Proof of Judaism

Acceptable Proof of Judaism is a letter from a recognized synagogue Rabbi from a Rabbinical Organization in North America, confirming how the Rabbi knows you and stating that you are Jewish and born to a Jewish mother.

•  This is required for all adults in the family making Aliyah.
• The letter must have been written in the past year on official letterhead.
• If you are Jewish through your father or grandfather, please provide a letter from a recognized Rabbi from a synagogue or temple associated with a rabbinical organization in North America, stating that you were born to a Jewish father or grandfather as relevant, listing their names. You MAY also be required, by the Jewish Agency, to provide a copy of any of the following documents- your father’s Birth Certificate, your parents’ Marriage Certificate, and/or your grandparent’s Marriage Certificate.
• Israeli citizens may have additional options for the Proof of Judaism requirement.
• Please contact your Jewish Agency for Israel Shaliach to discuss your options if you cannot obtain this letter.
• Some other requirements of the letter are as follows:
  • The letter must be in English or Hebrew.
  • The letter must appear on official synagogue letterhead. It must state the name, location, and telephone number of the congregation, and include your full legal name (as appears on your passport) and parents’ names (and grandparents’ names, where relevant).
  • The letter must bear the Rabbi’s signature, and the Rabbi’s name and title should appear on the letterhead.
  • The letter must show the date it was written
  • If you converted to Judaism, you will be required to submit different documentation proving your completion of the conversion process. You will receive further instructions during the application process.
  • Signature from Rabbi must be in ink. A digital signature is insufficient.