Returning citizens

A returning citizen is a term used in Israeli tax law and life. To qualify as a returning citizen you must meet one of the following categories:

• Resided overseas for at least 10 years from the date they left Israel
• Resided overseas for 5 years and returned to Israel during 2007-2009
• Were considered foreign residents on January 1 2007

Once given this status, the bearer receives certain benefits from the state in terms of tax (see taxation in Israel). Special benefits also exist for retuning scientists, and entrepreneurs.

The law was introduced in order to persuade many Israelis, who had made yerida (A jew who has left the state of Israel) to return. The special support granted to scientists and entrepreneurs reflects a desire to further business and support the country's already large High-Tech Industry.

References:

• http://israel.gov.il/FirstGov/TopNavEng/PageReturnHomeEng.htm
• http://www.moia.gov.il/Moia_en/ReturningCitizens/WhoIs.htm