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Renewing Your A5 Visa

  • Writer: mixedneshamot
    mixedneshamot
  • May 15
  • 2 min read

A Mixed Neshamot Guide


This is your sign to go check when your current A5 visa expires… RUN!


Renewals are meant to be easy—almost automatic. But if you’ve dealt with Misrad HaPnim (MH) before, you already know: they never miss a chance to keep things interesting. Even after years in Israel, proving your good intentions and real love is still very much a thing.

So here’s a practical guide to help you through the renewal process with a little less stress.


Disclaimer:

This list is based on the official requirements from MH and Ana’s last renewal at the Jerusalem Center Branch in July 2024. Your experience might vary depending on your branch, the clerk, or even the day of the week (seriously).


How Many Times Do I Have to Renew?

Married or not, you’ll need to renew at least 3 times. You must spend a minimum of 4 years on the A5 visa before you can apply for permanent residency or citizenship.


There are exceptions where you may need to renew more often—like:


  • Spending extended time abroad

  • Missing documents

  • MH being in a “special” mood


 Main Recommendations

  • Both partners must be present. If your Israeli partner is in Miluim (army reserve duty), you might be allowed to drop papers, but not do the actual renewal interview.

  • Be organized. For example: if your visa expires in October 2024, aim to drop your papers in July/August, and ask MH for a drop-off appointment around June/July.

  • Some branches now offer online processes or same-day paper drop-offs, so double-check your branch's method.


What to Bring – Part I

Basic IDs & Photos


  • Your passport (valid for at least 18 more months)

  • Your Teudat Zehut (temporary resident card)

  • Your partner’s Teudat Zehut

  • 2 passport photos (of the foreigner)

  • Israeli credit card (no cash accepted)

    • In JLM Center: use the QR code to pay online


What to Bring – Part II

Household Documents


  • Rental or ownership contract

  • Utility bills (water, electric, gas – last 6 months)

  • Arnona bills

  • Parking permit (if you have one)

💬 If both names aren’t on documents, attach a letter from the landlord confirming you live together.


What to Bring – Part III

Personal and Financial Documents


  • Payslips from both of you (last 6 months)

  • Work contract (okay if not in Hebrew)

  • Bank statement/balance (download from your bank app)

  • Kupat Cholim membership paper (can be requested in person)


What to Bring – Part IV

Proof of Relationship


  • Letters from friends/family:

    • We recommend at least 5. Some clerks ask for 10+.

    • Short and sincere. Must include the writer’s TZ copy.

  • Photos:

    • Try to include 1 photo per month.

    • Arrange 4 per page with a brief Hebrew description.


What to Bring – Part V

Random but Important Extras


  • Original certificates + copies:

    • Wedding certificate

    • Single certificate

    • Birth certificate

    • Criminal record

  • Car license, if you have one

  • Chat screenshots (WhatsApp/SMS):

    • Aim for 1 screenshot per month


Final Advice

Always expect a plot twist from MH. Bring more than you think you’ll need and keep digital copies of everything. And remember: each renewal brings you closer to your permanent status!


Have tips or a different experience at your branch?


Share it in the comments! Let’s help each other get through this process with community, humor, and love. 💙

 
 
 

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