The Rebbe's guidance to people considering aliyah — moving to Eretz Yisrael — and to those who have just arrived (IK = Igros Kodesh letter number):
Each case on its own. Whether to make aliyah depends on each person's situation; there is no single blanket answer (IK 762, 7927, 7946). Weigh the practical side — livelihood, housing, the community you will join — carefully before moving, and don't rush into a move out of fear or uncertainty (IK 1714, 1769, 2120, 8070). Plan the timing wisely (IK 609, 3835); when unsure about a trip, it is best to wait (IK 9081). On a son's move and a family's aliyah, see IK 6449, 8896; on immigration and exit permits for relatives, IK 217, 1802, 9072, 2751.
When staying is the mission. Aliyah has great significance, but urgent needs where you are — fighting assimilation, strengthening Jewish education — may come first (IK 8398, 948). Those who can inspire Jewish youth, and communal leaders and rabbis, should not leave the places that depend on them (IK 7520, 9499, 10025); young people should first strengthen their own communities (IK 9638). Supporting Torah institutions takes precedence over personal relocation, even to Eretz Yisrael (IK 4021). Yearning for Eretz Yisrael means making your own place holy — "making Eretz Yisrael where you are" (IK 2781, 1138).
An ascent in holiness. Aliyah must be a spiritual ascent, not only a change of address (IK 5925). Moving to Eretz Yisrael obligates one to raise one's standards of Torah and mitzvos beyond what they were abroad (IK 2499, 6063, 7079, 10351, 10542); settling in the Holy Land means living with kedushah (IK 6194, 6536). Prepare spiritually before arriving (IK 5665, 9947, 5482), join a religious community rather than a non-religious setting (IK 2749, 2799), and live there as an example to others (IK 10541, 255). Dedicating one's first year in Eretz Yisrael to Torah study brings spiritual and material blessing (IK 7182). Bring holiness into every part of life there, including one's profession (IK 711, 7861). Avoid disputes there above all (IK 1462).
Settling in. Persevere through the challenges of adjusting to a new land, keeping a positive attitude (IK 10545, 10548, 2558). Settling with a focus on Torah and mitzvos brings blessing (IK 8776, 9679, 10593, 10883, 1370, 5973). The true help for Eretz Yisrael is strengthening Torah and mitzvos (IK 2034).
Staying in the Land. On individuals advised to remain in Eretz Yisrael for study and for their mission, see IK 1145, 1780, 4717; on leaving for Torah study, and what counts as Torah study, IK 2257; on returning to Eretz Yisrael, IK 8865.
Visiting. Prepare for a visit to Eretz Yisrael as if going to meet a king, with more Torah and mitzvos (IK 2060, 4089); a visit brings spiritual and physical elevation (IK 8809, 8404). Travel there without Shabbos desecration (IK 9021, 9014); on visiting during Shemitah, see IK 1221; on travel for yeshiva students, IK 4470; on sustaining inspiration after a visit, IK 4687.
See also: Land of Israel – Leaving Eretz Yisrael; Land of Israel – Living in the Holy Land; Land of Israel – Helping new immigrants settle; Land of Israel – Kfar Chabad; Livelihood – Moving to another city or country for work.