Israel Aims to Boost Immigration, Attract Skilled Workers Amid Global Uncertainty

Israel's Ministry of Aliyah and Integration is focusing on attracting Jewish immigrants from France, Britain, South Africa, and Australia, as well as skilled professionals, according to Ministry Director-General Dganit Sanker-Langa. She believes that despite ongoing challenges like the cost of living and rising antisemitism, interest in immigrating to Israel is evolving rather than declining.

The ministry is targeting specific countries and professions, including scientists, teachers, doctors, and specialists for defense and infrastructure projects. Historically, Israel has absorbed 20,000 to 30,000 immigrants annually, excluding the surge from Russia and Ukraine. For 2026, an estimated 18,000 to 20,000 new immigrants are expected, with around 5,000 anticipated from France alone, a significant figure not seen in years. Immigration from the UK, South Africa, and Australia is also on the rise.

Sanker-Langa identified the high cost of living and security concerns as primary obstacles for potential immigrants. She anticipates that global events affecting Jewish communities will influence immigration levels in the next one to three years. Israel's appeal, she noted, lies in its strong academic environment, vibrant community life, and opportunities for Jewish education and lifestyle.

The ministry is also enhancing academic programs taught in English, particularly in response to rising antisemitism on US campuses, encouraging Jewish students to consider Israeli universities like Reichman University, Technion, Ben-Gurion University, and Ariel University. Additionally, programs like "Or" and "Beresheet" offer grants of up to 1.7 million shekels to attract top scientists and researchers to prevent brain drain.

Efforts are underway to recruit teachers, especially for English and STEM subjects, and doctors. Over a thousand doctors have immigrated in the past two years, though an estimated 1,300 left after October 7, 2023. The ministry is also seeking specialists for defense industries and infrastructure projects, such as those with experience in large-scale railway systems.

The war has highlighted the need for better support for immigrant soldiers and their families post-service. A new government initiative aims to create a comprehensive support system. Concurrently, Israel faces the challenge of retaining its own citizens, with approximately one million Israelis estimated to be living abroad. Recent years have seen a significant decline in the number of Israelis returning home.

Sanker-Langa, a former IDF officer, views her ministry as Israel's human resources department, connecting immigrants with employers before their arrival. She emphasizes that the ministry's goal is to facilitate immigration and integration, ensuring every Jew knows they have a home in Israel and receive ongoing support. She remains optimistic about increased immigration in the coming years as the war subsides and more tailored programs become available.