How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Jerusalem?

The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Jerusalem numbers approximately ~30,000 residents — around ~4% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: גונדר, קרית היובל, פסגת זאב.

What community support is available in Jerusalem for this right?

In Jerusalem, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP.

Home / Rights & Programs / Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis

Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis in Jerusalem

Govt loan for Ethiopian-Israeli families: ₪600,000 over 25 years, 0% interest for the first 10, 2% for the next 15. Allocated by annual lottery (~200 families).

Housing Mortgage Grants

About Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Israel's capital, hosts a large Israeli-Ethiopian community concentrated historically in the Gondar neighbourhood in the north and with significant presence in Kiryat HaYovel and other areas. The city is home to the Centre for Ethiopian Jewish Heritage and several traditional synagogues led by kessim, alongside a broad housing market.

More about the city →

Who is eligible?

Any household where at least one criterion holds:

One of the spouses was born in Ethiopia
One of the spouses' parents was born in Ethiopia
The couple is defined as "Falash Mura" with confirmed aliyah

Loan terms

Amount: ₪600,000
Term: 25 years
Rate: 0% for the first 10 years, 2% for the next 15
Down payment: 5% of property value
Registration: ₪70 at a participating bank branch (annual lottery)

How to apply

Register at a participating bank branch (Leumi / Discount / Igud)
Wait for annual lottery results (~200 winners)
On winning, the bank sends approval to sign a purchase contract
Submit documents: ID, income proof, absorption-program confirmation (if relevant)

Quick eligibility check — mortgage calculator.

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Ethiopian community in Jerusalem

Community population: ~30,000
Share of city: ~4%
Main neighbourhoods: גונדר, קרית היובל, פסגת זאב
Community services: מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP

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FAQ — Jerusalem

How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Jerusalem?: The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Jerusalem numbers approximately ~30,000 residents — around ~4% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: גונדר, קרית היובל, פסגת זאב.
How do I claim Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis in Jerusalem?: Apply via the Government Housing Authority website or the local Ministry of Construction office in Jerusalem. For support: מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP.
What community support is available in Jerusalem for this right?: In Jerusalem, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: מרכז מורשת יהדות אתיופיה, ENP.

Mortgage Guide for Ethiopian-Israelis 2026

Complete guide to all mortgage programs available to Ethiopian-Israelis: the 600K loan, Homot grant, 90% financing eligibility, and special interest tracks.

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Military Discharge Benefits for Ethiopian-Israeli Veterans

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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Free Mortgage Counselling — Guide for Those Entitled

The Ministry of Housing funds free mortgage counselling for housing benefit recipients. A certified adviser saves tens of thousands of ILS in interest.