Cell Phones and Technology Policy
Below is a quick review of our policies and considerations regarding technology in general and details about cell phone purchases in particular. We welcome any questions or comments.
Our aim is to create a nurturing and uplifting environment free from distractions, allowing Talmidim to fully immerse themselves in their learning and personal growth. Devices with internet connectivity or video capabilities are strictly prohibited.
Cell Phones
1) Fig Phones:
2) Subsidized Phones:
3) SIM Cards and Plans:
4) Texting Policy:
Travel Plans
Many of you are likely aware that El Al is one of the few airlines currently operating flights to and from Israel, as several international carriers have suspended their services. Therefore, if your son’s ticket is not already booked with El Al, we strongly advise you to review your travel plans. One option some are considering is flying to a European destination and then connecting to an El Al flight to Israel. If you are unsure of the best approach, it may be wise to consult with your travel agent to ensure that your son’s travel arrangements are secure.
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Israel's ETA System for Travelers
The start date for the ETA-IL has been postponed until January 1, 2025.
Tourists arriving in Israel on or after January 1, 2025, will need to apply for an ETA-IL using this link.
Who Needs an ETA-IL?
With the postponement of this requirement until January 1, 2025, in nearly all cases, a talmid will not require an ETA because he should already have a valid student visa by the time he next enters Israel after the Pesach Bein Hazmanim.
Exceptions:
There are situations where a talmid will not have a student visa and will need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). These include:
Voluntary ETA Application:
Interior Ministry officials have informed Chaim V’Chessed, an organization assisting English speakers in Israel, that prospective students must select ‘Short Term Study’ if they do not yet hold a student visa. Specify a stay of up to 90 days on your ETA application. Selecting the option of 'more than 90 days' will result in a system error declaring you ineligible for an ETA. This guidance is issued directly by the Ministry of the Interior (Misrad Hapnim).
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For Returning Talmidim: Student Visas
If your son's student visa expires before he returns home at the end of next year or if his passport was or will be renewed soon, we will need to apply for a new student visa.
If this applies to you, please send a copy of the passport and a colored copy of his original birth certificate to [email protected].
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Health Insurance
All Talmidim must have Israeli health insurance. Based on our experience and their reputation among Yeshivos and Seminaries, we recommend AIM.
Returning Talmidim must renew their Israeli health plan for the coming year. It does not automatically roll over.
Click here to access AIMs forms or visit their website at www.aim.co.il. Submit forms, payments, and any questions directly to AIM at [email protected]. AIM offers a discount if you register before August 1st.
You can consider using a different Israeli health insurance plan, provided your son is aware of the procedures and is able to communicate in Hebrew with their doctors and secretarial staff. If you choose another Israeli health insurance company, please provide us with the plan details, policy number, and expiration date.
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Gym Use Clearance
As per the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health, we now require all talmidim to have clearance from a medical professional before using our gym facilities.
If your son has AIM health insurance, he should have submitted the AIM medical form signed by a doctor (stating there are no restrictions on physical activities) and will, therefore, not be required to send us the signed fitness authorization form.
However, if your son has signed up with a different health insurance provider, please download the Fitness Authorization form here and ensure that this form is completed by your son's doctor and then email it to us.
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Zman Dates
Please ensure that you have a valid passport and purchase tickets according to the dates listed below:
Elul Zman 5784:
Elul Zman will start IY”H on Wednesday, the 1st of Elul 5784 / September 4th, 2024. There is regular seder Wednesday morning, and therefore, all Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Tuesday evening, September 3rd, 2024. The dormitory will open on Sunday.
The Zman concludes Motzei Yom Kippur, 5785 / October 12th, 2024.
Winter Zman 5785:
Winter Zman will start IY''H on Sunday, the 2nd of Cheshvan/ November 3rd, 2024. There is regular seder Sunday afternoon.
The Winter Zman will conclude on Thursday evening, March 20th, 2025 (20th of Adar).
