Israel recruits French workers before they arrive

The Aliyah and Integration Ministry in Israel is preparing for a potential shift in French financial policy that could restrict capital transfers. Dganit Sankar-Langa, the ministry’s director-general, explained on Monday that officials are planning for scenarios where post-election decisions in France make it difficult for Jewish residents to move their savings. This financial uncertainty is occurring alongside a severe economic crisis in France, which government data suggests is driving interest in immigration at nearly the same rate as antisemitism.

The number of people moving reflects this urgency. Approximately 3,400 Jews immigrated from France in 2025. By October 2026, more than 4,000 had already arrived. This figure represents a nearly 50 percent increase compared to the same period last year. For context, North America, which is home to nearly eight million Jews, is projected to send only about 4,000 immigrants this year. France currently has a Jewish population of roughly 440,000.

Recent events in Paris, Marseille, and Lyon illustrate the momentum. Over 600 households attended the Paris fair this month, representing approximately 2,000 individuals. Ministry data indicates that about 90 percent of attendees expressed a desire to immigrate immediately or by 2027. Sankar-Langa noted that many attendees arrived with clear timelines and specific questions about schooling and logistics, rather than tentative inquiries about the possibility of moving.

To address integration challenges, the ministry introduced a new recruitment strategy. Representatives from major Israeli companies, including Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and Bank Mizrahi-Tefahot, participated in the Paris fair for the first time. The goal was to begin hiring before immigrants arrived. Representatives met with approximately 200 prospective immigrants, identifying over 50 as potentially suitable for available positions. Advanced interviews were conducted with some candidates the very next day.

New communities are forming in various Israeli cities. While Netanya, Tel Aviv, and Ashdod have historically been primary destinations, new clusters have emerged in Nahariya, Afula, Hadera, and the Neve Sha’anan neighborhood of Haifa. In Or Akiva, approximately 200 immigrants from France have settled in recent years. These groups provide social networks that help newcomers preserve their cultural and linguistic heritage.

Obstacles remain regarding cost of living and housing prices. Many French Jews currently reside in high-quality subsidized housing, meaning the move to Israel often requires substantial financial sacrifice. The ministry is working to remove bureaucratic barriers and provide tax and pension advice to ease the transition. Officials distinguish this planned integration from the emergency response seen during the Russia-Ukraine war.

Prime Minister has instructed officials to formulate a dedicated government plan to support this immigration. Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer stated that immigration from France is at its highest level in years. Sankar-Langa added that the ministry views itself as a human resources department for the state, aiming to fill shortages in fields such as engineering, medicine, education, and artificial intelligence.