Published: 29.07.2026
Israeli citizenship by descent can be obtained while keeping one’s home and work outside Israel, although some steps require time in Israel in person. The process does not require surrendering U.S. citizenship, and citizenship taken as a non-resident is generally understood not to create Israeli tax residency on its own.
According to the source, people proving Israeli ancestry may pursue citizenship without relocating immediately, although the process still requires in-person steps in Israel. This is especially relevant to families that want to secure citizenship while continuing to live and work abroad. The source also states that obtaining citizenship as a non-resident is generally not, by itself, considered to create Israeli tax residency, while U.S. citizens remain subject to U.S. taxation on worldwide income. The update is worth reading for prospective applicants by descent and families considering a future move.