Typically, the Zman ends a week after Purim, around the 22nd of Adar or later. However, this year, the 22nd falls out on Shabbos. We understand Talmidim will want to be home for Shabbos, so we've decided to end the Zman two days earlier.
We must insist on Talmidim not leaving before this date in order for the Zman to remain strong until the very end. Therefore, we ask that you please refrain from purchasing tickets for flights leaving before Thursday night.
We understand the challenges in securing tickets to and from Israel, given the current situation and limited supply. Therefore, to assist with your planning, we're announcing the end date now, earlier than usual. Please prioritize purchasing your son's tickets home ASAP, ensuring they are scheduled for Thursday evening or later.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
Summer Zman 5785:
Summer Zman begins IY''H on Tuesday, the 1st of Iyar/ April 29th, 2025. There is regular seder Tuesday morning and therefore, Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Monday evening, April 28th, 2025.
The Hanhala is working to confirm the date for the end of the Summer Zman. Due to multiple considerations, such as summer camps, it's not a simple decision and requires time for the various institutions to confirm their schedules with us. We will post this date as soon as it is available.
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Safety Concern - Electric Bikes and Scooters
We strongly discourage electric bikes. There are inherent safety issues, and injuries are not uncommon. Driving in Israel can be more challenging than what the Talmidim are used to at home. The Ministry of Transportation mandates specific rules and regulations. Click here to read more about safety rules. If they are not fulfilled, then ch”v in case of an accident, your son's health insurance may not cover the costs.
IMPORTANT UPDATE
Starting August 1, 2024, Israel will require all electric bike and scooter owners to register their vehicles and attach a license plate, as announced by the Ministry of Transportation. This applies to both Israeli and foreign citizens. Foreigners can use their valid foreign license for one year after entry into Israel, after which they must obtain an Israeli license. Those without a driver’s license must pass a written test to obtain a special license for light vehicles. Registration requires details like the applicant's ID, manufacturer's name, and vehicle serial number. Once registered, a license plate must be affixed to the vehicle at a service center for a fee of 70 NIS. Currently, registration requires a phone capable of receiving SMS, which the Ministry is working to address. Click here for more information and here to register.
A Talmid who purchases an electric bike must understand the responsibility that he is taking upon himself. We ask you to impress upon your son the importance of taking the necessary precautions to keep him and others around him safe.
May Hashem continue to keep all our Talmidim safe!
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Information for New Talmidim
Student Visa Regulations
Most countries' student visa regulations require the application process to be completed at the consulate or embassy in the student's home country before arrival.
In Israel, the Ministry of Interior understands the challenges faced by students intending to study in Israel for the year (consider the impossible situation of over 16,000 students applying for student visas at their local consulates!) and allows and prefers Yeshivos and Seminaries to apply for visas after arrival. This process is facilitated in bulk through the Yeshiva, and all visa applications are done online.
While major airlines like El Al are familiar with this practice and usually do not cause any problems, there might be occasional issues with smaller airlines or overzealous gate agents who are unaware of the Ministry of Interiors policy.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is therefore recommended:
The source of the issue is unclear, and our government representatives have made efforts to address it. While the likelihood of this happening is extremely low (it has happened once to one of our Talmidim in the past nine years, and we heard it happens rarely in other Yeshivos and Seminaries), being informed can help if such a situation arises.
Below is a quick review of our policies and considerations regarding technology in general and details about cell phone purchases in particular. We welcome any questions or comments.
Our aim is to create a nurturing and uplifting environment free from distractions, allowing Talmidim to fully immerse themselves in their learning and personal growth. Devices with internet connectivity or video capabilities are strictly prohibited.
Cell Phones
1) Fig Phones:
- We require all new Talmidim to purchase the Fig phone and recommend it to returning Talmidim. Click here to learn more about Fig phones. These phones, built to be kosher, restrict access to the internet; there is no need to install third-party filters. They only allow access to Waze.
- We don't recommend the mini version, as it is not as dependable.
- You can purchase these phones wherever they are available.
