The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

All participants must be between 18 and 32 and have finished high school by the time their trip departs. If you are turning 33 prior to May 1 for summer trips, or December 1 for winter trips, you are not eligible to participate in that upcoming round of trips. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

It depends. If you have been to Israel before, but only with your family or on other personal business, you are still eligible if you were there for under 3 months.

• Applicants who traveled to Israel prior to turning 18, on a program designed for high school teens, for a period shorter than three months in length are eligible. Even if you were 18 at the time of the trip, you are eligible, as long as the trip was designed for high school students.
• Applicants who participated in most “High School in Israel” programs for up to a semester are eligible.
• Applicants who traveled to Israel since turning 18 on a family trip, a multi-generational trip, or some interfaith/secular experiences are eligible.
• Applicants who traveled to Israel after turning 18 on programs designed for college students or young adults are not eligible. Programs include University, study abroad, gap year, yeshiva/seminary, internship and any experience under the umbrella of Onward Israel or Masa Israel.

Volunteering on programs such as Magen David Adom, participating in the Maccabiah games and/or traveling with multi-generational and family Federation missions* will not affect your eligibility as long as you were in Israel with these programs for under 3 months. *Does not include Young Professional Federation missions

Unsure about your eligibility? Please contact us at underreview@birthrightisrael.com.

It depends - If you are an Israeli citizen, you are only eligible if you never lived in Israel or left before the age of 12 (official documentation will be required). If you are accepted to the program, you will need to obtain army exemption papers from your local Israeli consulate.

If you have served in the Israeli Army or volunteered on an Israel Army base after the age of 18, you are not eligible.

Not while you are in the program. Students in exclusively Jewish Studies programs in any institute of higher learning, including Jewish teacher training programs, Jewish Studies Programs (not including Jewish Studies major or minor candidates at secular institutions), rabbinical programs, yeshivot/seminaries, Jewish communal service programs and the like are not eligible for the Birthright Israel gift while they are still in the study program.

Birthright Israel does not inquire about the political views of its applicants and welcomes all Jewish young adults from around the globe to visit Israel.

You will be part of a group of 40 participants, two local staff members, or madrichim, who fly with the group to Israel, one Israeli tour educator, and an Israeli medic/security guard. The bus driver is part of the team, too!

Each trip has a unique itinerary based on your travel dates, interests, and many other factors but all include the must do sites. We focus on key landmarks of historical and nationals sites, contemporary arts, culture, technology and environmental initiatives and Jewish values such as social justice, community and Shabbat. 

Browse the sample itinerary for a sneak peek of the journey ahead.

Trip Organizers are tour companies that have been accredited by Birthright Israel to run trips. Each has a unique approach and perspective on how to introduce and show Israel to you. At the same time, there is a core program with several themes that are common to all trips.

Birthright Israel works with Trip Organizers to provide the gift of a free trip to Israel. Birthright Israel coordinates all air travel, sets high educational and quality standards, procedural guidelines, security policies for all programs and performs extensive quality control reviews of every trip. The trip is developed and implemented by individual Trip Organizers that Birthright Israel puts through a rigorous approval process.

Every trip includes a multi-day Mifgash (encounter) with your Israeli peers. A key component of the trip is meeting and touring with Israelis of the same age, many of whom are serving in the Israel Defense Forces. This is an opportunity to get to know Israel through its people. Together, you and the Israelis explore your views about personal, religious, and political identities and ideologies. You will also learn about what it means to serve the country and to defend the Jewish people.

Local community trips give you the option to travel with members of your local Jewish community, such as people from your town or city.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

Every round there are a number of Accessibility trips offered, with not all programs offered each round of trips. These include, but are not limited to, trips for those with medical, developmental, and physical disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), vision or hearing impairments, IBD and Crohn’s Disease, individuals who use wheelchairs, and others. These trips can be viewed by clicking on “find a trip” and selecting “Accessibility Trips.” Additionally, there may be opportunities for inclusion, where an individual with a disability may be integrated into a traditional Birthright Israel trip where possible, such as through the assistance of an aide. Individuals with disabilities should discuss their disabilities thoroughly with the Trip Organizer, which will allow the Trip Organizer to assess if inclusion options are available, prior to accepting participation onto a trip. The Trip Organizer can provide more information on the trip, including the itinerary.

