The big trip after the army: what to sort out before you fly

Last checked: October 2026. Amounts change, so always confirm with the official source.

Pre-flight checklist

• Passport valid 6+ months past your return date.
• "Discharged" profile on your Rav-Kav, within 60 days of discharge.
• Travel warnings for every country on the route.
• Travel insurance that covers trekking and rescue.
• A travel clinic visit for vaccines, 4–6 weeks before you fly.
• Power of attorney for a parent to handle paperwork.
• Bituach Leumi payments set up for while you're away.
• Copies of your passport and discharge certificate in the cloud.
• Correct bank details in the Directorate's personal area.

What does it cost? (rough monthly estimate, all-in)

• India and Nepal: ₪1,800–3,000.
• Southeast Asia: ₪2,500–4,000.
• South America: ₪3,500–5,500.
• Australia and New Zealand (not working): ₪7,000–9,500.
• Europe: ₪7,000–10,000.

While you travel

• Save the nearest Israeli embassy's number in each country.
• Book a psychometric date and apply to universities if you need to. Most applications close in spring or summer.
• Book a free online session with a Directorate counselor.
• Traveler communities: Gringo (South and Central America) and Kehilat Mizrach (Asia). Chabad houses for Shabbat, holidays and help.

Working abroad

Paid work on a tourist visa is illegal in most countries. Instead: a working holiday visa (Australia, New Zealand) or a summer camp program.

Common questions

Official sources

• National Security Council: travel warnings
• Israeli embassies abroad
• Gringo
• Kehilat Mizrach