Losing a loved one is never easy, and when the wish is to be buried in Eretz Yisrael, families face both emotional and logistical challenges. This guide outlines the exact process for arranging a burial in Israel from the United States, ensuring that everything is handled with dignity, efficiency, and in full accordance with Jewish law.
1. Initial Contact with a Local Funeral Home
The first step is to reach out to a reputable funeral home in your area that has experience with international repatriation to Israel.
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Inform them immediately of your desire for burial in Israel.
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Ensure they understand the specific religious requirements involved in Jewish burial.
2. Preparing the Body According to Halacha
For a Jewish burial, preparation of the body is done through the tahara process, performed by a Chevra Kadisha.
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This involves washing the body with great care, dressing it in tachrichim (simple white shrouds), and placing it in a halachically approved casket.
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In most cases, Jewish tradition requires a plain wooden coffin with no metal parts.
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Embalming is not permitted according to halacha unless legally required by local authorities — in which case, rabbinic guidance should be sought.
3. Airline Requirements
Transporting a deceased person internationally requires following airline and TSA regulations:
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A death certificate and burial permit are mandatory.
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The casket must be placed in an airline-approved shipping container.
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Many airlines have dedicated cargo services for human remains — El Al, for example, operates direct flights to Tel Aviv for faster transport.
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Book flights as soon as possible, as Jewish tradition encourages burial without delay.
4. Israeli Customs Clearance
Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, the shipment must clear Israeli customs.
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Documentation from the U.S., including the death certificate, shipping manifest, and Chevra Kadisha paperwork, will be reviewed.
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In most cases, a representative from the Chevra Kadisha in Israel will be present to receive the casket and assist with customs clearance.
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When arranged properly, this process is usually completed within 1–2 hours of landing.
5. Chevra Kadisha Reception and Burial Arrangements
Once cleared, the casket is transported directly to the chosen cemetery in Israel.
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The local Chevra Kadisha will perform any final preparations and coordinate the funeral.
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Family members who have traveled from abroad can meet at the cemetery for the burial service.
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Burial usually takes place the same day as arrival to honor the Jewish principle of kvod hamet (respect for the deceased) and to avoid unnecessary delay.
Final Thoughts
While the process of transferring a loved one from the U.S. to Israel involves many steps, working with experienced professionals ensures everything is handled with respect, speed, and care. At Land of Israel Burials, we guide families through each stage — from the first phone call to the final moments at the graveside — making sure the wishes of your loved one are fulfilled according to halacha and with the honor they deserve.
