Assistance to artists

A returning resident who is recognized by the Ministry of Immigrant Absorption as an artist can be eligible for assistance from the Ministry.

To receive recognition as an artist, a returning resident must apply to the relevant professional committee of the Ministry of Immigrant Absorption, and submit the required professional certificates. Recognition will also be given to those employed in their field by a body defined by the Ministry as a "leading cultural institution" in Israel.

A returning resident who is recognized by the professional committee as an "outstanding artist" may be given a recommendation for additional assistance from the Inter-ministerial Committee for the Absorption of Outstanding Immigrant Artists and from other funds and organizations.

The professional committees operate in the following fields:

• Plastic arts
• Music
• Stage and Theater arts 
• Dance
• Television and cinema
• Literature
• Musical composition

Assistance to eligible artists includes:

• One-time monetary grant for the purchase of professional tools or equipment.
• Assistance in introducing the artist to the public, such as the publication of a first book in Israel, or first recording, concert, or public appearance, exhibition, catalogue, participation in fairs and events, etc.
• Special courses for artists.
• Participation in financing the artist's employment

New artistic bodies set up by returning artists may receive ongoing financial support for up to five years (for example: artists' wages, rehearsals, costumes, scenery and stage props, PR, etc.).

An application for assistance may be submitted up to 24 months from the day of return to Israel.

Information may be obtained, after your return to Israel, from the coordinator for returning residents at the Ministry of Immigrant Absorption office nearest to your place of residence. 

Assistance to Athletes

A returning resident who is recognized as an athlete by the Sports Authority of the Ministry of Science, Culture, and Sport is entitled to a one-time grant for the purchase of sports equipment or professional clothing, as well as assistance in vocational absorption according to the Ministry regulations.

For more information about this assistance, which is given to the entire population served by the Ministry of Immigrant Absorption, see New Immigrant and Returning Resident Artists and Athletes in the section about employment on the Ministry website.