Accommodation in Israel

Volunteers should arrive in Israel about 2 1/2 months before the planned enlistment date.

You may arrive also about 5-6 weeks before enlistment, but only after advance coordination with the MoD; however, if any unexpected problem surfaces such as strikes or with your documents, you risk missing your planned enlistment date and will have to wait for the next one.

All government offices you need prior enlistment are in Tel Aviv; any place in the triange formed by Jerusalem-Hadera-Ashkelon is "near" Tel Aviv, so that's the optimal place to be in that period.

There are various Beit Hachayal (Soldiers' Hostels) with free accomodation and board for recognized Lone Soldiers (Chayalim Bodedim) without immediate family in Israel - for the 6 weeks before enlistment, during the IDF service (when on leave) and 30 days following discharge.

You are eligible for Beit Hachayal and more benefits only after your mobilization order (Tsav Giyus) and your recognition as Lone Soldier (Chayal Boded), both from the IDF Recruitment Bureau (Lishkat Giyus). Note: you must make your own accommodation and board arrangements for the time before getting Lone Soldier status; please check the Sar-El program for the period before enlistment, it includes free accommodation and board.

If you you have immediate family in Israel and thus are not eligible for being a Lone Soldier, you must make your own accommodation and board arrangements for the time before enlistment; please check the Sar-El program for the period before enlistment, it includes free accommodation and board.

Alternatively, please check Israel Youth Hostels with quite low rates (including breakfast). Members of Hosteling International get a discount.

Renting an apartment in Israel: check out Flat Hunting or google similar services.

The IDF will provide for your accomodation, board and actually all your needs once you are enlisted.