For many Anglos living abroad, especially parents from the U.S. or U.K., returning to Israel can bring up serious legal and financial concerns. One of the most common issues is child support debt in Israel and the possibility of being stopped from leaving the country due to an exit order (travel ban).
Imagine this: Bituach Leumi (National Insurance) has been paying child support directly to your ex-spouse for years. Now, before coming back to Israel, you want to know whether you personally owe child support—and whether there’s a risk of being stopped at the airport.
Step 1: How to Check for Child Support Debt in Israel
If National Insurance advanced child support payments on your behalf, a child support debt may have been created in your name. This debt is enforced through the Enforcement and Collection Authority (Hotza’a Lapoal).
👉 To check your child support debt status in Israel:
- Contact the Enforcement and Collection Authority. You cannot resolve this directly with Bituach Leumi.
- Call their information center at *35592 for updates on your case.
Tip for Anglos: If you’re living abroad and find it difficult to navigate the Hebrew system, consider appointing an Israeli lawyer to check on your behalf.
Step 2: How to Check If You Have an Exit Order in Israel
It’s just as important to confirm whether you have an exit order (עיכוב יציאה מהארץ) against you. Many parents only discover this restriction at Ben Gurion Airport, sometimes minutes before boarding a flight.
Here are the main ways to check if you have an exit ban in Israel:
- Ministry of Justice Digital Service – Visit the official gov.il website, log in with your Israeli ID and phone number, and get instant results.
- Enforcement and Collection Authority – If your debt is tied to child support, confirm directly with Hotza’a Lapoal whether an exit order has been issued (*35592).
- Through an Israeli Lawyer – A lawyer can access court systems, confirm your legal status, and even request the removal or modification of a travel ban.
Why It’s Crucial to Check Before Returning to Israel
Unresolved child support debt in Israel can create serious problems, including:
- Bank account seizures
- Travel restrictions (exit orders)
- Being stopped at the airport when leaving Israel
For Anglos returning to Israel, these issues can come as a shock, especially if the debt dates back years. By checking in advance, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and protect your freedom of movement.
Bottom Line: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If you suspect you may have child support debt in Israel or an exit order, take action before arriving in Israel.
✅ Confirm with the Enforcement and Collection Authority whether a case exists.
✅ Check if an exit ban has been issued against you.
✅ Get legal help in Israel if your case is complicated.
By being proactive, you can save money, stress, and—most importantly—prevent being stopped at the airport.
