What to Expect at the Consular Interview

Main Objectives:

• Verification of Jewish heritage or eligibility through marriage or descent.
• Validation of the accuracy and authenticity of submitted documents.
• Ensuring there are no security risks, criminal background, or other disqualifying factors.

Stages of the Consular Process

1Document Preparation

Before your consular visit, you must gather a full document package:

• Birth certificates (yours and, if applicable, those of parents/grandparents).
• Marriage/divorce certificates and other family status documents.
• Proof of Jewish ancestry: synagogue records, Bar/Bat Mitzvah certificates, letters of membership in Jewish communities.
• Current national passport.
• Standard-format photos.
• Aliyah application form (available on consulate or Nativ websites).
• Additional documents (military ID, diplomas, employment records as required).

2Booking the Appointment

Appointments can be booked independently, but it’s highly recommended to rely on the experienced team at goVisit.today to avoid delays or errors.

3The Interview

A Nativ officer or Israeli consul will:

• Review your file to ensure all data is authentic and complete.
• Ask questions about family, motivation for Aliyah, Hebrew knowledge, and plans in Israel.
• Assess the sincerity of your intentions.

Interview Tips:

• Refresh your knowledge of family history and important dates.
• Be calm, confident, and honest.
• Demonstrate connection to Jewish life and culture (holidays, organizations, etc.).
• Use certified translators and accurate documentation.
• Ensure all documents are authentic and clearly legible.

4Post-Interview: Aliyah Visa Issuance

• Upon approval, you’ll receive an “Aleph-Aleph” (Oleh) visa, which grants entry to Israel for immediate citizenship processing. Children who qualify as fourth-generation descendants may receive a humanitarian Aleph-5 visa instead.

Israel welcomes those who sincerely wish to become part of its society.

Possible Reasons for Rejection

• Inadequate evidence of Jewish heritage
• False or misleading information
• Security risks or criminal record
• Inconsistencies in documentation

What Happens After You Arrive in Israel?

1Initial Registration

• Visit the Ministry of Absorption for financial assistance and integration support
• Obtain your Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card)
• Enroll in Kupat Holim (health fund) for medical insurance

2 Integration

• Join an ulpan (Hebrew language course)
• Find housing through state programs or privately
• Seek employment and recognition of foreign qualifications

About Nativ

Nativ (נתיב), officially known as the Liaison Bureau, is an Israeli government body supporting Jewish communities in former Soviet states, Eastern Europe, and the Baltics.

Основные функции "Натив":

1Nativ's Main Roles:

• Verification of Aliyah eligibility
• Conducting interviews and document review
• Providing information and organizing seminars
• Helping with cultural integration before and after immigration

2Consular Screening:

• "Nativ" conducts screenings for applicants from the CIS countries and Eastern Europe.
• Verification of the authenticity of submitted documents and determination of any disqualifying factors.

3Information Support:

• Providing information and consultations regarding the process.
• Organizing seminars and meetings for potential repatriates.

4Assistance with Adaptation:

• Support in learning Hebrew and understanding Israeli culture before immigration.
• Organizing familiarization trips and programs.

History and Context

"Nativ" was established in the 1950s with the goal of maintaining contact with Jewish communities in countries behind the Iron Curtain, where official diplomatic relations were limited or absent.

The organization operated under special circumstances, fostering cultural and educational ties with the communities and facilitating their immigration to Israel.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, "Nativ" became an official governmental body responsible for consular screening and eligibility verification for residents of the CIS and Baltic states.

The organization has offices and consular branches in several cities across these countries.

Role in the Repatriation Process

"Nativ" works closely with the Jewish Agency ("Sokhnut"), the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.

Procedure through "Nativ":

• Applicants apply at "Nativ" offices in their countries of residence.
• Submission of documents and an interview with a "Nativ" representative.
• Upon successful screening, the applicant receives a visa to enter Israel.

Why "Nativ" Is Important for Potential Repatriates:

• Specialized Approach:
  • Understanding of the specific conditions common in post-Soviet countries.
  • Possibility to conduct interviews in the applicant’s native language.
• Support and Guidance:
  • Providing up-to-date information about life in Israel, educational and employment opportunities, and integration.
  • Assistance with possible challenges related to documents or family circumstances.

How to Contact "Nativ":

• Official Offices:
  "Nativ" has offices in several CIS and Eastern European countries. Contact information can be obtained via the Israeli embassy or consulate in your country.
• Through the Jewish Agency ("Sokhnut"):
  "Nativ" often works in close cooperation with local branches of the Jewish Agency, where you can receive initial consultation and be referred to a "Nativ" representative.

"Nativ" plays a key role in the repatriation process to Israel for residents of former Soviet countries. Thanks to the organization’s work, thousands of people have been able to confirm their right of return and start a new life. Contacting "Nativ" is an essential step on your journey.

We wish you a successful repatriation and all the best in your new life in Israel!