Visit Certificate (Igeret Bikur)
A temporary identity document issued to immigrants from Ethiopia at the start of the aliyah process, before receiving a permanent Israeli ID.
What is the Visit Certificate?
The Visit Certificate (Igeret Bikur) is a type of temporary identity document issued to immigrants — and, in the Ethiopian context, to many community members and Falash Mura — in the early stages of the aliyah and absorption process, before a permanent Israeli ID was issued.
Historical significance
The document symbolizes the in-between status of many immigrants — between leaving Ethiopia and receiving full status in Israel. For many families, the Visit Certificate is part of the family memory of the aliyah journey.
Relevance today
Anyone still holding old immigration documents is advised to keep them for rights realization, verifying aliyah seniority and allowance eligibility.
See also
- Falash Mura — many of whom went through this process
- Jewish Agency — managing the aliyah process
- Absorption Basket — assistance following aliyah
Related terms
- Falash MuraDescendants of Ethiopian Jews who converted to Christianity in the 19th century. Government decisions in 2015, 2018, and 2024 enabled phased aliyah.
- Absorption Basket (Sal Klita)Initial financial assistance the state grants new immigrants in the first absorption months to cover basic living costs.
- The Jewish Agency for IsraelA global Jewish organization responsible for encouraging and managing aliyah to Israel — played a central role in the Ethiopian aliyah operations.