Buying in Israel from Brazil (Transfers): Complete Brazilian Guide 2026

Buying in Israel from Brazil (Transfers): A Growing Market

Real estate purchases in Israel by Brazilians are experiencing remarkable momentum. Transferring funds from Brazil to Israel involves specific requirements that every Brazilian investor should understand. This trend is driven by the strength of the Israeli market, community and cultural ties, and a transparent legal framework that protects buyers from abroad.

Are you Brazilian and considering investing in Israel? This guide covers all the specifics of your situation: bilateral tax agreements, financing conditions, BRL/ILS currency transfers, and the cities favored by the Brazilian community. In short, everything you need to know to buy with confidence and avoid unpleasant surprises.

The purchase process is the same for all non-residents: selecting the property via IsraelStart, appointing a real estate lawyer in your language, setting up power of attorney, and turnkey support until you receive the keys. The difference? Tax nuances, fund transfer procedures, and local community networks.

Brazil-Israel Tax Treaty (Transfers): Avoiding Double Taxation

The IOF (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras) of 0.38% applies to any international transfer from Brazil. This fixed cost is added to the exchange rate spread. For a transfer of 500,000 BRL (about 450,000₪), the IOF represents around 1,900 BRL. In addition, there are exchange fees: Brazilian banks apply a spread of 1.5% to 3% on BRL/USD, then a second spread on USD/ILS.

The treaty provides for tax credit mechanisms that neutralize double taxation. In practice: you pay tax in Israel on your real estate income (flat rate 10%, real 15%, or progressive), then you declare this income in your country of residence with a corresponding tax credit. You never pay twice.

Capital gains (Mas Shevach, 25% in Israel) are treated according to the same principle. Your lawyer and a specialized tax advisor coordinate the declarations in both countries to optimize your overall tax burden.

Note: Failure to declare a foreign bank account exposes you to penalties in most countries. Make sure to declare your Israeli account to your tax authorities.

Financing: mashkanta for Non-Resident Brazilians

Alternative solutions to traditional bank transfers are particularly important for Brazilians. Remessa Online, Wise (formerly TransferWise), and Western Union Business Solutions offer spreads of 0.5-1% compared to 2-3% at banks. For large amounts (>1M BRL), a dedicated currency broker can negotiate preferential rates.

Standard conditions for non-residents apply: minimum down payment of 50% (LTV 50%), rates between 4.5% and 6.5% depending on the type of loan, maximum term of 25 years (limited by the borrower's age). The application includes the last 3 balance sheets or payslips, tax returns, bank statements, and the purchase contract.

Case study: a 42-year-old Brazilian buying a 3-room apartment in Netanya for 1,800,000₪. Down payment: 900,000₪. Mashkanta: 900,000₪ over 20 years, fixed rate 5.3%. Monthly payment: 6,100₪. Estimated rent: 5,500₪/month. Monthly cash flow: -600₪ — offset by an estimated annual appreciation of 90,000₪.

The mashkanta broker contacted by IsraelStart compares 3 to 5 banks and negotiates the best terms. Documents must be translated into Hebrew or English by a sworn translator. The time between submitting the complete file and receiving a firm offer is 3 to 6 weeks.

BRL/ILS Fund Transfers: Optimizing Currency Exchange

Transferring funds from Brazil (Transfers) to your Israeli bank account is a critical step that can cost—or save—you thousands of euros. The typical bank spread (the difference between the interbank rate and the rate offered by your bank) ranges from 1% to 3% depending on the bank.

For a purchase of ₪2,000,000 (about €500,000 at the current rate), a 2% spread means an extra cost of €10,000. That's significant! Alternative solutions: Wise (formerly TransferWise) with spreads of 0.3-0.5%, specialized currency brokers (OFX, CurrencyFair) for large amounts, and direct negotiation with your bank's currency desk (possible for transfers over €100,000).

Our recommendation: compare at least 3 exchange options before each transfer. Split transfers if the rate is volatile. And plan your transfers 2-3 weeks before the payment date to avoid time pressure.

Cities Favored by Brazilians in Israel

Not applicable for this article — see the dedicated article on Brazilians' favorite cities.

No matter which city you choose, IsraelStart lists over 300 new developments across Israel — Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Netanya, Haifa, Herzliya, Beer Sheva, Ashdod, and many more. Our city comparison helps you identify the ideal destination based on your budget, investment goals, and community preferences.

Purchase Procedure: Steps for a Brazilian

The process is structured and predictable. Step 1: You complete the personalized IsraelStart assessment (5 minutes online). Step 2: An advisor in your language presents 3-5 projects matching your criteria. Step 3: You appoint a lawyer (IsraelStart connects you). Step 4: Consular or notarial power of attorney in your country. Step 5: Open a bank account in Israel. Step 6: Sign the contract and make initial payments. Step 7: Construction follow-up and delivery.

The entire process is managed from Brazil (Transfers), via WhatsApp, email, and video conference. You do not need to travel to Israel before delivery. The turnkey IsraelStart support covers every step, from A to Z, in your language.

Common Mistakes Made by Brazilian Buyers

Three mistakes are frequently seen among Brazilians who purchase without guidance.

Mistake #1: Not checking the bilateral tax treaty before buying. Each country has its own specifics—do not assume that French rules apply to your situation.

Mistake #2: Using a standard bank transfer without comparing exchange rates. On a purchase of 2 million shekels, the difference between a regular bank transfer and an optimized service can reach €5,000 to €10,000.

Mistake #3: Neglecting to declare your Israeli bank account in your home country. Most countries require you to declare accounts held abroad. Failure to comply can lead to significant fines.

The IsraelStart support covers these tax and administrative aspects for each nationality, with a network of lawyers and tax experts who understand your country's bilateral agreements.