The answer is yes… until it’s suddenly no.

After being unexpectedly rerouted to Athens mid-flight during Israel’s Operation Rising Lion (we wrote a blog and a LinkedIn post about it), I found myself stranded for several days with nothing but a few bags, five kilos of Spanish cheese, and a long to-do list waiting for me back home. While I stayed calm and had faith that El Al would get me back eventually, I couldn’t help but think—what if I didn’t have access to my money?

In uncertain times, especially as an expat or frequent traveler, your financial stability hinges on more than just having funds in the bank. What if your U.S. account freezes a transaction due to “suspicious foreign activity”? What if your credit card company blocks a purchase abroad without warning? Or what if regulatory changes suddenly limit access to your own assets?

These aren’t abstract fears. For many US citizens living in or traveling to Israel, they’re real, frustrating, and sometimes deeply unsettling experiences. In fact, a prospective client told us that she could not access her US brokerage account because the verification code could only be sent to a US phone number – which she did not have.

Before we get started, we’ve written these blogs about moving to and living in Israel which you may enjoy.

What to do when you get kicked out of your US brokerage account

Can one use a US Power of Attorney in Israel, (and vice versa)?

Immigrating to Israel

A guide to retiring in Israel

Checklist for moving to Israel

A guide to investing abroad

Israel expat case studies

Social Security for expats

Financial planning for US citizens living abroad

Selling a house in Israel as a US citizen

Why US Expats should look before they leap into a Roth 401k

Compliance with reporting of foreign assets: tips for US expats to avoid stress

What expats need to know about Brokerage Accounts for non-US residents

And now let’s get into the blog!

Let’s explore the most common banking restrictions U.S. citizens face when living in or traveling to Israel:

Common Banking Restrictions for US Citizens Living in Israel — and How to Solve Them

1. U.S. Banks Block Foreign Logins

The problem:
Logging into your US bank account from Israel can trigger security alerts, leading to frozen online access or declined transactions.

The solution:

• Use a VPN set to a US location to avoid triggering geographic restrictions.
• Notify your bank in advance of extended international stays.
• Use banks known for expat-friendliness who are more lenient with international logins.

2. U.S. Banks Reject Israeli Mailing Addresses

The problem:
Switching your address to an Israeli one may result in your U.S. account being restricted or closed, especially with investment platforms or brokerages.

The solution:

• Maintain a US mailing address, either through a family member or a mail forwarding service (this nay not always work).
• Work with a bank or financial advisor who has a custodian in the US that allows for non US addresses. 

3. Investment Platforms Block Israeli Residents

The problem:
Many US investment apps and brokerages don’t serve customers with non-US residency, even if you’re still a citizen.

The solution:

• Keep your US mailing address on file (if possible).
• Consider working with a US based financial advisor who serves expats.

4. Hebrew-Only Banking Interfaces and App Issues

The problem:
Many Israeli banking apps have limited English support and can be frustrating for non-Hebrew speakers. Some features, like chat or notifications, may not work with foreign phone numbers.

The solution:

• Open your account with a bank that offers English-language interfaces.
• Don’t hesitate to ask for English-speaking support when visiting branches or calling in.

You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help

As local experts specializing in expat finances, we’re uniquely positioned to help you navigate these challenges that come with living abroad.

For our investment clients in Israel, the UK, Greece, South Africa, and beyond, we offer services such as: conversion of dollars from brokerage accounts into local currencies (shekels, euros, pounds, rands) and wiring of funds directly to your local bank; making access to your money simple and reliable. We also provide a globally accepted debit card, so you can spend and withdraw funds with ease.

Our custodian supports international-friendly verification methods, so even if you’re far from home, you can securely manage your accounts.

Whether it’s banking, investing, compliance, or cross-border planning, we’re here to help with clarity and care.

Wherever life takes you, you’ll always have someone in your corner. Book your complimentary 15 minute consultation today and speak with of Nardis’ financial advisors.

Disclaimer

Nardis Advisors LLC (“Nardis”) is a Registered Investment Advisory Firm regulated by the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance and compliance with applicable securities laws and regulations. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Nardis does not render or offer to render personalized investment advice through this medium. The information provided herein is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment or legal advice. Investment advice can only be rendered after delivery of the Firm’s disclosure statement (Form ADV Part 2) and execution of an investment advisory agreement between the client and Nardis.