Legal Articles

Foreign nationals who invest in Israeli real estate tend to assume that inheritance laws will apply in much the same way as they do in their country of residence. In practice, Israeli law may differ substantially and can sometimes produce unexpected results with significant consequences. A Real Case (Names and Details Have Been Changed) David and Rachel, a Jewish couple from Manhattan, purchased a three bedroom apartment in Tel Aviv about ten years ago. They assumed that, as

Investing in real estate in Israel can be highly rewarding, but choosing the right tenant is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring stable long-term returns. For investors—especially foreign residents—careful tenant screening can prevent costly and time-consuming eviction processes, loss of rental income, and property damage. While Israel has a legal framework for eviction proceedings, these cases often involve lengthy court processes and significant expenses.

If you are planning to purchase real estate in Israel, you may be surprised when your lawyer requests that you sign an Irrevocable Power of Attorney (IPA). Many clients naturally ask: • “Why does my lawyer need an irrevocable power of attorney?” • “Does this mean they can do anything on my behalf?” • “Isn’t this risky? What if I want to cancel it?” • “Why can’t I just sign the documents myself?” These concerns are legitimate. The IPA grants your lawyer significant authority t

In recent years, an increasing number of non-residents have chosen to invest in real estate in Israel. For many, this is not only a financial investment, but also a way to acquire property in Israel for family purposes, maintain a connection to the country, or establish a long-term asset base. However, the process of transferring funds from abroad to Israel for the purpose of purchasing real estate is a regulated procedure that requires strict compliance with banking and regu

Guiding Principles for Making a Gift in Israel How to Transfer a Gift Properly and Efficiently from a Legal and Tax Perspective Introduction For most individuals, a gift is perceived as a simple and emotional gesture, given out of genuine goodwill and a sincere desire to benefit another person. However, from a legal perspective, a gift is a transaction with significant and, in some cases, irreversible consequences, requiring careful consideration, advance planning, and precis

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney and Why Does Israel Encourage Its Use? Imagine if you could no longer make decisions for yourself (temporarily or permanently). Who would manage your medical care, your money, or your property? A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to plan in advance who will make decisions on your behalf if you cannot, while ensuring your values and intentions are respected. It is signed in advance and becomes effective unde

In Israel, there are real estate assets that are not registered in the name of their beneficial owner, but rather in the name of a family member, such as a child, spouse, parent, or other relative. In many cases, this is done for family-related, planning, or practical reasons. However, from a legal perspective, such a step may result in a loss of legal and practical control over the asset and weaken the legal protection afforded to it. This is, in fact, one of the most sensit

Non-residents are entitled to apply for a mortgage in Israel, subject to the policies of the banks and the guidelines of the "Bank of Israel". However, this is a regulated process that requires advance preparation and the submission of appropriate documentation. Financing Ratios As a general rule, Israeli banks adopt a conservative approach toward non-residents: • Financing of up to 50% of the property value • In exceptional cases, up to 75% of the property value, subject to

Do you have a vacant property ? For overseas property owners, one of the most unexpected and potentially costly risks associated with owning real estate in Israel is the danger of trespassers or unlawful occupiers taking possession of a vacant property. Individuals seeking to exploit an empty apartment or unused parcel of land may unlawfully enter the premises and, once discovered, demand payment in exchange for vacating the property. In other cases, they may attempt to asser