Formal requirements
B5 Visa – Investment Visa
The B5 Visa allows U.S. citizens and their essential employees to reside and work in Israel temporarily for the purpose of managing and developing a business venture. This visa is initially issued for two years and can be renewed.
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a significant investment in Israel and a plan to create a business that contributes to the local economy. While no specific investment amount is stipulated, the visa requires the investor to hold at least 50% ownership of a business that employs Israeli citizens, or have an operative control of the business venture through a directional/managerial business capacity or through other corporate means
Key Requirements for B5 Visa
The business must employ Israeli citizens alongside foreign workers.
Senior managers and essential employees may qualify under the B5-1 category.
The applicant must prove that the business will generate sufficient revenue to sustain both the investor and their family while benefiting Israel’s economy.
The visa is initially granted for two years and can be extended annually. Under certain conditions, it may be extended beyond five years if the business remains operational.
On the application, the applicant needs to declare that they are not prohibited from entering Israel and that they have not spent time there illegally in the past. In addition, the applicant must attach a certified Federal Certificate of Good Conduct.
Other investment opportunities
B1 Visa – Work Visa
This visa is for foreign citizens who have secured employment with an Israeli organization. The B1 Visa allows individuals to work in Israel for a limited period (up to 63 months from the date of his first entry into Israel) and requires approval from the Ministry of the Interior.
There is a special B1 category for foreign experts, initially granted for up to one year, with the possibility of extension up to five years. Experts, artists, and other specialized professionals may qualify under this category.
The application process involves the employer first securing a work permit for the applicant from the Ministry of the Interior. Once the permit is approved, the foreign citizen may apply for the visa.
Required Documents for B1 Visa (per NY Embassy guidelines)
Application for entry visa to Israel.
Certificate of Good Conduct issued in the previous year, with apostille authentication.
Medical test results from a recognized clinic/hospital in the three months prior to the submission of the application (including tuberculosis, hepatitis, syphilis, gonorrhea, AIDS, and standard blood tests).
Declaration of fingerprint submission and photograph.
Birth certificate with apostille authentication and translated.
Three recent bank statements demonstrating financial means
Passport valid for at least two years (three years for caregivers).
Two recent duplicate passport photos (color against a white background, 5X5 cm).
Criminal clearance certificate valid for 6 months (translated and certified).
Certificate of eligibility from the Jewish Agency/Nativ Liaison Bureau (for persons eligible under the Law of Return only).
Further Information
For more details, applicants should consult the Israeli Population and Immigration Authority’s official visa regulations.
Document link: Population and Immigration Authority
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The material provided on this page is for information purposes only, as immigration policies are frequently subject to review and change, with each case being unique. We therefore strongly recommend contacting the law firm listed on this page for the latest, most accurate guidance and advice in respect of this jurisdiction.