Information for Parents

Taglit-Birthright Israel is an innovative program funded by a partnership between leading Jewish philanthropists, the people of Israel through their government and local Jewish communities (North American Jewish Federations through the United Jewish Communities, Keren Hayesod and The Jewish Agency for Israel). Taglit-Birthright Israel provides the gift of first time, peer group, educational trips to Israel for Jewish young adults ages 18 to 26.

Taglit-Birthright Israel's founders created this program to send thousands of young Jewish adults from all over the world to Israel as a gift in order to diminish the growing division between Israel and Jewish communities around the world; to strengthen the sense of solidarity between Israeli youth and Jewish communities around the world; to increase the number of return visits to Israel; and to promote the role of Israel as a powerful resource in Jewish learning. Learn more about the organization by clicking here.

Registration

Taglit-Birthright Israel recognizes that it may be difficult for some applicants to apply for the trip themselves. However, this application process involves accepting an "electronic waiver" which lawfully and honorably binds the applicant to the terms and conditions of the waiver. Given that it is illegal for anyone other then the applicant to "accept" the terms and conditions of the "waiver" Taglit-Birthright Israel insists that all applicants for the Winter 2009/2010 trips complete their online application themselves.

Safety and Security

We are constantly reviewing all security measures and will implement the most stringent security measures throughout the trip to ensure that we provide a comprehensive safety umbrella. For a full presentation on the measures Taglit-Birthright Israel is taking to ensure safety and security on all trips, click here (you may need to disable your pop-up blocker). For more information about our security policies, click here.

Trip Logistics

Is my child accepted? When will we know when the flight departs for Israel? When can our cousins in Israel visit my child? Where will my child be staying? Can they extend their stay in Israel?

ALL of these questions, and more, should be directed to the Trip Organizer with which your child signed up. Taglit-Birthright Israel is the funding organization that provides the gift of the trip. The actual trips are operated by a wide variety of educational organizations and professional Israel tour operators. These Trip Organizers are the only ones who can answer specific questions you may have about your child's trip. Click here for full list of all Taglit-Birthright Israel-approved North American Trip Organizers.

PLEASE be patient with Trip Organizers as they are inundated as the program is heavily oversubscribed for the upcoming trips.

What does my child need for the trip?

Your child MUST bring a passport that is valid for at least six months after their arrival in Israel. All participants are advised to carry traveler's health insurance that is valid in Israel for the duration of their trip. All medications, corrective glasses and other everyday necessities should be carried on the plane and with your child at all times. It is a good idea to keep a copy of their prescriptions that can be faxed in case of emergency. Questions regarding recommended amounts of money to bring, phone cards and specific itinerary questions should be directed to the Trip Organizer with which your child signed up.

Is there something I can print out?

Yes! You can print out the Pre-Trip Book that is sent to participants (click on 'Download PDF').

Can I view video of the trips?

Yes! You can view multiple videos from the trips (both edited by us and shot by participants themselves) on our You Tube page.

How can I share this information with my child or another young adult?

You can send an ecard inviting your friends/family to learn more by clicking here!