IDF Service For Olim

IDF Service For Olim

IDF SERVICE FOR OLIM


Enlisting in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is mandatory for all Israeli citizens of a certain age, for both men and women.

Who is obligated to serve?

Olim from age 18 may be drafted, depending on various factors such as medical health and physical fitness. Marital status also affects the obligation to serve.

What's the duration of service?

Men

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Men

Age Upon Aliyah Single Married Married with children
Up to age 19 32 Months 32 Months Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months
20-21 24 Months 24 Months Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months
22-27 Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months    
28+ Exempt – considered too old to serve and ineligible to volunteer    

Women

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Women:

Age Upon Aliyah Single Married Married with children
Up to age 19 24 Months Exempt, but can volunteer
for 24 months		 Exempt
20-21 24 Months Exempt, but can volunteer
for 24 months		 Exempt
22-27 Exempt, but can volunteer
for 18 months		 Exempt Exempt
28+ Exempt – considered too old to serve and ineligible to volunteer    

Single or Married Women (ages 18-19 or 20-21) in certain roles (combat roles, for example), may be required to extend their service to 32 months. Important Note: There are exceptions to the information above. If you have postponed your IDF service, received a deferment, or made Aliyah after having an A1 visa for a few years – the IDF may draft you for compulsory service despite being over 21.

When do Olim actually begin their service?

The IDF understands that it takes time for Olim to adapt to living in Israel. Therefore, the IDF allows Olim one year to adapt to living in Israel before enlisting.

Some Olim decide to enlist into the IDF before that one year period is over. This is an option, although not required.

Voluntary Enlistment

If you wish to enlist in the IDF, including during your first year of Aliyah, contact the IDF Meitav Overseas Recruitment Department for instructions, via whatsapp at 052-945-8579, email joinidf@mail.idf.il, or phone at 03-7387080.