Subsidies are where it’s easiest to run into outdated or inaccurate information — amounts and thresholds are revised regularly. So below is the logic and the process, and for exact figures we point you to official sources.
Step 01
Who generally qualifies for a subsidy
A subsidy toward kindergarten or nursery tuition in Israel is available to some families and is usually determined by a combination of criteria, not a single factor.
- Both parents’ employment — work, military service, or full-time studies;
- Total family income — the lower it is relative to set thresholds, the higher eligibility usually is;
- Family status — for example, a single parent or a large family may qualify for broader terms;
- The child’s age and the type of institution — rules for nurseries and for kindergartens age 3+ may differ.
In short
A subsidy isn’t automatic — it needs to be applied for separately, and eligibility is determined by a combination of factors, not a single criterion.
Step 02
What the amount depends on
The subsidy amount isn’t a fixed sum — it’s the result of a calculation based on several parameters at once:
- Family income level relative to set thresholds;
- Parents’ number of working hours;
- Number of children in the family;
- The city and the institution’s status — whether it participates in the state subsidy program.
We deliberately don’t list specific amounts or income thresholds here — the state revises them regularly, and an outdated figure can mislead more than having none at all.
— worth keeping in mind with any subsidy material
Step 03
Which kindergartens participate in the program
A subsidy is usually tied not just to family parameters but also to the institution’s own status — it needs to be recognized by the state and participate in the relevant program.
- Municipal kindergartens and nurseries are usually included in the subsidy system by default;
- Some private maons also participate in government programs — worth checking with the specific institution;
- Institutions without a license or outside recognized programs don’t qualify for a subsidy, even if the family formally meets the income criteria.
A sensible order: first check with your chosen kindergarten whether it participates in a subsidy program, and only then focus on the possible amount of support.
Step 04
How and where to apply
Applying for a subsidy is usually a separate process from enrollment — through the relevant ministry or the municipality’s social services department.
- Check with the municipality or the ministry directly which specific program applies to your situation;
- Gather a set of documents on both parents’ income and employment;
- Submit the application through the relevant portal or during the office hours of the relevant body;
- Wait for a decision and clarify how and where the subsidy will be paid — directly to the kindergarten or as a reimbursement to the family.
Step 05
Common mistakes when applying
- Submitting documents too late. Review takes time — it’s better to start the process early rather than in the last week before the school year begins.
- Not checking the kindergarten’s status in advance. Even with full income eligibility, the subsidy won’t be approved if the institution doesn’t participate in the program.
- Bringing outdated pay slips. Many bodies only accept pay slips from the last 1-3 months.
- Relying on figures from old articles or conversations with acquaintances. Conditions change year to year — the only reliable source is the official portal at the time of your inquiry.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get a subsidy if the kindergarten is private?
Yes, if that specific private maon participates in the government subsidy program. It’s worth checking directly with the institution before enrolling.
Does the subsidy cover the full cost of kindergarten?
Usually not — the subsidy reduces the cost by a certain amount or percentage depending on income and other criteria, rather than covering it in full. The exact amount is calculated individually.
Do you have to reapply for a subsidy every year?
In most cases, yes — income and family composition change, so eligibility and the amount are usually reassessed for each new school year.
Where can I check exact amounts and income thresholds for the current year?
Check current conditions on the official government portal (gov.il) or ask the municipality directly — the figures are updated regularly.
This material is for general informational purposes and describes the general logic of childcare subsidies in Israel. We deliberately don’t list specific amounts, income thresholds, or program lists — these are set by the state and change year to year. Check current conditions at the time of your inquiry on official portals, with the municipality, or directly with the kindergarten. This material is not financial or legal advice.
Looking for a kindergarten for your little one in Haifa?
Navon is a bilingual kindergarten (Hebrew and Russian) for children from 3 months to 5 years old. We’ll tell you how subsidies work with us.
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