Our Trip Organizers represent a variety of religious movements and Zionist ideologies. All Birthright Israel programs will provide opportunities for participants to celebrate Jewish life together. Asking a trip organizer some key questions like "How will Shabbat be observed?" will help ensure that the program you are choosing is right for you.

Participants will be expected to participate in extensive tours of the country, which may include walking long distances, climbing, hiking, swimming, and other strenuous activities. The program in Israel is very demanding, requiring participation in an average of 15 hours of programming daily, often including physically strenuous activities. All participants should be able to fully participate in the demanding itinerary including early wake-ups and late nights.

Meeting and connecting with your peers is a big part of the Birthright Israel experience. As such, you will be living in a communal environment. Single Sex Rooming is the standard across Birthright Israel trips. We acknowledge this arrangement may not be preferred by all participants, but have kept it in order for the most number of participants to feel comfortable. Meals are held in communal dining facilities. You will sleep in a dormitory or share living quarters with many other people and eat in communal dining facilities. You will share transportation (a tour bus) with up to 50 other people.

Medical care will very often be entrusted to fully trained paramedical personnel, although a doctor is always available and on call, as are local hospitals. In extreme situations, participants will be transferred to another city for specialized medical treatment when necessary and, where indicated, will later be returned to the country of origin for further treatment. You are responsible for having personal medical insurance coverage, which should be valid in Israel throughout the period covered by the trip. (If you do not have medical insurance and are purchasing travel/medical insurance for the sole purpose of this trip, you may want to consider supplementary coverage for continuation of treatment/care in your home country if required when you return home.)

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

No. The Birthright Israel trip begins when you meet your group at the airport prior to your departure. You must travel to Israel with your group, and you may not leave prior to your group’s departure date and meet your group in Israel. You may, however, extend your stay after your trip is over.

Birthright Israel will make every effort to put you on the next available flight departing from the original gateway city of departure and on the same airline, provided that it will arrive in Israel no more than 24 hours after the original missed flight. Rebooking a flight is based on airline availability and departure schedule and cannot be guaranteed.

Most U.S. trips depart from New York area airports unless otherwise indicated. Canadian trips depart from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

Drinking alcohol is permitted only under certain conditions. In order to ensure the safety of all participants and staff, we strictly enforce our alcohol policy.

Air Canada: In Tel Aviv: 03-6072111. Hours of operation Sun-Thu 8:30AM-5PM Israel time

Austrian: In Tel Aviv: 03-9058049 Sun-Thu 9AM-5PM Israel time.

Brussels Airline: Email Israel@brusselsairlines.com or call 03 5185262 Sun-Thu 10AM-1PM Israel time, ask for Assaf or Tanya.

Delta: In Tel Aviv 03 5138000 ext 3. Hours of operation Sun-Thu 9AM-5PM Israel time.

EL AL Israel Airlines: In Tel Aviv 03 977 1111, 24 hours.

Iberia: Email request more than 3 business days before confirmed group departure Taglit.ib@ba.com or contact in Tel Aviv 03-6061555 9AM-5PM Sun-Thu.

Lufthansa: In Tel Aviv: 03-9058049 Sun-Thu 9AM-5PM Israel time.

Swissair: In Tel Aviv: 03 5139000 Sun-Thu 9AM -5PM Israel time.

United Airlines: In Tel Aviv 03-5116777. Hours of operation Sun-Thu 8:30AM-5PM Israel time.

Birthright Israel has a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment of any kind and promotes a communal space of physical and emotional safety.

Birthright Israel is a unique, historical partnership between the people of Israel through their government, local Jewish communities (North American Jewish Federations, Keren Hayesod, and The Jewish Agency for Israel), and leading Jewish philanthropists. Birthright Israel provides a gift of peer-group, educational trips to Israel for Jewish young adults ages 18 to 26. (Those applying from the UK must be between 19 and 26 years of age.)

We now also offer the trip 27-32 year olds with very limited availability.

Birthright Israel's founders created this program to send young Jewish adults from all over the world to Israel as a gift in order to diminish the growing division between Israel and Jewish communities around the world, to strengthen the sense of solidarity between Israeli youth and Jewish communities throughout the world, and to promote the idea of a trip to Israel for all Diaspora Jews as a critical part of Jewish life outside of Israel.

