IDF (Israel Defense Forces) — Length of military service for Olim (men and women)
Source: https://www.nbn.org.il/nbnlsp/army-service-length-of-service-for-men-and-women · 2026
Important Update: IDF regulations for length of service are subject to change. Always check the most current information at: https://www.mitgaisim.idf.il and contact [email protected] with questions about your Age of Arrival and length of service.
Age of Arrival — What It Means
Length of service for Olim is determined by their “Age of Arrival” — defined as the Oleh’s age on the date they began a significant stay in Israel. This is not necessarily the date of Aliyah.
Age of Arrival is determined by entries and exits to Israel and the length of each stay. To verify this, request a Berur Knisot V’Yitziot Meha’aretz (בירור כניסות ויציאות מהארץ) — a report of entries/exits — from the Israel Ministry of Interior.
These guidelines apply only to Olim (Olim Chadashim, Bnei Mehagrim, Ezrachim Olim, Ktinim Chozrim).
Guidelines for Determining Age of Arrival
- Minimal prior visits (up to 120 days/calendar year): Age of Arrival = Aliyah date.
- Stayed in Israel for one year (recognized or non-recognized program) then chose to stay: Age of Arrival = date of first entry into Israel.
- Completed a one-year Masa (Jewish Agency-recognized) program, then left for at least 12 months: Age of Arrival = date of return. (May visit up to 120 days/year during the 12-month away period, with a clean 60-day break after program ends.) Note: This rule applies to ONE recognized program only.
- Stayed in Israel one year or more NOT on a recognized program, then left for at least 24 months: Age of Arrival = date of return. May visit up to 120 days/year during the 24-month away period.
Note: The IDF is currently reevaluating the policy on resetting Age of Arrival by staying out of Israel 24 months. Updates will be posted.
For questions: Contact the Meitav representative at the Consulate General of Israel – New York: [email protected] or 212-499-5314.
Length of Service Chart (Age of Arrival: June 1, 2015 or after)
Applies only to Olim who entered Israel at age 18 or older. Olim who arrived at age 17 or younger must serve 32 months, regardless of family status.
| Age of Arrival | 18–19 | 20 | 21 | 22–27 (Exempt, can volunteer) | 28+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Male | 32 months | 24 months | 24 months | Non-combat: 18 months / Combat: 24 months | Exempt / Not eligible to volunteer |
| Married Male (no children) | 32 months | 24 months | 24 months | Non-combat: 18 months / Combat: 24 months | Exempt / Not eligible to volunteer |
| Married Male with Child | Volunteer: min. 24 months | Volunteer: min. 24 months | Volunteer: min. 24 months | Non-combat: 18 months / Combat: 24 months | Exempt / Not eligible to volunteer |
| Single Female (all Aliyah statuses) | 24 months* | 24 months* | 24 months* | Non-combat: 18 months / Combat: 32 months | Exempt / Not eligible to volunteer |
*Single females serving in combat or specific roles are required to serve a full 32 months.
Some positions require a full army service commitment, occasionally longer.
Special Cases
Doctors and Dentists (Male)
For army service information for physicians: https://www.imap.org.il/licensing-process/army-requirements/
Women — Exemptions
- Religious women may receive a Ptor (exemption). See: https://www.nbn.org.il/aliyahpedia/army-national-service/sherut-leumi/idf-exemption-for-religious-reasons/
- Married women receive an automatic exemption from IDF service.
- There is no requirement for women to do Sherut Leumi (National Service) instead of military service. See: https://www.nbn.org.il/sherut-leumi-national-service/
Date of Enlistment After Aliyah
- The Israeli government grants Olim one year of acclimation before being drafted.
- A Tzav Rishon (first IDF notice) is sent to your home address approximately 9 months after receiving your Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID card).
- To expedite your army process after Aliyah, contact the Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers department: [email protected]
Key Contacts
- Nefesh B’Nefesh Lone Soldiers (Age of Arrival questions): [email protected]
- IDF official information (mitgaisim): https://www.mitgaisim.idf.il
- Meitav NY (Age of Arrival clarifications): [email protected] / 212-499-5314