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Rights for Ethiopian-Israeli Veterans — The Complete Guide in Haifa

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 Haifa

Haifa is home to an established Israeli-Ethiopian community, spread across multiple neighbourhoods in the city. The local real-estate market offers a range of housing options — from modern projects in the Carmel area to neighbourhoods with urban-renewal potential in the eastern part of the city.

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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 Haifa