As a participant, you will travel throughout the country, exploring sites of historic, cultural, and religious significance, hiking and taking in Israel’s varied landscape and nature. Additionally, Israeli peers will join you for a significant part of the trip, introducing you to popular culture, music, and food and what it’s like to live in Israel—and maybe even becoming lifelong friends.

The Birthright Israel gift covers round trip airfare (from designated cities), hotel accommodations, transportation, at least two meals per day, and other associated land costs (such as admission to sites) for 10-day trips to Israel offered by approved Trip Organizers. Gratuities, personal purchases, and travel/medical insurance are not included.

There is no catch, no strings attached! You are only responsible for a deposit, which is fully refundable upon your return home after successfully completing the program. You are under no obligation to Birthright Israel, which finances the trip, or your Trip Organizer, which runs the trip, for any future activities or financial obligations. Of course, should you decide to become more involved in the Jewish community, go back to Israel, or explore other aspects of Jewish life, we encourage you to check out the rest of our website as well as social media for resources and more information. For full details about expectations from our participants, please see the Participant Waiver.

Trip Organizers are tour companies that have been accredited by Birthright Israel to run trips. Each has a unique approach and perspective on how to introduce and show Israel to you. At the same time, there is a core program with several themes that are common to all trips.

Over 650,000 young adults from all over the world have been to Israel on Birthright Israel trips. Our participants hail from 66 countries and every continent except Antarctica. They come from all Jewish religious backgrounds and degrees of travel experience. All return from Israel with a new understanding and appreciation for the people of Israel and the country, as well as new friends and special memories.

Our alumni have many nice things to say about how the trips impacted them in a variety of ways. In addition, independent research conducted by Brandeis University's confirms this. For more information, see our Research page.

No, sorry. While we love to hear about couples who met on their trip (There are more than just a few of them!), Birthright Israel does not give, and has not given in the past, free honeymoons to couples who meet on our trips.

Birthright Israel Excel is an elite 10-week summer fellowship program in Israel and subsequent business development network for college students and graduating seniors who are pursuing careers in business and/or technology. It is run separately from the Birthright Israel 10-day trip to Israel. 

You can find out more on the Birthright Israel Excel website. You may apply to both Birthright Israel and Birthright Israel Excel. However, if you are accepted to both you must participate on the Birthright Israel trip before the departure of the Birthright Israel Excel Fellowship. Once you have participated in the Birthright Israel Excel Fellowship program, you are no longer eligible for a Birthright Israel trip.

If you still have questions that we haven't answered, or any of the above isn't clear, all you need to do is ask. Learn more here or just email us at information@birthrightisrael.com, and we will be glad to help.

Birthright Israel is funded through partnerships with the Government of Israel, the Jewish Federations of North America, the Jewish Agency for Israel and Keren Hayesod as well as philanthropists around the world. In the US, Birthright Israel Foundation raises the necessary funds thanks to 30,000+ donors each year, to ensure that Birthright Israel remains a gift to young Jewish adults for years to come.

To make a donation in support of Birthright Israel, please click here.

Every round there are a number of Accessibility trips offered, with not all programs offered each round of trips. These include, but are not limited to, trips for those with medical, developmental, and physical disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), vision or hearing impairments, IBD and Crohn’s Disease, individuals who use wheelchairs, and others. These trips can be viewed by clicking on “find a trip” and selecting “Accessibility Trips.” Additionally, there may be opportunities for inclusion, where an individual with a disability may be integrated into a traditional Birthright Israel trip where possible, such as through the assistance of an aide. Individuals with disabilities should discuss their disabilities thoroughly with the Trip Organizer, which will allow the Trip Organizer to assess if inclusion options are available, prior to accepting participation onto a trip. The Trip Organizer can provide more information on the trip, including the itinerary.

Every round there are a number of Accessibility trips offered, with not all programs offered each round of trips. These include, but are not limited to, trips for those with medical, developmental, and physical disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), vision or hearing impairments, IBD and Crohn’s Disease, individuals who use wheelchairs, and others. These trips can be viewed by clicking on “find a trip” and selecting “Accessibility Trips.” Additionally, there may be opportunities for inclusion, where an individual with a disability may be integrated into a traditional Birthright Israel trip where possible, such as through the assistance of an aide. Individuals with disabilities should discuss their disabilities thoroughly with the Trip Organizer, which will allow the Trip Organizer to assess if inclusion options are available, prior to accepting participation onto a trip. The Trip Organizer can provide more information on the trip, including the itinerary.

