How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Rishon LeZion?

The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Rishon LeZion numbers approximately ~12,000 residents — around ~8% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: רמת אליהו, נחלה.

What community support is available in Rishon LeZion for this right?

In Rishon LeZion, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי.

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

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

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 Rishon LeZion

Rishon LeZion is home to a large, active Israeli-Ethiopian community, historically concentrated in the Ramat Eliyahu neighbourhood — originally built as absorption housing and now a long-standing community centre. The neighbourhood is at the heart of urban-renewal efforts, alongside a growing second-generation presence across the city.

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 Rishon LeZion

Community population: ~12,000
Share of city: ~8%
Main neighbourhoods: רמת אליהו, נחלה
Community services: תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי

More rights in Rishon LeZion

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FAQ — Rishon LeZion

How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Rishon LeZion?: The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Rishon LeZion numbers approximately ~12,000 residents — around ~8% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: רמת אליהו, נחלה.
How do I claim Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis in Rishon LeZion?: Apply via the Government Housing Authority website or the local Ministry of Construction office in Rishon LeZion. For support: תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי.
What community support is available in Rishon LeZion for this right?: In Rishon LeZion, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי.

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.