Yes, the trip is free, but a fully refundable $360 USD / $450 CAD deposit is required to be considered for a trip. Here's how it works...
FLEXIBLE CANCELLATION POLICY
Due to the current security situation in Israel, we're temporarily extending the cancellation deadlines for trips departing in May and June. For May departures, the updated last day to withdraw without penalty is 10 days before departure. For departures the rest of the summer, the updated last day to withdraw without penalty is 30 days before departure. We are optimistic that quiet will be restored, but we hope this additional flexibility will give you the peace of mind and patience as you look forward to our summer travels together.
Is the deposit really refundable?
Yes! You'll get your deposit back as long as you: (a) go on the trip, (b) withdraw before being confirmed on a trip, or (c) cancel a confirmed trip at least 65 days before departure. You'll only lose your deposit if you are confirmed on a trip and cancel after the deadline, or if you fail to abide by the basic rules of Birthright Israel.
Cancellation refund deadlines are based on your departure date. Use the calculator below to determine your last refund deadline (30 days for trips June 1st through the end of the summer)!
Select your departure date:
You must cancel by: to receive a refund of your deposit
Why is a deposit necessary?
All applicants must submit a refundable deposit in order to complete the application. The reason? Birthright Israel spends a lot of money on each participant, and the refundable deposit helps ensure you're committed to going!
Since the trip is truly FREE, you'll get refunded within 3-4 weeks of the trip ending
How to pay the deposit?
Submit your deposit as part of the Birthright Israel application via PayPal or credit card. A $25 non-refundable processing fee applies. If you do not travel in the season you registered for and wish to avoid paying the non-refundable processing fee again, the deposit can be rolled over to future seasons.
If you aren't selected for a trip or cancel before the deadline, you'll receive the $360 USD / $450 CAD deposit back to your card. If you go on a trip, Birthright Israel will email instructions to request a refund. Refunds are issued on the same card used to pay the deposit.
How is the deposit refunded?
Your deposit will be refunded to your original method of payment if:
1) You aren't placed on a trip or don't confirm a spot offered to you
2) You are confirmed on a trip and cancel before the deadline (see above)
3) You go on the trip – the best choice!
If you do not go on a trip, you may request a deposit refund at any time. If you do go, you'll receive an email from Birthright Israel after the trip prompting you to request a deposit refund or to donate some/all of the deposit. It's your choice.
NOTE: You'll have 30 days after your trip ends to request a deposit refund. After that, Birthright Israel assumes you want your deposit used to help fund future travelers.
Your application will ONLY be considered complete once you submit the $360 USD / $450 CAD refundable trip deposit. The sooner you complete the application, the better your chances of getting on the trip you want.