These trips can be viewed by clicking on “find a trip” and selecting “Accessibility Trips“.

hotline phone number: 1-888-994-7723
Email address: information@birthrightisrael.com

Absolutely! When it comes to security, we know that Israel is often in the news. However, the safety and well-being of our Birthright Israel participants is our primary operating principle and our foremost concern. In addition to the Israeli government's strict security measures taken to guard public places, we take additional precautions to ensure participant safety. We do not hesitate to make any and all changes to our itineraries as needed.

Absolutely. Birthright Israel is a supervised program where you travel together as a group. All trips are accompanied by a tour educator, two staff members, and at least one trained security guard and medic. When needed, additional security will be provided.

No. Birthright Israel is a supervised program where you travel together as a group. All trips are accompanied by a tour educator, two staff members, and at least one trained security guard and medic. When needed, additional security will be provided.

Yes. Birthright Israel is a fully supervised program where you travel together as a group. All trips are accompanied by a tour educator, two staff members, and at least one trained security guard and medic. When needed, additional security will be provided.

You will travel together as a group by bus. All trips, tour bus companies, and drivers are subject to Birthright Israel’s strict standards.

No. You will travel together as a group by bus. All trips, tour bus companies, and drivers are subject to Birthright Israel’s strict standards.

Absolutely. Birthright Israel works with several international airlines in order to safely bring you to Israel. The airlines we work with are all accredited members of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and operate within the guidelines of their Operational Safety Audit.

No! The safety and well-being of our Birthright Israel participants is our primary operating principle and our foremost concern. We provide for over 50,000 participants annually and have a well-deserved reputation for being exceedingly cautious and conservative. While operating for over 17 years, we have brought over 600,000 participants to Israel with no security issues.

Yes. While trips are running, Birthright Israel operates an information line that is available weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm EST. After office hours, we have an emergency answering service to ensure that you can be reached if needed. We are always available via email at information@birthrightisrael.com or telephone at +1-888-99-ISRAEL (+1-888-994-7723) should you have further questions. Your Trip Organizer will also provide you and your family with additional contact information. Additionally, you may choose, as many participants do, to bring your own phone with an international calling and data plan.

While trips are running, Birthright Israel operates an information line that is available weekdays, 9 am to 5 pm EST. After office hours, we have an emergency answering service to ensure that you can be reached if needed. We are always available via email at information@birthrightisrael.com or telephone at +1-888-99-ISRAEL (+1-888-994-7723) should you have further questions. Your Trip Organizer will also provide you and your family with additional contact information.

Yes. Trip itineraries are approved daily with the "Situation Monitoring Room," administered by the Israel Ministry of Education and coordinated with the Israel Defense Forces, Israel Police, and other security authorities. Each group carries a GPS (Global Positioning System) so that authorities are aware of each group's location at all times. If at any time a friction area is identified, that area is restricted for Birthright Israel groups. In addition to the Israeli government's strict security measures taken to guard public places, we take additional precautions to ensure participant safety. We do not hesitate to make any and all changes to our itineraries as needed.

No. The best way to ensure your personal safety while on your Birthright Israel trip is to stay with your group and follow directions at all times. Birthright Israel and your Trip Organizer have vast experience running trips, keeping participants safe, and making changes to the itinerary if necessary.

Deposits are paid, handled, and refunded through PayPal. All deposits are subject to an additional $10 USD non-refundable handling fee.

Each participant must pay a deposit, which can be fully refunded or donated afterwards. The deposit is up to US$250, depending on which country you are from. This deposit serves a few purposes. During the application process, it lets us know that you are serious about participating in the program. Once you are accepted, it serves as a guarantee that you will not cancel at the last minute, which would prevent another person from benefiting from the opportunity to go to Israel. Moreover, the deposit helps cover any fees and penalties that may be incurred by the airlines if you cancel your trip late. The deposit also helps guarantee that you follow Birthright Israel safety and behavior standards. In extreme cases in which participants violate these guidelines, their deposit may be confiscated.

If you are accepted to a trip and cancel prior to 65 days before your confirmed flight departure or are not accepted to participate in a program this round, your deposit will be refunded via your original method of payment. In order to receive this refund, you must submit a written request to your Trip Organizer directly. Should you not make this request, your deposit will remain with us throughout the season and will then be available for you to use for the next round of Birthright Israel trips. After you successfully participate in a Birthright Israel trip, you may voluntarily donate all or part of your deposit in order to sponsor future Birthright Israel trips. 

