Program Dates 2024

1 week = 5 days on base
(arrive on base on a Sunday, depart base on a Thursday)

2 & 3 week durations are simply repeats of 1 week.

You need to find your own accommodation Thur-Sun.

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Schedule and Requirements

Volunteers for Israel offers 1- 2- and 3-week IDF Base Programs throughout the year. Volunteers wishing to arrange longer service should inquire in advance.

NOTE: Effective January 1, 2016: There will be NO Monday Start Dates. All Programs will start on Sunday only.

Two- and three-week programs: Your flight must be scheduled to arrive by 12 p.m. on Sunday.

One-week programs: Your flight must be scheduled to arrive by 8 a.m. on Sunday. This might require arriving in Israel before Sunday and arranging an overnight stay.

If you plan to be in Israel before your program start date, you must call the Sar-El Program Coordinator in advance for meeting instructions for the day your program begins. Ask your regional representative for details.

On the program start date, Sar-El meets and transports volunteers to their bases. See the Transportation Section of our Program Handbook for additional details.

Organized groups of 10 or more may start any Sunday and do a 1-, 2- or 3- week program.

Birthright extensions may start any Sunday immediately after the end of the Birthright trip. 

Flight Arrangements

After you are accepted to the program, you are responsible for booking your flight to Israel and filling out the Travel Form that is part of your Application package. If you want to compare airline prices, we recommend that you consult with a local travel agent or check online for a complete list of the airlines that fly into Ben-Gurion Airport. Many volunteers use El Al, the national airline of Israel. Ask your regional representative for information about El Al discounts. 

Passport and Visa Requirements

If possible, you should renew your passport approximately nine (9) months before it expires. To enter Israel, you must have a passport valid for at least six months after your departure date. Therefore, for a typical 3-week program you should have 7+ months remaining on your passport. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met.

For most U.S. citizens, a tourist visa is not required unless you plan to stay in Israel longer than 90 days.