Israeli Residence Permit Photo Requirements

Overview

Israeli residence permits require specific 35×45 mm photos that meet PIBA standards. These permits are essential for non-citizens living, working, or studying in Israel.

Photo Specifications

Exact Dimensions

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (width × height)
• Face height: 32–36 mm (from chin to top of head)
• Face-to-photo ratio: 70-80% of total height
• Position: Centered horizontally and vertically

Technical Requirements

• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for printing
• Digital format: High-quality JPEG
• File size: 100 KB to 2 MB
• Color: Full color required
• Background: Plain white
• Quality: Sharp, clear, and professionally taken

Residence Permit Types

Work Permit (אשרת עבודה)

• Purpose: Employment in Israel
• Validity: 1-3 years (renewable)
• Requirements: Job offer, employer sponsorship
• Fee: ₪500-1,200

Student Visa (ויזת סטודנט)

• Purpose: Academic studies
• Validity: Duration of studies
• Requirements: University acceptance
• Fee: ₪300-600

Family Reunification (איחוד משפחות)

• Purpose: Joining Israeli family members
• Validity: 1-5 years (renewable)
• Requirements: Family relationship proof
• Fee: ₪800-1,500

Temporary Residence (תושבות זמנית)

• Purpose: Various temporary stays
• Validity: 6 months to 2 years
• Requirements: Specific purpose documentation
• Fee: ₪400-800

Application Process

Required Documents

• Passport: Valid foreign passport
• Photos: Two identical 35×45 mm photos
• Application form: Completed PIBA forms
• Supporting documents: Purpose-specific documentation
• Medical insurance: Valid health coverage

Application Locations

• PIBA offices: Main immigration offices
• Israeli consulates: For applications from abroad
• Border control: Some permits available at entry
• Online: Limited services through gov.il

Processing Times

• Work permits: 4-8 weeks
• Student visas: 2-6 weeks
• Family reunification: 6-12 months
• Temporary residence: 2-4 weeks

Where to Get Photos

Near PIBA Offices

• Specialized studios: Immigration photo specialists
• Quick service: Usually 15-30 minutes
• Multiple languages: Staff often multilingual
• Cost: ₪25-50

Professional Studios

• Shopping centers: Photo services in malls
• Tourist areas: Services for international visitors
• Embassy districts: Near foreign embassies
• Cost: ₪30-60

Online Services

• Upload and print: Digital photo services
• Home delivery: Photos delivered to address
• International shipping: For overseas applicants
• Cost: ₪20-45

Special Considerations

For Foreign Workers

• Employer requirements: Some employers assist with applications
• Sector-specific: Different rules for different industries
• Renewal process: Must maintain employment for renewal
• Documentation: Work contracts and tax records needed

For Students

• University assistance: Academic institutions often help
• Part-time work: Limited work permissions
• Renewal: Tied to academic progress
• Documentation: Transcripts and enrollment verification

For Family Members

• Relationship proof: Marriage certificates, birth certificates
• Sponsor requirements: Israeli family member responsibilities
• Integration programs: Hebrew language and civic courses
• Path to residency: Potential route to permanent status

Common Issues

Photo Problems

• Size errors: Incorrect 35×45 mm dimensions
• Quality issues: Poor resolution or lighting
• Background problems: Not plain white
• Expression issues: Inappropriate facial expressions

Application Delays

• Missing documents: Incomplete application packages
• Translation needs: Documents not in Hebrew/English
• Security checks: Extended background verification
• Seasonal delays: Busy periods during holidays

Fees and Costs (2024)

Permit Fees

• Work permit: ₪500-1,200
• Student visa: ₪300-600
• Family reunification: ₪800-1,500
• Temporary residence: ₪400-800

Additional Costs

• Photo costs: ₪20-60
• Translation services: ₪50-150 per document
• Medical exams: ₪200-400
• Legal assistance: ₪1,000-5,000

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