The Law on Family Unification in Israel regulates the procedure by which spouses of Israeli citizens who are not Israeli citizens can obtain citizenship. This process is aimed at maintaining family ties and facilitating the integration of families into Israeli society. The Law is regulated by articles 7 and 8 of the 1952 Law on Citizenship.

The main provisions of the law

Spouses of Israeli citizens can obtain citizenship through the naturalization process. The law provides for consistent verification and confirmation of the sincerity of marital relations.

A foreign spouse must go through a step-by-step procedure for legalizing a foreign spouse, known as a Gradual Procedure for Naturalization. This procedure includes the registration of marriage, the legalization of marriage in the Israeli Interior Ministry and the subsequent application for citizenship.

Stages of the procedure

1Marriage registration

The marriage must be registered and recognized by the Israeli Ministry of the Interior (MIA). To do this, you will need to provide a marriage certificate, identity cards, a certificate of non-criminal record and other documents.

2Applying for a Gradual Process

Upon initial application, the couple submits an application to the Israeli Interior Ministry for a step-by-step procedure for the legalization of a foreign spouse. Employees of the Ministry of Internal Affairs conduct interviews, analyze the provided evidence of cohabitation:

• shared accounts,
• photo,
• joint trips,
• other documents.

3Gradual Process

During the first 1-2 years, the foreign spouse receives a temporary residence permit. The couple also undergoes additional checks to confirm the sincerity of the marital relationship.

4Obtaining citizenship

After successful completion of the program, the foreign spouse submits an application for Israeli citizenship. He also needs to take an oath of allegiance to the Country, after which the Israeli Interior Ministry will issue a certificate of citizenship.

Required documents

1. Marriage certificate: The original and a notarized copy.
2. Identification cards: Teudat Zeut of an Israeli citizen and a valid passport of a foreign spouse.
3. Non-criminal record certificate: A document confirming the absence of a criminal record of a foreign spouse.
4. Documents confirming cohabitation: Joint accounts, lease agreements, photographs, letters from friends and relatives.
5. Medical documents: Medical certificates and certificates are provided if necessary.

Special conditions and exceptions

1. Persons with criminal records: Spouses with criminal records may face additional checks and restrictions.
2. Security and public interests: The Israeli Interior Ministry reserves the right to refuse to grant citizenship for reasons of national security or public interest.
3. Evading military service: Individuals who evade compulsory military service may face additional difficulties during the naturalization process.

Conclusion

The Family Unification Law in Israel is an important mechanism for maintaining family ties and integrating foreign spouses into Israeli society. Passing the naturalization procedure requires careful preparation, sincerity and compliance with all requirements. Successful completion of all stages allows foreign spouses to obtain citizenship and become full members of Israeli society.