Opening a Bank Account in Israel
Population and Immigration Authority | Financial Integration Services
After completing the initial immigration process and receiving your documents at Ben Gurion Airport, new immigrants can begin setting up their financial profile in Israel. This includes opening a bank account and issuing Visa or MasterCard debit and credit cards for local and international transactions — a vital step for integration into Israel’s economic system and for accessing everyday financial services.
How goVisit.today Assistants Help:
- Schedule an appointment with a Russian-speaking bank representative at a convenient time.
- Accompany you through the account opening and compliance procedures.
- Set up access to your online banking and mobile app.
- Assist with activating bank cards and linking them to your accounts.
- Enable automatic payments for your airport-issued SIM card to access Israel’s government portal gov.il.
- Help you request higher credit limits and apply for premium international cards.
New immigrants over the age of 19 may bring up to $10,000 USD in cash and deposit it into their Israeli bank account (subject to individual bank policies).
goVisit.today advisors will recommend a bank that matches your needs and guide you on how to use your account efficiently — including minimizing currency conversion fees and navigating Israel’s banking system.
Why Do New Immigrants Need a Bank Account in Israel?
- To receive absorption basket (Sal Klita) payments from the government.
- For everyday expenses (Russian-issued cards don’t work in Israel).
- To pay utility bills.
- To pay health insurance premiums to Bituach Leumi and other taxes.
- To send or receive money transfers.
- To receive salaries and social benefits.
Credit cards issued in Israel can be used internationally, including for travel bookings, car rentals, and online shopping abroad.
goVisit cooperates with all major banks in Israel, and assistants advise new immigrants on a full range of issues: from opening business accounts to going through the compliance procedure for transferring significant amounts to Israeli banks from other jurisdictions, including Russia and Belarus.
Credit cards issued in Israel have international application! They can be used to pay for purchases in the country as well as services abroad, such as car rental, foreign shopping and travel.
Types of Bank Cards in Israel
Debit Card (כרטיס דביט)
- Real-balance usage: Spend only what's in your account
- Global acceptance: Use worldwide via Visa or MasterCard
- Online-ready: Suitable for secure online payments
Credit Card (כרטיס אשראי)
- Personalized credit limit: Based on your financial status
- Exclusive benefits: Enjoy discounts, promotions, and installment plans
goVisit.today collaborates with major Israeli banks. Whether you’re opening a personal or business account, or transferring large sums from abroad (e.g., Russia or Belarus), our team will guide you through Israel’s financial compliance process.
How to Open a Bank Account: Step-by-Step
1Choose the account type:
- Current account (עו"ש / “Oversch Veshav”) – for daily banking
- Savings account – for earning interest and building financial reserves
2Apply for bank cards:
- Debit and credit cards are typically issued within one week
3Set up online banking:
- Use the bank’s app or website to pay bills, send transfers, and manage your finances conveniently
Need help or have questions?
Contact goVisit.assist consultants — we’ll walk you through every step and help you make the right financial decisions.
We wish you financial success and a smooth start to your life in Israel!
Opening a Bank Account in Israel
Population and Immigration Authority | Financial Integration Services