If you are from the United States or Canada, approximately five days after you successfully complete your trip, you will be notified by email that your deposit is available to be refunded. That email may also contain information about how you can voluntarily donate all or part of your deposit in support of future Birthright Israel trips. Note that your deposit will be used to benefit future Birthright Israel participants if it is not retrieved within 30 days of your return. 

If you are not from the United States or Canada, you may choose to retrieve your deposit by contacting your local Birthright Israel representative within 30 days after your trip. Please note: In many countries deposits are charged in U.S. dollars and therefore are converted from your local currency to U.S. dollars on your credit card statements. Since they are converted using the daily U.S. dollar rate and are refunded using the daily rate on the day the refund is processed, variances often occur.

If you were not offered a trip this round, you are automatically placed on a waitlist until the end of the session. If you would like to be taken off the waitlist and get your deposit back, please send a refund request IN WRITING via email directly to the Trip Organizer you applied with. Contact information for all Trip Organizers and Community Partners worldwide can be found here. It will take between 7 and 10 days for the refund to appear via your original method of payment.

If you are from the United States or Canada, approximately five days after you successfully completed your trip, you were sent an email telling you that your deposit is available to be refunded. You will need to use the email address and password you used for your original Birthright Israel application in order to log in and verify that you were a participant on a recent trip. If you do not remember the email address you used to register, please contact us at information@birthrightisrael.com. Retrieve your deposit by clicking here. If you are not from the United States or Canada, you may choose to retrieve your deposit by contacting your local Birthright Israel representative within 30 days after returning from your trip here.

PayPal accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. You can also debit from your bank account as well as use your PayPal account if you have sufficient balance to cover the deposit.

No. Deposits are paid and handled through PayPal which does not accept cash or checks.

Absolutely. All deposits are paid, handled, and refunded PayPal which is completely secure.

Deposits are paid, handled, and refunded through the secure online payment system. Using credit cards and credit/debit cards. For deposit issues from the United States and Canada, please send an email to information@birthrightisrael.com with the word DEPOSIT in the subject line and explain what the issue is. If you are not from the United States or Canada, you should contact your local Birthright Israel representative.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

Airline tickets are issued based on the first, middle, and last name with which you registered. Your FULL name with which you registered must be identical to that on your passport. Should there be any discrepancy, the airline has the right to deny you passage or charge for reissuance of your ticket. In either case, you may forfeit your deposit. If you entered your name incorrectly or incompletely, please send us an email at info@birthrightisrael.com.

Birthright Israel works with Trip Organizers to provide the gift of a free trip to Israel. Birthright Israel coordinates all air travel, sets high educational and quality standards, procedural guidelines, security policies for all programs and performs extensive quality control reviews of every trip. The trip is developed and implemented by individual Trip Organizers that Birthright Israel puts through a rigorous approval process.

Registration is now open. Save your spot now to get ahead in line.

It’s easy! First use FIND A TRIP to pick a trip based on your age, desired travel date, interests, and more. Alternatively, if you know which Trip Organizer you’d like to travel with, you can sort to see and select one of their trips. Then fill out the online application, which collects your contact information and includes questions that are used to determine your eligibility. Once all sections of your application are complete, sit back, relax, and be patient—within three weeks your Trip Organizer will contact you to finalize your application.

No. All applications received during the first 24 hours after general registration opens are given equal priority; we do not operate on a “first-come, first-served” basis.

By registering using Facebook, you don't have to remember a password or which email you used to begin your application All you need is your Facebook login credentials!

Yes, you can continue to apply for each new round of Birthright Israel trips as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Please note: Applications do not carry over from season to season. If you would like to register for a future round, please make sure to submit an application when registration for that round opens.

Yes. There are trips to Israel every winter and summer season. Check our website and Facebook page for updates.

If you cancel your trip within 65 days of your confirmed flight departure, you will forfeit the security deposit.

