How old do you have to be to join the IDF?
men: age 18 – 23 inclusive | women: age 18 – 20 inclusive [if this does not apply to you – here] willing to do at least 18 months of IDF service (14 months, if no army ulpan required), shoulder to shoulder with regular Israeli soldiers.
Can I join the IDF If my parents live in Israel?
If anyone of your parents resides in Israel, your min. service time could be longer [if this applies to you – here] willing to do at least 14 months of IDF service, shoulder to shoulder with regular Israeli soldiers. If anyone of your parents resides in Israel, your min. service time could be longer [if this applies to you – here]
Who qualifies for the IDF Mahal program?
If you are not Jewish or Zakai Aliya (one of your parents or one of your grandparents is/was Jewish) – here Basically all non-Israeli citizens ( men: age 18 – 23 inclusive | women: age 18 – 20 inclusive | physicians 35 inclusive) qualify for the above IDF Mahal programs (i.e. without acquiring Israeli citizenship).
How do I get assigned to an IDF unit?
IDF units and jobs when eligible for IDF enlistment – here. The assignment to a specific IDF unit or job is based on a few factors such as the army’s needs, your medical profile as determined by IDF tests during the enlistment procedures (in Israel), your min. service time, and your preferences.
The age limit for conscription is 23 and that applies very rarely (people postponing their service for all sorts of reasons or Israeli citizens who lived in other countries and are coming back). However, simply joining the IDF can be done at any time as long as they accept you.
Can I volunteer for the IDF without becoming an Israeli citizen?
If you are interested in volunteering for the IDF without becoming an Israeli citizen, there are a few short-term volunteer programs available. Mahal: Mahal is an enlistment track dating back to the 1948 War of Independence specifically designed for foreign volunteers wishing to serve in the IDF and full combat and support roles.
How long does it take to serve in the IDF?
After eight weeks in this immersive army program, serving alongside fellow Jewish youth from countries around the world, you’ll know more about the inner workings of the IDF than you ever dreamed, and you’ll have experienced it firsthand.
What is the IDF kibbutz program?
It brings them together to live on a kibbutz, learn Hebrew, and then join the IDF as a group.