Israel's Social Safety Net
ביטוח לאומי (Bituach Leumi) is the National Insurance Institute of Israel — the government body that administers most of Israel's social welfare programs. Every Israeli resident contributes, and in return, Bituach Leumi provides a comprehensive safety net covering everything from retirement to work injuries.
As a new oleh, you become part of this system from the moment you register your residency. Understanding what you're covered for — and from when — is essential for your financial planning.
The Full Coverage Map
Old-Age Pension (Kitzvat Zikna)
The state pension is paid to men from age 70 and women from age 62-65 (gradually rising). The amount depends on your contribution history in Israel. As a new oleh, your Israeli pension will initially be small — but it compounds over your working years here. Most olim supplement this with their private pension (keren pensia) and any foreign pension entitlements.
Child Allowances (Kitzvat Yeladim)
Every child under 18 living in Israel is entitled to a monthly child allowance, regardless of family income. In 2025, the rate is approximately 190 NIS per child per month for the first three children, with higher amounts for larger families. Payments are deposited directly to your bank account — no application needed after initial registration of your children.
Maternity and Paternity Benefits (Dmei Leida)
Working mothers receive maternity pay for the duration of their maternity leave (a minimum of 15 weeks, and up to 26 weeks paid for parents who share leave). The benefit replaces up to 100% of average income based on your last three months of salary. Fathers can also take paid paternity leave. Importantly, you must have worked and contributed for a qualifying period before the birth — typically 10 months in the preceding 14 months.
Work Injury Insurance (Nifga BaAvoda)
If you're injured at work or travelling to/from work, Bituach Leumi covers your medical treatment and replaces your lost income during recovery. This applies from your first day of employment, with no waiting period.
Disability Benefits (Nechut)
If illness or injury prevents you from working, Bituach Leumi provides disability allowances based on your degree of incapacity and contribution history. This is separate from any private disability insurance your employer may provide.
Unemployment Benefits (Dmei Avtalah)
If you lose your job involuntarily, you may qualify for unemployment benefits for up to 175 days. You must have worked and contributed for at least 12 months in the previous 18 months before becoming unemployed.
Survival Benefits (Gimal)
In the event of a breadwinner's death, Bituach Leumi pays survivor allowances to the spouse and dependent children. The amounts depend on the deceased's contribution history.
When Does Coverage Begin?
Most Bituach Leumi benefits begin once you establish Israeli residency. However, some benefits have qualifying contribution periods:
- Child allowances: begin after child registration, no waiting period
- Work injury: from your first day of employment
- Maternity pay: requires 10 months of contributions in prior 14 months
- Unemployment: requires 12 months of contributions in prior 18 months
- Old-age pension: accumulates over your entire working career in Israel
Registering with Bituach Leumi
New olim should register with Bituach Leumi shortly after arriving. Visit the nearest branch with your Teudat Oleh and Teudat Zehut. If you're employed, your employer handles registration and contributions for you. If you're self-employed or not working, you must register independently.