2) Subsidized Phones:
- The regular cost of phones is $350 or more. However, a small organization will subsidize the cost to approximately $200 under certain circumstances. We've been in touch with them, and they have a limited, first-come-first-serve supply available to Toras Chaim Talmidim. Please note that they do not ship these phones; you must go in person and explain that you are from Toras Chaim. It is best to contact them first to ensure they still have phones in stock. You can call or email them for more information.
- For subsidized phones in the Lakewood area, please text: Rabbi Seruya: 212-444-1798 or Rabbi Steinberg: 347-277-2676
- For Brooklyn, visit Machane Kadosh at 1622 Coney Island Ave, Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 4 PM, or call 718-975-2941.
- Or email [email protected].
- Mention you are from Toras Chaim and were recommended by Reb Avrumi Cohn, the Av Bayis, to purchase a Fig phone at the subsidized price. Ask them if they still have phones in stock. If you do not live near these locations, you may consider having your son contact a friend to pick up the phone for him.
3) SIM Cards and Plans:
- We recommend that Talmidim purchase SIM cards and plans through Cellular Israel, as we've had a good experience working with them. Click here.
4) Texting Policy:
- We are in touch with the Fig phone company and are exploring the possibility of text-locking throughout the day and allowing texting bein hasdarim. Phones will then be submitted to the Av Bayis when your son arrives at Yeshiva for text-blocking.
Travel Plans
Many of you are likely aware that El Al is one of the few airlines currently operating flights to and from Israel, as several international carriers have suspended their services. Therefore, if your son’s ticket is not already booked with El Al, we strongly advise you to review your travel plans. One option some are considering is flying to a European destination and then connecting to an El Al flight to Israel. If you are unsure of the best approach, it may be wise to consult with your travel agent to ensure that your son’s travel arrangements are secure.
---
Israel's ETA System for Travelers
The start date for the ETA-IL has been postponed until January 1, 2025.
Tourists arriving in Israel on or after January 1, 2025, will need to apply for an ETA-IL using this link.
Who Needs an ETA-IL?
- Talmidim with Israeli Citizenship: Exempt from this process.
- Talmidim with Valid Student Visas: Also exempt.
With the postponement of this requirement until January 1, 2025, in nearly all cases, a talmid will not require an ETA because he should already have a valid student visa by the time he next enters Israel after the Pesach Bein Hazmanim.
Exceptions:
There are situations where a talmid will not have a student visa and will need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization). These include:
- He previously did not have a student visa and returned to Yeshiva after we applied for student visas.
- He neglected to submit the required information to apply for a student visa in time.
- He lost his passport, and the new one does not have a student visa connected with it.
- He turns 18 later in the year and did not subsequently get a student visa.
- He plans on returning home after January 1st for a family simcha, but the student visa process was not completed yet.
- Other similar reasons.
Voluntary ETA Application:
- Travelers can still apply for an ETA voluntarily even if they have a student visa by the time they next enter Israel.
- Why do it now? Maybe you will be one of the exceptional cases above.
- Additionally, the authorization will be valid for unlimited entries into Israel for two years, so it may be worthwhile to apply now. It's also currently free of charge during the pilot stage and will eventually have a small 25 NIS fee.
Interior Ministry officials have informed Chaim V’Chessed, an organization assisting English speakers in Israel, that prospective students must select ‘Short Term Study’ if they do not yet hold a student visa. Specify a stay of up to 90 days on your ETA application. Selecting the option of 'more than 90 days' will result in a system error declaring you ineligible for an ETA. This guidance is issued directly by the Ministry of the Interior (Misrad Hapnim).
----
For Returning Talmidim: Student Visas
If your son's student visa expires before he returns home at the end of next year or if his passport was or will be renewed soon, we will need to apply for a new student visa.
If this applies to you, please send a copy of the passport and a colored copy of his original birth certificate to [email protected].
----
Health Insurance
All Talmidim must have Israeli health insurance. Based on our experience and their reputation among Yeshivos and Seminaries, we recommend AIM.
