Includes steps involved in establishing a local office.
Last Published: 12/10/2019

A U.S. firm can operate in Israel as a foreign company, a foreign partnership or by establishing a branch office. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of Israeli companies or securities, although the Israel Antitrust Authority may review and object to foreign ownerships that would result in a cartel or market monopoly.

U.S. businesses interested in establishing an office in Israel are required to register with the Registrar of Companies at the Israel Ministry of Justice. The business must file a copy of documents certifying that it is incorporated in the United States, state its objectives and rules, and list its directors and the name of its Israeli representative. If these documents are in English, they must be accompanied by a Hebrew translation. There is no requirement for the managers or directors of the company to be Israeli citizens or residents. However, U.S. representatives assigned to manage the Israeli office must first obtain work permits from the Employment Service Division of the Ministry of Economy. Authorization from the Ministry and, if applicable, the Israel Investment Center, is necessary before the Ministry of Interior can issue a visa. 

Israel allows repatriation of foreign investment capital and profits. Prior to establishing an office in Israel, U.S. firms should evaluate tax ramifications under the U.S.-Israel Agreement on the Prevention of Double Taxation. Possible higher corporate and income taxes in Israel should be weighed against other expenditures and marketing advantages. U.S. businesses establishing an office in Israel are advised to consult with local accounting and/or law firms.
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.