Understanding eligibility for Bituach Leumi

Bituach Leumi is Israel's national insurance system. It is mainly for residents and people who work and pay in. Understanding where you fit stops you from assuming either too much or too little. WHO IS USUALLY COVERED • Israeli residents and citizens • Employees who legally work in Israel and have contributions deducted • New immigrants (olim), with their own special rules WHO IS USUALLY NOT COVERED Most foreign students on an A/2 visa are not treated as residents for national insurance purposes. That means you do not get the standard health coverage, and you usually do not qualify for allowances. WHAT TO DO • Buy private health insurance for your stay. Your school often arranges it. • If someone tells you that you must register, ask for the reason in writing. • If your status changes (for example, you make aliyah or start legal work), ask the NII or your employer what applies. WATCH OUT FOR Do not sign up for anything without knowing what it costs. Misunderstandings about this are one of the most common beginner mistakes.