Returning Talmidim must renew their Israeli health plan for the coming year. It does not automatically roll over.
Click here to access AIMs forms or visit their website at www.aim.co.il. Submit forms, payments, and any questions directly to AIM at [email protected]. AIM offers a discount if you register before August 1st.
You can consider using a different Israeli health insurance plan, provided your son is aware of the procedures and is able to communicate in Hebrew with their doctors and secretarial staff. If you choose another Israeli health insurance company, please provide us with the plan details, policy number, and expiration date.
----
Gym Use Clearance
As per the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health, we now require all talmidim to have clearance from a medical professional before using our gym facilities.
If your son has AIM health insurance, he should have submitted the AIM medical form signed by a doctor (stating there are no restrictions on physical activities) and will, therefore, not be required to send us the signed fitness authorization form.
However, if your son has signed up with a different health insurance provider, please download the Fitness Authorization form here and ensure that this form is completed by your son's doctor and then email it to us.
----
Zman Dates
Please ensure that you have a valid passport and purchase tickets according to the dates listed below:
Elul Zman 5784:
Elul Zman will start IY”H on Wednesday, the 1st of Elul 5784 / September 4th, 2024. There is regular seder Wednesday morning, and therefore, all Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Tuesday evening, September 3rd, 2024. The dormitory will open on Sunday.
The Zman concludes Motzei Yom Kippur, 5785 / October 12th, 2024.
Winter Zman 5785:
Winter Zman will start IY''H on Sunday, the 2nd of Cheshvan/ November 3rd, 2024. There is regular seder Sunday afternoon.
The Winter Zman will conclude on Thursday evening, March 20th, 2025 (20th of Adar).
Typically, the Zman ends a week after Purim, around the 22nd of Adar or later. However, this year, the 22nd falls out on Shabbos. We understand Talmidim will want to be home for Shabbos, so we've decided to end the Zman two days earlier.
We must insist on Talmidim not leaving before this date in order for the Zman to remain strong until the very end. Therefore, we ask that you please refrain from purchasing tickets for flights leaving before Thursday night.
We understand the challenges in securing tickets to and from Israel, given the current situation and limited supply. Therefore, to assist with your planning, we're announcing the end date now, earlier than usual. Please prioritize purchasing your son's tickets home ASAP, ensuring they are scheduled for Thursday evening or later.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!
Summer Zman 5785:
Summer Zman begins IY''H on Tuesday, the 1st of Iyar/ April 29th, 2025. There is regular seder Tuesday morning and therefore, Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Monday evening, April 28th, 2025.
The Hanhala is working to confirm the date for the end of the Summer Zman. Due to multiple considerations, such as summer camps, it's not a simple decision and requires time for the various institutions to confirm their schedules with us. We will post this date as soon as it is available.
----
Safety Concern - Electric Bikes and Scooters
We strongly discourage electric bikes. There are inherent safety issues, and injuries are not uncommon. Driving in Israel can be more challenging than what the Talmidim are used to at home. The Ministry of Transportation mandates specific rules and regulations. Click here to read more about safety rules. If they are not fulfilled, then ch”v in case of an accident, your son's health insurance may not cover the costs.
IMPORTANT UPDATE
Starting August 1, 2024, Israel will require all electric bike and scooter owners to register their vehicles and attach a license plate, as announced by the Ministry of Transportation. This applies to both Israeli and foreign citizens. Foreigners can use their valid foreign license for one year after entry into Israel, after which they must obtain an Israeli license. Those without a driver’s license must pass a written test to obtain a special license for light vehicles. Registration requires details like the applicant's ID, manufacturer's name, and vehicle serial number. Once registered, a license plate must be affixed to the vehicle at a service center for a fee of 70 NIS. Currently, registration requires a phone capable of receiving SMS, which the Ministry is working to address. Click here for more information and here to register.
