A/3 — Clergy Visa (A/3)

The A/3 Clergy Visa is a temporary resident classification specifically for religious clergy and members of recognized religious institutions who are invited to Israel to perform official religious duties. This visa is intended for individuals such as ordained ministers, priests, rabbis, and other religious functionaries who will be serving their faith communities within the country. Because this visa is tied to a specific religious role, the application process must be initiated by the inviting religious institution in Israel, which must demonstrate the necessity of the clergyman's presence and their commitment to the individual's activities and eventual departure from the country.

Applicants for the A/3 visa must provide evidence of their religious qualifications, such as ordination credentials or theological training certificates, and must await the approval of their application from outside of Israel before traveling. The visa is subject to strict oversight by the Ministry of Interior, and holders are expected to limit their activities strictly to their religious mission. A mandatory requirement for this visa is the maintenance of valid health insurance for the duration of the stay. While the initial visa is typically granted for one year, it may be renewed annually for up to five years, or longer under exceptional circumstances, provided the religious institution continues to justify the ongoing need for the clergyman's service.