Making Aliyah from Sao Paulo and Finding a Home in Israel
Making Aliyah from Sao Paulo and Finding a Home in Israel
Every year families from Sao Paulo begin the aliyah process, often after years in youth movements, Jewish schools and the synagogues of Higienopolis and Jardins. The formal procedure runs through the Jewish Agency and the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, yet the question that keeps most families awake is a different one: where will we live. This guide helps you think about housing in a realistic way, comparing renting and buying, cities with Portuguese-speaking communities and the legal points to watch. It does not replace official guidance or professional advice, but it organises the choices most often faced by people leaving Sao Paulo.
First steps before you fly
The first contact is usually with the Jewish Agency representation, which explains documentation, proof of eligibility and the timetable. In parallel, gather birth and marriage certificates, diplomas and school transcripts, with the translations and apostilles you will need later.
On the Brazilian side, a conversation with an accountant about your tax position when you leave the country avoids surprises. The rules on ceasing tax residency in Brazil have practical consequences, and every family's case deserves specific guidance.
Rent first or buy straight away
Many families prefer to rent during the first period, learn the neighbourhoods, schools and daily rhythm, and only then buy. Others arrive with a purchase already planned, especially when relatives are established in a particular city.
New immigrants may be entitled to specific benefits, including on mortgages and on purchase tax, but the rules change over time. Confirm your eligibility and the conditions with an Israeli lawyer and an Israeli tax advisor before relying on them.
Cities chosen by olim from Brazil
Raanana and Kfar Saba bring together immigrants from many countries and offer a good range of schools and synagogues of different streams. Modiin attracts young families who work in Tel Aviv or in Jerusalem and want easy access to both.
Jerusalem is chosen by religious families and by people who want to live at the historic and spiritual heart of the country. Haifa offers a more balanced cost of living and strong universities, while Beer Sheva and Kibbutz Bror Hayil in the south have a long tradition of welcoming Brazilians.
Raanana and Kfar Saba for international communities
Modiin for families with young children
Jerusalem for religious and community life
Haifa and Beer Sheva for a more balanced budget
Ulpan and integration
Hebrew ulpan is one of the pillars of the first months. Choosing a home with easy access to a good ulpan, public transport and a school for the children makes an enormous difference to how quickly the family settles.
People from Sao Paulo, used to big-city life, often adapt well to Tel Aviv and the Gush Dan area, although housing there is in high demand. Smaller cities can offer more space and a close-knit community, which some families value above everything else.
Work and commuting
Think about where the adults will work before signing a lease. Tel Aviv and the central region concentrate jobs in technology, finance and services, and the train network and the Tel Aviv light rail make commuting from nearby cities practical.
Professionals with Brazilian qualifications may need recognition of their diplomas or licensing exams in Israel. That process can take time, so a flexible housing choice in the first year gives you room to adjust.
Buying your first home in Israel
When the time comes to buy, hire an Israeli lawyer who represents only you. The lawyer checks the title, debts, building permits and any planned urban renewal, and prepares the contract and the warning note that protects you until transfer.
If you are still selling property or moving savings from Sao Paulo, plan the timing of the transfers with your Brazilian accountant and your Israeli bank so the funds arrive when the contract requires them.
Frequently asked questions
Should we sell our apartment in Sao Paulo before aliyah
Not necessarily. Some families keep it as a rental or as a safety net during the first years. The decision has tax consequences in Brazil and in Israel, so review it with a Brazilian accountant and an Israeli tax advisor.
Are there Brazilian communities in Israel
Yes. Brazilians live across the country, with visible communities in the central region, in Jerusalem, in Haifa and in the south. Community groups and social networks help newcomers find housing and advice.
How long are rental contracts in Israel
Residential leases are commonly signed for a year with an option to extend, and landlords usually ask for guarantees. Have the contract reviewed before signing, especially the clauses on repairs and early termination.
Can new immigrants get a mortgage
Israeli banks lend to new immigrants, and there may be specific conditions available to them. Eligibility depends on income and documentation, so speak with a bank and with a mortgage advisor early.
Elkayam Group
From its office on Rival Street in Tel Aviv, Kobi Elkayam Real Estate Ltd works in development, urban renewal, pinui-binui and TAMA 38, and structures combination and complex deals with partners able to issue guarantees. The team works in Hebrew, English and French and can guide new immigrants from Sao Paulo through the housing side of their move.
Preparing your aliyah from Sao Paulo Reach out to Elkayam Group to talk through your housing options.
+972-53-658-4252 · support@kobielkayamrealestateltd.com · Rival St 37, Tel Aviv