A Talmid who purchases an electric bike must understand the responsibility that he is taking upon himself. We ask you to impress upon your son the importance of taking the necessary precautions to keep him and others around him safe.
May Hashem continue to keep all our Talmidim safe!
-----
Information for New Talmidim
- General Information Document: This document provides important details about your son's year in Yeshiva, including seforim, dorm room, Shabbos policy, laundry service, how to order pillows, blankets, and linen, trip schedule, tuition refund policy, visiting parents, rules and regulations, etc. Click here to review.
- Frequently Asked Questions: We recommend visiting our "FAQ" page here. It currently lists the 35 most frequently asked questions by parents.
- College Credits Options: Yeshiva Toras Chaim is not accredited. However, like any yeshiva, we can provide a transcript listing credits for learning completed at the yeshiva. These credits can be transferred to any college that accepts non-accredited credits, subject to their requirements and limitations. Institutions like Touro, FDU (Fairleigh Dickinson University), and BTL programs recognize these non-accredited yeshiva credits. We also offer additional college credit options. Click here for more details. Please note that much of this information will be updated as we hear back from the various institutions at the beginning of the new year. As always, the information is subject to change and is updated periodically.
- Ordering Blankets, Pillows, and Linen: To make your travel to the Yeshiva more convenient, you may want to consider ordering blankets, pillows, and linen in advance. This will help lighten your luggage load. You can place your order through the following link https://blanketexpressplus.com.
- What is the Yeshiva's address? The Yeshiva's address is 7 Harikma Street, Romema, Yerushalayim. We are about a two-minute walk from Center One. Click here to find us on Google Maps (please disregard the photos, they are from eleven years ago!).
- How do I enter the building? New Talmidim will have their facial recognition registered into the entrance system shortly after arrival. When entering the building for the first time, they should either enter with a returning Talmid or seek assistance from our 24/7 security guard stationed at the Yeshiva entrance due to the current situation.
- Is there someone I can call in case of an emergency when arriving? In an emergency, contact Reb Avrumie Cohen, our Av Bayis, at 972-54-841-1030 (054-841-1030 in Israel).
- How do I know which dorm room to go to? Where can I find the bedding I ordered from Blanket Express? Where do I store my luggage? Signs will be posted in Yeshiva with all relevant information.
- Do I need a student visa to enter Israel?
- The short answer: it's not required for the new Talmidim. Tourists are allowed entry and do not require special entry permits. Student visas are still required when staying in Israel longer than three months. Therefore, new Talmidim will apply for student visas after they arrive in Israel.
- Please read our more detailed response with additional essential information in the following section below.
Student Visa Regulations
Most countries' student visa regulations require the application process to be completed at the consulate or embassy in the student's home country before arrival.
In Israel, the Ministry of Interior understands the challenges faced by students intending to study in Israel for the year (consider the impossible situation of over 16,000 students applying for student visas at their local consulates!) and allows and prefers Yeshivos and Seminaries to apply for visas after arrival. This process is facilitated in bulk through the Yeshiva, and all visa applications are done online.
While major airlines like El Al are familiar with this practice and usually do not cause any problems, there might be occasional issues with smaller airlines or overzealous gate agents who are unaware of the Ministry of Interiors policy.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is therefore recommended:
- to use standard airlines when possible when traveling to Yeshiva as a tourist
- carry a copy of the email acceptance letter from Yeshiva and print our visa application procedure letter here
- arrive at the airport with enough time to deal with any check-in issues without missing the flight. Politely argue the case, stating that student visa renewal is standard in Yeshivos. Ask to speak with a supervisor.
- bring a credit card with you and consider purchasing a refundable one-way return ticket with no penalty, ensuring your son has proof of a return ticket within the tourist visa duration. You can cancel the ticket after he safely arrives in Israel.
The source of the issue is unclear, and our government representatives have made efforts to address it. While the likelihood of this happening is extremely low (it has happened once to one of our Talmidim in the past nine years, and we heard it happens rarely in other Yeshivos and Seminaries), being informed can help if such a situation arises.