trip or visit a few places which you feel are of interest. Plan your initial accommodation. Renting is a good option as it will enable you to get a feel for an area before making any long term commitments.
9. Plan your first 6 months – accommodation, furnishings, shipping, schooling, ulpan, finances. This is your ‘settling in’ period; you will experience a great deal of change but it will help shape your long term plans.
10. The next 12 months… consider changes to location, housing, job opportunities, schooling based on the first 6 months.
Don’t be prescriptive, have a Plan B and be responsive to opportunities that may come your way. Many people don’t get it right the first time. You are unique – respond to the emerging needs of your family and don’t forget to celebrate every little success you have along to the way.
For other articles on emigration and aliyah see other useful articles.
