Proof of Judaism for Aliyah

Hi, I am in the process of making aliyah and going through the application. My dad was born Jewish and both of his parents (my grandparents) escaped the Holocaust. How do I acquire proof of Judaism?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

It is wonderful to hear that you are “coming home.”

It is unclear to me if you are Jewish or a convert as you don’t mention your mother in your question. I will share details of both possibilities below. One is only Jewish if one’s mother is Jewish. The father’s background is irrelevant for this purpose.

In terms of proof of Judaism for Aliyah purposes, you will need a letter from your synagogue and Rabbi. The rabbi should write in letter how he knows you and that you are Jewish either from being born to a Jewish mother or having undergone conversion. Your full name, Hebrew name, and parents name should appear in the letter.

The letter must be dated within a year of your Aliyah application and appear on the official letterhead of the synagogue. The letter must be written in Hebrew or in English. The letter must be an original as the rabbi’s signature must appear in ink.

Also useful, if relevant, will be your parent’s marriage documents which will better assisting in proving that you come from Jewish lineage. The birth certificates on one’s parents might also be helpful if not outright needed.

If you converted to Judaism, you will be required to submit your conversion certificate and an accompanying letter that describes the conversion process you went through.

Unfortunately, one who is not Jewish is also eligible for Aliya if one’s father or grandfather is Jewish. We trust this is not your situation. This is a process we will not discuss here.