Making Aliyah from Porto Alegre and Finding a Home in Israel
Making Aliyah from Porto Alegre and Finding a Home in Israel
Making aliyah from Porto Alegre means leaving behind the chimarrao on a winter afternoon, the streets of Bom Fim and the rhythm of a city that feels intimate despite its size. It also means starting a new chapter in a country where many families already have relatives. Beyond the formal process with the Jewish Agency, the most practical question is where to live. This guide looks at the organisation needed before leaving, the cities where people from the south of Brazil often settle, the balance between renting and buying and the professional support that makes a first purchase safe. It is general guidance and does not replace official or legal advice.
Getting organised in Porto Alegre
Start by collecting civil documents, proof of Jewish lineage or conversion and academic records, with certified translations and apostilles. Community institutions in Porto Alegre can point you to the right contacts at the Jewish Agency.
Meet a Brazilian accountant to understand what happens to your tax residency and to any assets you keep in Brazil, such as an apartment in Moinhos de Vento or investments. Clear planning at this stage prevents problems later.
Where gauchos often settle
Some families look for a calm, community-oriented environment in Raanana, Kfar Saba, Hod Hasharon or Modiin. Others prefer the dynamism of Tel Aviv and the surrounding cities, where jobs are concentrated.
Beer Sheva and the surrounding Negev offer more space and a strong academic presence, and Kibbutz Bror Hayil has historic links with Brazilian immigrants. Haifa and the Krayot suit those who want sea, hills and a quieter pace.
Renting as a starting point
Most families rent during their first year. Renting allows you to try a neighbourhood, see how the children adapt to school and understand real commuting times before committing to a purchase.
Israeli leases are usually annual and landlords ask for guarantees. Ask a lawyer or an experienced friend to read the lease, especially the clauses on maintenance, early exit and the return of the guarantee.
Buying the first home
When you are ready to buy, work with an Israeli lawyer who represents only you. He or she checks the registry, looks for debts and planning issues, drafts the contract and registers the warning note that protects your rights until transfer.
New immigrants may be eligible for particular conditions on purchase tax and on mortgages. These arrangements change, so confirm them with an Israeli lawyer and tax advisor at the time of purchase.
Ulpan, work and adaptation
Hebrew ulpan structures the first months, and living close to a good programme saves time and energy. Adults who will look for work should also consider the recognition of Brazilian diplomas and professional licences, which can take a while.
Children often adapt quickly, especially in schools experienced with immigrants. Parks, youth movements and community centres help the whole family build a new network. Consider, too, the climate: people from Porto Alegre are used to cold, damp winters, while most of Israel has long, hot summers and short mild winters, so orientation, shade and air conditioning deserve attention when choosing an apartment.
Keeping ties with Rio Grande do Sul
Many olim from Porto Alegre keep property, bank accounts or business interests in Brazil. Each of these has consequences in both tax systems, and the rules on reporting foreign assets differ between the two countries.
Maintaining contact with your Brazilian accountant after the move, and coordinating with an Israeli tax advisor, keeps your situation clear on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to rent or buy after aliyah
For most families renting first is sensible, because it gives time to choose the right city and neighbourhood. Buying immediately can make sense when you already know the area well.
Which cities are popular with Brazilian immigrants
Brazilians live across Israel, with notable communities in the Sharon, the Tel Aviv area, Jerusalem, Haifa and the Negev. Community groups can help you find others from the south of Brazil.
Can I keep my apartment in Porto Alegre
Yes. Many immigrants keep property in Brazil and let it out. Discuss the tax treatment with a Brazilian accountant and an Israeli tax advisor.
Will my Brazilian profession be recognised
Many professions require a recognition process or licensing exam in Israel. Start gathering documents early and check with the relevant Israeli authority.
Elkayam Group
Elkayam Group grew out of a family enterprise from the forties and is now run by the third generation from its Tel Aviv office on Rival Street. Its day-to-day work covers development, TAMA 38, pinui-binui and other urban renewal, as well as combination and complex transactions in which partners and backing companies provide guarantees. The team speaks Hebrew, English and French, and helps new immigrants from Porto Alegre understand the local market before they buy.
Getting ready for aliyah from Porto Alegre Ask Elkayam Group about your first home in Israel.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv