The most useful advice I got after I moved to Israel came from a friend who made aliyah five years earlier. It all breaks down to one simple formula. Prioritize — by week, month and year (remember, though, your mileage may vary).

First Week: Take Care of the Essentials

This week is all about handling the basics while keeping stress levels low. The key here is to stay organized, get support, and take time to soak in the moment.

1. Take Care of Official Paperwork – Head to the misrad hapnim (Interior Ministry) to get your teudat zehut (Israeli ID). If you haven’t already, register for health insurance (Kupat Cholim) and open an Israeli bank account.
2. Find Your Feet – If you haven’t secured permanent housing yet, use this week to explore neighborhoods and consider your options.
3. Connect With Other Olim – One of the best things you can do is reach out to other new immigrants. They’ll have insights, resources, and encouragement to share. And be sure to get an Israeli phone number. Staying connected is crucial for navigating, communicating, settling in, or just venting.
4. Get a Local Guide – Having someone walk you through the first steps can make all the difference. They are your lifeline. Ask Olim Paveway to connect you with an experienced personal melaveh (guide), someone who’s been through the process themselves and can guide you through as well.
5. Take a Break – Yes, there’s a lot to do, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself. Go to the beach, go for a coffee at a local café, or take a stroll through a market. You made it!

First Month: Set Up Your Life

This is the time to get comfortable and set yourself up for long-term success.

1. Improve Your Hebrew – Enroll in ulpan (intensive Hebrew class). Start practicing with locals. Even basic Hebrew skills will make a huge difference in your daily life.
2. Understand Public Services – Get familiar with the healthcare system, your local community center, and public transportation (you’ll need to get a rav kav or bus pass).
3. Find Your Community – Whether through a synagogue, an olim network, or a hobby group, finding your people will make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.
4. Network – If you’re looking for work, start networking. Israel thrives on personal connections, so reach out to professionals in your field, join online groups and job boards, and attend events for new olim.
5. Keep Exploring – Visit nearby cities. Try new foods. Experience Israeli culture firsthand. This is your chance to truly embrace the aliyah adventure.

First Year: Thrive in Israel

The focus shifts from survival to thriving as you truly start making Israel your home.

1. Deepen Your Hebrew Skills – Continue learning Hebrew, whether through ulpan, private tutors, or daily practice. It will open doors for work, friendships, and integration.
2. Establish Financial Stability – If you haven’t already, secure a stable job, learn the tax system, and create a budget that works for the Israeli cost of living. Most importantly, get an accountant – ideally one who understands both Israel and U.S. accounting rules.
3. Build Lasting Relationships – Invest in friendships, whether with Israelis or fellow olim. These connections will provide support and make life in Israel more fulfilling.
4. Embrace Israeli Culture – Celebrate local holidays, understand Israeli humor. Watch Israeli TV. Listen to Israeli radio (especially stations that play the news every hour). Get involved in local traditions. The more you immerse yourself, the more at home you’ll feel.
5. Take Time to Enjoy Life – It’s easy to get caught up in bureaucracy and daily challenges, but don’t forget why you made aliyah. Travel around the country, spend time in nature, and celebrate your achievements.

Final Word: You’re Not Alone!

One of the most important things to remember is that aliyah is not a solo journey. Find a mentor, connect with olim networks, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. And remember to celebrate your successes, big and small.

You’ve earned it!

Olim Paveway’s Olim Toolbox offers timely tips for anyone moving to or visiting Israel.

Join our WhatsApp at chat.whatsapp.com/Ic8dnfdnlspgaptmccktbf for more tips and chat with our experts live Sundays at 9 p.m. Israel time (3 p.m. EST), at tinyurl.com/y2sj3z72 — a new topic every week.

Want to arrange for a Paveway personal guide (melaveh)? Write to [email protected].