Service in the IDF is obligatory, according to the Defence Law. This law applies to:
- Nationals of the State of Israel (in Israel and abroad), even if they have another nationality.
- Permanent residents of Israel, even if they are not Israeli nationals.
Israeli nationals abroad may make the following arrangements at the local Israeli mission:
- Arranging of status according to Defence Law
- Deferment of call-up for military service
- Study deferments
- Extension of departure permit for a soldier abroad
- Confirmation of service in IDF
ARRANGING OF STATUS ACCORDING TO DEFENCE LAW
For the purpose of arranging military status, the following forms must be completed:
- Registration form for Israeli nationals abroad
- Registration and personal request form for persons liable for defence service staying abroad
You must submit these forms to a mission for continued processing.
CALL-UP DEFERMENT
If you desire to defer your defence service for reasons of studies, health, social or personal problems, you must complete the following forms:
- Registration form for Israeli nationals abroad
- Request for call-up deferment
Nationals who were born abroad, or emigrated before the age of 16, may defer their call-up as per their request, as long as they are living abroad.
If it is decided by the recruitment officer or the consul to defer call-up, they will be allowed to visit Israel for up to 120 days a year, and once for up to 12 months, without being obligated to carry out their service.
Apply to a mission with the forms for continued processing.
STUDY DEFERMENTS
If you wish to study in the framework of the academic reserves in Israel, you may obtain the relevant application forms from the nearest Israeli mission.
EXTENSION OF SOLDIER'S DEPARTURE PERMIT
A soldier on an approved visit abroad during his regular (obligatory) service who needs to extend his stay must submit a request, with the reasons for requesting the extension, including authenticated documents, to the nearest Israeli mission .
The request will be forwarded to the IDF authorities, who will notify the mission of their decision.
CONFIRMATION OF SERVICE IN IDF
An Israeli national who served in the IDF and wishes to obtain a document of confirmation should apply in writing to the Consular Section of the Israeli mission nearest to his residence. The letter should include the following details:
- Personal IDF number
- Last and first names
- The corps in which you served
- Father's name
- Date of birth
- ID number
The request will be submitted to the IDF authorities. The confirmation will be sent to the applicant.