Mazal tov — you're making Aliyah! One of the first practical steps after landing in Israel is getting connected: an Israeli phone number for banks, Bituach Leumi, Misrad HaPnim, your landlord, and everyday life. Here's how to do it without losing your original number or paying carrier fees.
Why you need an Israeli number on day 1
Almost every essential service in Israel requires a local mobile number to verify your identity, send OTP codes, or reach you. Without one, you'll struggle to:
- Open a bank account (Bank Hapoalim, Leumi, Discount, Mizrahi)
- Register at Misrad HaPnim for your Teudat Zehut
- Sign up for Kupat Holim (Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, Leumit)
- Use Israeli delivery apps (Wolt, 10bis, Tipax)
- Receive bank OTP codes (most banks block foreign numbers)
eSIM vs physical SIM for new Olim
Going to a Cellcom, Partner, or Pelephone store with limited Hebrew can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. An eSIM solves all three problems: you order online before you land, activate by QR on arrival, and pay 50% less than carrier monthly fees.
Keep WhatsApp on your old number
Your WhatsApp stays linked to your original SIM. Adding an Israeli eSIM lets you have both numbers active simultaneously on a dual-SIM phone — perfect for staying in touch with family abroad while functioning locally.
Best monthly eSIM plans for residents
| Plan | Data | International calls | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 100 GB | 1 hour | ₪49.90/mo |
| Medium | 200 GB | 3 hours | ₪79.90/mo |
| Pro | 250 GB | 15 hours | ₪119.90/mo |
SMS-to-Mail — receive bank OTP codes by email
If you ever travel abroad or change your phone, missing an OTP code from your Israeli bank can be a disaster. Our SMS-to-Mail feature automatically forwards every SMS to your email, so you never miss a verification code even when you're outside Israel.
Mobile number portability for new Olim
Already have a French, US, UK, or Canadian number? You can keep it active as a virtual number on your eSIM Israel plan. Calls and SMS forward to your Israeli phone — useful for family, foreign banks, or business contacts who only have your old number.