Moving to Israel: the housing checklist for your first months

Finding a home is one of the first challenges after making aliyah or relocating to Israel. A little preparation saves a lot of stress.

Before you arrive

• Choose two or three target cities and compare rents by city.
• Plan temporary housing for the first weeks: a short-term rental or a sublet lets you visit before committing.
• Prepare your documents: passport, teudat oleh or visa, proof of income, and references if you have them.

Signing your first lease

• Leases usually run for 12 months with an option to extend.
• The Fair Rental Law caps the security the landlord can ask for.
• Note the condition of the apartment with dated photos before moving in.
• Have the contract checked if you do not read Hebrew well.

After you move in

• Arnona: register with the municipality in your name. Many municipalities grant new immigrants a discount during their first year: ask at the arnona office.
• Electricity, water and gas: transfer the accounts to your name with the meter readings on the day you move in.
• Internet: compare providers; installation can take a few days.
• Vaad bayit: introduce yourself to the building committee and ask about the monthly fee.

On Yad le Yad, you contact owners directly in English, French or Hebrew: apartments for rent in Israel.