Israeli Banks — Opening a Bank Account as a New Oleh

Source: https://www.nbn.org.il/life-in-israel/community-and-housing/setting-up-your-home-in-israel-community-and-housing/opening-a-bank-account-in-israel · 2026

A few days after making Aliyah you will be asked to schedule a meeting with Misrad Haklita to discuss your Sal Klita, the benefits new Olim receive. At this meeting, you will be asked to hand in documentation from an Israeli bank showing your account details, so they can start depositing monthly payments as part of your Sal Klita.

Documents and Items You Will Need to Open an Account

1. Your Teudat Zehut and Teudat Oleh (if you don’t have your Teudat Zehut yet, your Teudat Oleh should suffice).
2. Cash or a check to make a deposit into your new account and thus activate it. Misrad Haklita is unable to transfer Sal Klita payments to an inactive account.
3. “Note of Future Bank Account” received at the airport.
4. Time — there are many forms to sign and much information you should ask and receive. It is highly recommended that you go to the bank at least one hour before they close.
5. Your foreign tax identification number. If you came from the U.S., this is your Social Security number. If you came from other countries, this is your ITIN/TIN number.
6. US citizens will be requested to provide their Social Security number and complete a W-9 form.

What You Will Receive When Opening the Account

1. A booklet with all of your account terms and conditions, including your bank account number and branch details.
2. Instructions for online banking, if you request access to it.
3. Phone banking access details.
4. Copies of forms and terms for a credit card.
5. Your “Note of Future Bank Account” gets stamped — retain this paperwork for your meeting with Misrad Haklita.

Important Notes

1. Each person who will appear on the bank account (e.g., your spouse) must be present with his or her documentation when you open the account.
2. You will be signing forms confirming you declare taxes in your country of origin and that all money in your account is yours (tax and anti-money laundering forms). All account owners must have their foreign tax identification numbers/Social Security numbers.
3. US citizens will be asked to complete a W-9 form.
4. Most credit cards are issued via your bank. You can order your first card when you open your account. You will probably need to put aside a deposit to be eligible for a card. A credit card also acts as an ATM card, so you do not need both.

Connection to Sal Klita (Absorption Basket)

Your bank account details are required by Misrad Haklita before they can begin depositing your monthly Sal Klita payments. Make sure your account is active (i.e., has an initial deposit) and bring the stamped “Note of Future Bank Account” to your Misrad Haklita appointment.