Yes! No one can travel to Israel without a valid passport. If you do not hold a U.S. or Canadian passport, you may need a visa or face other restrictions. Please contact your closest Israeli consulate for more information. If you do not already have a passport, you should begin the process to obtain a passport as soon as possible. You will be required to provide your Trip Organizer with your passport number and a photocopy of your passport prior to Birthright Israel issuing your flight ticket. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your last day in Israel. If you realize after the cancellation deadline and after being assigned to a flight that this is not the case, your Trip Organizer may cancel your trip without refunding your deposit if you are unable to obtain a new passport in a designated amount of time before the trip.

If you are not traveling on a U.S. or Canadian passport, you may require a visa to travel to Israel. Connecting flights and flights with short stopovers sometimes require visas. It is your responsibility to check if you will need a visa before traveling.

Yes. It is mandatory for all Birthright Israel participants to have health insurance that is valid in Israel for the duration of the trip. If you already have extended health coverage, or you purchase a plan for this trip, you will be required to submit this information to your Trip Organizer. This will include the name of the insurance company, policy number, and the company’s contact information. If you plan to extend your trip, you will want to ensure that it is covered for that time period as well. If you do not have medical insurance and are purchasing insurance for the sole purpose of this trip, you may want to consider supplementary coverage for continuation of treatment/care in your home country if required when you return home. While your Trip Organizer will provide basic travelers’ health insurance while you are in Israel (which is secondary to your personal coverage), it does NOT cover medical care for preexisting conditions, medical evacuation, coverage when you return home if needed, travel to and from Israel, lost or stolen items, trip cancellation on your part due to emergency, and so on. 

Most people are aware of the benefits of health insurance; however, you must also have travel insurance, which can cover the cost of lost/stolen baggage, cameras, phones, and so on. In addition, if you are booking a connecting domestic flight, this may cover your costs should your flight be cancelled or delayed due to bad weather or other circumstances. If you are not currently covered by an existing policy, you have complete freedom of choice as to the company from which you purchase this insurance, but you MUST ensure that you have coverage, or you will not be permitted to join the program.

No, you have only taken the first step toward your free trip to Israel. There are a few more steps. In order to complete your application, you will need to fill out all sections of the online application form. IMPORTANT: Your application will not be processed unless you complete all sections and accept the terms and conditions of the waiver.

Once you’ve filled out all the sections of the application, if there is any information that you wish to update or change, you may access your application until the registration deadline for that season. Keep in mind that any changes you make will be what Birthright Israel considers your final application. Now sit back, relax, and be patient! The Trip Organizers will contact you as soon as we have an available trip to offer you.

Please log back into your application using the following links: For applicants from the U.S. or Canada, click here. For applicants from other countries, click here.

You will need to use the password you created when you started your application. This may not be the same password you used for any secondary applications through your Trip Organizer. If you cannot remember your password please use the “Forgot?” password link located on the Login Page. 

In order to update your application, use the following links: For applicants from the U.S. or Canada, click here. For applicants from other countries, click here. Enter your email and password to access your application form. The MY TRIP section shows you which trip you are currently registered for and provides a link for you to change it should you wish to do so. Please note: If you change your Trip Organizer, you will need to choose a new trip as well.

The only way for friends (or groups of people) to be on the same program is to apply for the same trip. You can invite friends to join you on your trip by using your personal “Bring a Friend” referral link and sharing it with them by email or on social media. Find your link in the MY TRIP section of your application. Birthright Israel cannot guarantee that any one person or group of individuals will be selected. However, applying for the same trip can ensure that you and your friends get to travel together if all of you are selected.

In order to update your application, you will need to use the same email address that you used to register. For applicants from the U.S. or Canada, click here. For applicants from other countries, click here.

Should you decide to forfeit your return ticket, you must contact the airline before your scheduled return date. If you fail to do so and are a no-show for the scheduled departure, you will forfeit the deposit held for your trip.

In North America, Birthright Israel is the umbrella organization that funds the gift and accredits individual Trip Organizers to run Birthright Israel-approved programs and sets down the basic guidelines, standards and security policies by which Trip Organizers must operate. There are over ten Birthright Israel-accredited Trip Organizers running programs this session from North America. You are encouraged to choose the program that best suits the type of experience you're looking for. For more information on Birthright Israel-approved Trip Organizers, please visit the Trip Organizers page. If you are not from the United States or Canada, upon beginning the registration process, you will be directed to the appropriate selection of trip organizers or the local community partner serving your country or region.

