You’ve probably heard whispers that it’s a bureaucratic nightmare for a non-citizen to buy property in Israel. For most people reading this, that’s simply not true. In fact, it’s surprisingly straightforward, but it all hinges on one key question.
The answer is yes, but the how depends on your background. If you are Jewish and eligible to make Aliyah (the process of immigrating to Israel under the Law of Return), the system treats you exactly like an Israeli citizen. You can buy almost any property without any special hoops to jump through. It’s that simple. The law views you as a returning national, giving you the same rights as someone born here.
What if you aren’t Jewish? You can still absolutely buy property. The key is to understand the two main types of land in Israel. About 93% of the land is “Israel Lands,” owned by the state and managed by the Israel Land Authority (ILA). The other 7% is privately owned. Non-citizens who are not eligible under the Law of Return can freely purchase property built on this private land. Many apartments, especially in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, are on private land.
Buying on state-owned land is also possible for foreigners, but it’s more complex. It usually involves a long-term lease (often for 49 or 98 years) that functions very similarly to full ownership. However, it may require special approval, and the process can be slower.
Regardless of your status, the single most important move you can make is to hire an experienced Israeli real estate lawyer. They will verify the land type, check the property’s registration, and ensure the transaction is legally sound. Don’t even think about doing it without one.
Too Long; Didn’t Read
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Yes, foreigners can buy property in Israel.
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If you’re eligible for Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return, you can buy property just like an Israeli citizen.
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If you’re not eligible, you can freely buy property on “privately owned land,” which is common in major cities.
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Buying on “state-owned land” is also possible but requires more steps. A good lawyer is non-negotiable to navigate the process.
Feeling unsure about your eligibility or the process? Let’s clear it up. DM me at Semerenko Group.
