IDF SERVICE FOR OLIM
Sherut Chova BeTzahal
שירות חובה בצה"ל
Last updated: 24.06.2024
Enlisting in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is mandatory for all Israeli citizens of a certain age, for both men and women.
Who is obligated to serve?
Olim from age 18 may be drafted, depending on various factors such as medical health and physical fitness. Marital status also affects the obligation to serve.
What's the duration of service?
The duration of mandatory service depends on your age at the time of Aliyah and personal status. See the following charts for details:
Single or Married Women (ages 18-19 or 20-21) in certain roles (combat roles, for example), may be required to extend their service to 32 months. Important Note: There are exceptions to the information above. If you have postponed your IDF service, received a deferment, or made Aliyah after having an A1 visa for a few years – the IDF may draft you for compulsory service despite being over 21.
Men
| Age Upon Aliyah | Single | Married | Married with children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to age 19 | 32 Months | 32 Months | Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months |
| 20-21 | 24 Months | 24 Months | Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months |
| 22-27 | Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months | ||
| 28+ | Exempt – considered too old to serve and ineligible to volunteer | ||
Women:
| Age Upon Aliyah | Single | Married | Married with children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to age 19 | 24 Months | Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months | Exempt |
| 20-21 | 24 Months | Exempt, but can volunteer for 24 months | Exempt |
| 22-27 | Exempt, but can volunteer for 18 months | Exempt | Exempt |
| 28+ | Exempt – considered too old to serve and ineligible to volunteer | ||
Single or Married Women (ages 18-19 or 20-21) in certain roles (combat roles, for example), may be required to extend their service to 32 months. Important Note: There are exceptions to the information above. If you have postponed your IDF service, received a deferment, or made Aliyah after having an A1 visa for a few years – the IDF may draft you for compulsory service despite being over 21.
When do Olim actually begin their service?
The IDF understands that it takes time for Olim to adapt to living in Israel. Therefore, the IDF allows Olim one year to adapt to living in Israel before enlisting.
Some Olim decide to enlist into the IDF before that one year period is over. This is an option, although not required.
Voluntary Enlistment
If you wish to enlist in the IDF, including during your first year of Aliyah, contact the IDF Meitav Overseas Recruitment Department for instructions, via whatsapp at 052-945-8579, email joinidf@mail.idf.il, or phone at 03-7387080.