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Rights for Ethiopian-Israeli Veterans — The Complete Guide in Be'er Sheva
Ethiopian-Israeli soldiers are entitled to an enhanced discharge grant (150% of the base grant), dedicated vocational-training programs, study scholarships, and priority on housing waiting lists.
About Be'er Sheva
Be'er Sheva, the largest city in the south, hosts a growing Israeli-Ethiopian community, with a notable second-generation presence around Ben-Gurion University and regional educational institutions. The city offers a wide range of properties and housing opportunities alongside ongoing infrastructure and development projects.
What Is Unique to Ethiopian-Israeli Soldiers?
Government resolutions establish special benefit tracks for soldiers of Ethiopian origin. Awareness is low and many do not claim what they are entitled to.
Enhanced discharge grant: 150% of the standard base grant — 50% more. Submit Form B.L.87 before discharge, or within one year of release.
Dedicated vocational programs: Tech training (Nativ LaAtid), logistics, agriculture, engineering — run jointly by IEWA, the Ministry of Aliyah, and partner organisations.
Study scholarships: Jerusalem Foundation grants (up to ₪20,000/year), Mapal grants for combat veterans, and free university-prep year programs.
Housing priority: Ethiopian-Israeli veterans receive priority points on public-housing and state housing-program waiting lists. Apply via your city's Ethiopian-community liaison (Mamshil) with your discharge certificate.
Contact IEWA (iewa.org.il) or TEBEKA (1-800-20-20-16) for guidance.
About Be'er Sheva
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Ethiopian-Israeli discharged soldiers are entitled to a discharge grant of up to 120,000 ILS, an education scholarship, mortgage points, and preference in civil service.
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