National Health Insurance (NHI) — Overview and eligibility for expats and new immigrants in Israel
Source: https://www.expatfocus.com/israel/guide/israel-health-insurance · 2026
Israel National Health Insurance — Overview and Eligibility for Expats and New Immigrants
Israel maintains a compulsory National Health Insurance (NHI) framework, established under the National Health Insurance Law of 1995, which provides coverage to all officially recognised residents through one of four public health funds (Kupot Cholim).
Key Facts at a Glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Public system | National Health Insurance (NHI) — mandatory for all recognised residents; administered via four non-profit health funds (Kupot Cholim) |
| Expat eligibility | Requires recognised residency status via Bituach Leumi; foreign workers and tourists are excluded from the public system |
| Health tax rate (as of 2025) | 3.23% on earnings up to 60% of average wage; 5.17% on earnings above that threshold (employee contribution) |
| Waiting period | Up to 6 months for returning/new residents; can be waived by paying NIS 16,860 to Bituach Leumi (as of January 2026) |
| International private insurance cost | Approximately USD $500–$8,000 per year depending on coverage level (as of 2024) |
| Key official sources | Bituach Leumi (National Insurance Institute): https://www.btl.gov.il and Israel Ministry of Health: https://www.health.gov.il |
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility is determined by residency rather than citizenship. Residency means that the primary focus of your daily life is based in Israel. All Israeli residents aged 18 and above are legally obligated to register with Bituach Leumi and pay both general insurance and healthcare contributions.
- New immigrants (olim) who receive recognised residency status through Bituach Leumi are entitled to join the public system.
- Foreign workers are excluded from the public system and must obtain private health insurance. Under the Israeli Foreign Workers Law, employers may be required to provide private medical insurance for the full duration of the employment contract, and may deduct a portion of the monthly salary to cover this cost.
- Tourists, short-term visitors, and undocumented migrants fall outside the system entirely and must arrange private or international health insurance independently.
- Refugees and asylum seekers are not covered under the public scheme, though their children may be covered if parents pay a monthly contribution.
- Certain visa categories (work visa, student visa, NGO or diplomatic roles) may require evidence of private or international health coverage before entry or at permit renewal. Always review the most up-to-date consular and immigration guidance for your specific visa type.
Waiting Period
New and returning residents may face a waiting period of up to 6 months before becoming entitled to public health coverage. This waiting period can be waived by paying a lump sum of NIS 16,860 to Bituach Leumi (as of January 2026).
Important Warning
Underreporting income or ignoring contribution obligations can result in substantial fines, accumulating interest, and the suspension of entitlements. Always confirm your specific obligations with Bituach Leumi or the Israeli Ministry of Health, as the rules are subject to change.