Yes, the trip is free, but a fully refundable $250 deposit is required to be considered for a trip
As part of the Birthright Israel “Primary Application,” all applicants need to submit a $250 refundable trip deposit to be considered for a trip. The deposit can only be submitted online via the Paypal or Payoneer payment services. The deposit is paid via credit card (a $10 non-refundable processing fee applies).
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes! This is really a free trip. Your deposit will be refunded so long as you go on the trip, or so long as you withdraw before getting officially confirmed on a trip, or so long as you cancel off a confirmed trip at least 65 days before departure. You will only lose your deposit if you were confirmed on a trip and canceled after the 65-day deadline, or if you fail to abide by the basic rules of Birthright Israel.
Cancellation deadlines are based on your departure date. To determine the date of your cancellation deadline, use the handy calculator below!
Select your departure date
You must cancel by to receive a refund of your deposit.
Why is a deposit necessary?
Birthright Israel requires all applicants to submit a refundable deposit in order for your application to be considered complete. There is a good reason for this rule. Because the Birthright Israel organization spends a great deal of money on each participant, the refundable deposit is required to ensure that you really do intend to join the trip!
Of course, since the trip is truly free, the deposit will be fully refunded within 3 to 4 weeks following the end of the trip.
How does the deposit payment and refund process work?
The deposit can only be submitted online via the Paypal or Payoneer payment services. The deposit is paid via credit card (a $10 non-refundable processing fee applies).
If you are not selected for a trip or if you cancel a trip prior to the deadline, the $250 deposit will be refunded directly to your credit card. If you do take part in the program, you will receive an email directly from Birthright Israel with instructions on how to retrieve the deposit. Your deposit will be refunded directly to your credit card if you complete the program in full.
