General Information:
Visiting researchers must arrange an overseas full health insurance, that will cover emergency services and hospitalization, prior to their arrival in Israel (in their country of origin), or join a local insurance plan, upon arrival. It is possible to purchase such insurance from any of the recognized National Health Funds (called Kupat Holim in Hebrew).
It is strongly advised to purchase a supplementary insurance that includes:
- Dental insurance
- Accident and Disability Insurance
- Maternity Costs (Pregnancy and delivery-related care and hospitalization)
Please check for specific health insurance arrangements with each university's Mobility Center.
Health Tips:
Sunburn and Heat Stroke:
The sun is very strong in Israel, so protect your skin with clothing or sun screen, and wear a head cover outdoors, as well as sunglasses. Be careful and avoid extended exposure to the sun, especially at the beach or swimming pool. In warm weather, drink regularly whether you feel thirsty or not, and if you have children, ensure that they do the same. Symptoms of dehydration include a headache, nausea, failure to urinate and fainting. Be aware and drink a lot!
Weather and Clothing:
Israel's climate ranges from temperate to tropical, with plenty of sunshine. Two distinct seasons predominate a rainy winter period from November to April and a dry summer season from May to October. Rainfall is relatively heavy in the north and center of the country, with much less in the northern Negev and almost negligible amounts in the southern areas. Regional conditions vary considerably, with humid summers and mild winters on the coastline, dry summers, and moderately cold winters in the hill regions (Jerusalem), hot dry summers and pleasant winters in the Jordan Valley, and year-round semi-desert conditions in the Negev. Weather extremes range from occasional winter snowfall at higher elevations to periodic oppressively hot dry winds which send temperatures soaring, particularly in spring and autumn.
For information about the weather, please visit the following weather report link: AccuWeather
Useful Tips:
- The dress in Israel is generally informal.
- In summer, easy-care cotton and other lightweight fabrics are recommended.
- Protect yourself from the sun - a hat and sunglasses, sunblock and a water bottle are essential.
- Winter gets much colder, warm wear is required, especially in the evenings.
- It often rains, and a raincoat and umbrella are required.