Each Trip Organizer has a unique approach and perspective on how to introduce and show Israel to you. At the same time, they have all been accredited by Birthright Israel, and they all follow the core program, which focuses on three main areas: the Narratives of the Jewish People, Contemporary Israel, and Ideas and Formative Values of Judaism.

No. We wish we could bring you back, but this gift is only available to each person once.

Anyone who meets general Birthright Israel eligibility requirements and has a GPA of at least 3.0.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, ages 18 to 32 who have not participated on an educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12. Those applying from the UK must be 19-32 years of age.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination. 

PLEASE NOTE: Those applying for trips leaving from the Former Soviet Union are eligible if they have at least one Jewish birth grandparent. The accuracy of information pertaining to the heritage of an applicant for a trip leaving from the Former Soviet Union is also verified by a local Consul before an applicant is considered eligible.

Yes. Birthright Israel Study Abroad combines elements of the classic Birthright Israel trip with a hands-on, experiential academic course. It’s important to us that you encounter Israel from many different angles, including its nature, people, and culture, in addition to getting a meaningful academic experience. We invite you to take a look at the sample itineraries to get an idea of what a Birthright Israel Study Abroad program includes.

The process of transferring credits differs according to each university’s policy, and is the student’s responsibility. We strongly suggest that you be in touch with your academic advisor or study abroad office before committing to this program if you are interested in transferring credits. 

Your Trip Organizer will provide you with a full packet, which includes the syllabus, faculty bios, and more information that can help you get the course and credits approved. If you need any other information or documentation, we’re here to help!

While these are serious, high-level academic courses, it’s just as important for us that they be interesting and engaging and that you also get to experience the many other facets of Israel, including its nature, people, and culture and lifestyle. Birthright Israel combines high learning standards with well-rounded hands-on experiences. 

When you sign up, you’ll receive a syllabus outlining the assignments and required reading, and you’ll be expected to submit a final paper upon your return home.

No. We didn’t bring you all the way to Israel to sit in a classroom! While some classes will be taught on campus, we believe in experiential learning and in turning Israel’s special landscape and offerings (sites, organizations, and people) into your classroom. The courses we choose have a hands-on aspect that is unique to Israel and cannot be taught only by sitting in a traditional academic environment.

Absolutely. The course is a great opportunity for you to learn and see Israel through a lens of one of your interests and to enrich your resume. All participants who finish the course will receive a certificate, so even if you don’t get college credits for it, this is a great professional experience opportunity to add to your resume.

The Birthright Israel gift is open to all Jewish* young adults, and has now been expanded to include those 27 to 32 years of age, who have not participated on a peer educational trip since they turned 18 nor lived in Israel past the age of 12.

*Eligible individuals are those who identify as Jewish and are recognized as such by their local community or by one of the recognized denominations of Judaism. Applicants must also have at least one Jewish birth parent, or have completed Jewish conversion through a recognized Jewish denomination.

You sure are. If you are still 32 years old by the time the summer round begins (May 1st), you are eligible for a summer trip, even if you turn 33 during the round.
If you turn 33 before the summer round begins (May 1st) you are, unfortunately, ineligible.

You sure are. If you are still 32 years old by the time the winter round begins (December 1st), you are eligible for a winter trip, even if you turn 33 during the round.
If you turn 33 before the winter round begins (December 1st) you are, unfortunately, ineligible.

Unfortunately you are not eligible for the 27-32 program. But you are in luck! You are still eligible for the 18-26 program. Sign up for one today.

Unfortunately you are not eligible for the 27-32 program. But you are in luck! You are still eligible for the 18-26 program. Sign up today.

Yes we do. We realize that while this a chance you don't want to miss, you have work, school, family and other commitments as well. Therefore, we offer 7 day trips, which are as fun, eye-opening, rich and informative as the original 10 day classic trips.

You sure can. Just as long as you haven't been in Israel after your 18th birthday on an educational program. For further information on eligibility – click here on the Eligibility Link

If your significant other is deemed eligible as well, you will be able to travel together.
Please note – spots are very limited, so sign up today to secure spots for the both of you.

Just like other Birthright Israel trips, you will have to submit a deposit, when completing your application. For additional information please click on the deposit link 
Please note - we might charge a fee in future rounds

Primarily, this trip will differ in that– the group will include only participants that are between 27 to 32 years old. The trip will include the same successful concepts and highlights as the classic program with adjustments for this age group.