This guide answers common questions about working in Israel as a foreign worker. The information is based on current Israeli labor laws and regulations.
Visa and Work Permits
Q: What types of work visas are available in Israel?A: The main work visa categories are:
- B/1 General work visa
- B/1 Nursing visa for caregivers
- B/1 Expert visa for specialized professionals
- B/1 Hi-Tech visa for technology sector workers
- B/2 visa for short-term work
Q: How long can I stay on a work visa?A: Duration varies by visa type:
- Initial visas usually last one year
- General workers can stay up to 63 months
- Caregivers may get extensions beyond 5 years
- Expert visas depend on project length
- Tech visas typically allow up to 5 years
Pay and Benefits
Q: What's the minimum wage?A: As of 2025:
- Monthly minimum: ₪6,000
- Hourly minimum: ₪35.00
- Overtime: 125% for first two extra hours, 150% after that
Q: What benefits are mandatory by law?A: Legal benefits include:
- Paid vacation (12-28 days per year)
- Sick leave (1.5 days per month)
- Health insurance
- Pension contributions
- Severance pay
- National insurance coverage
Healthcare
Q: How does health insurance work?A: Employers must provide private health insurance that covers:
- Emergency care
- Hospital stays
- Regular doctor visits
- Work injuries
- Basic medications
Q: What if I get sick?A: You have these rights:
- Paid sick leave
- Doctor's note needed for 3+ days absence
- Full insurance coverage for treatment
- Right to keep your job while sick
Living Expenses
Q: What are typical monthly costs in Israel?A: Average monthly expenses (2025):
- Room in shared apartment: ₪2,000-3,500
- Food: ₪1,500-2,000
- Transportation: ₪200-400
- Utilities: ₪400-600
- Phone/Internet: ₪100-150
Q: Is housing provided by employers?A: It depends on your job:
- Some sectors require employer housing
- Housing must meet legal standards
- You can choose private housing
- Salary deductions for housing are regulated
Work Schedule
Q: What's a typical work week?A: Standard working arrangements:
- 42-hour work week
- Sunday through Thursday
- Some places work half-day Friday
- Saturday is the official rest day
Q: What about holidays?A: You get either:
- Jewish holidays (about 9 days per year)
- Your own religious holidays
- Paid time off for these days
Your Rights
Q: What are my basic rights?A: Key rights include:
- Legal minimum wage
- Maximum work hours
- Safe workplace
- Freedom to join unions
- Protection from discrimination
- Right to keep your passport
- Access to legal help
Q: Where can I report problems?A: Contact:
- Worker's Hotline
- Ministry of Labor
- Your embassy
- Legal aid groups
Banking
Q: How do I open a bank account?A: You'll need:
- Work visa
- Passport
- Job contract
- Address proof
- Letter from employer
Q: How can I send money home?A: Options include:
- Bank transfers
- Money transfer services
- Digital payment apps
- Post office services
Language
Q: Is Hebrew required?A: It depends:
- Many jobs don't require Hebrew
- English is common in professional jobs
- Basic Hebrew helps with daily life
- Some jobs provide language training
Important Numbers
Q: What emergency numbers should I know?A: Key numbers:
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 101
- Fire: 102
- General Emergency: 112
Visa Renewal
Q: How do I renew my visa?A: Basic steps:
- Start 2 months before expiry
- Gather required documents
- Submit through employer
- Complete biometric verification
- Track application status
Help Resources
Q: Where can I get more information?A: Main resources:
- Ministry of Interior website
- Foreign Workers' Rights Hotline
- Your country's embassy
- Worker support organizations