Israel Aerospace and Elbit Recruit French Immigrants Before Arrival

French immigrants moving to Israel are now being matched with employers before they leave home. The Aliyah and Integration Ministry organized recruitment events in Paris, Marseille, and Lyon this month to secure jobs for new arrivals. Representatives from major firms including Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, and Bank Mizrahi-Tefahot participated in the Paris fair. They spoke with approximately 200 prospective immigrants and identified more than 50 candidates for open roles. Some candidates completed advanced interviews the day after the event.

The number of people arriving from France has grown sharply. About 3,400 Jews immigrated from France in 2025. More than 4,000 have arrived in 2026 so far. This represents a nearly 50 percent increase compared to the same period last year. France currently has a Jewish population of roughly 440,000. By comparison, North America is projected to send about 4,000 immigrants to Israel this year, despite having a community of nearly eight million people.

Ministry Director-General Dganit Sankar-Langa said the government is preparing for potential financial restrictions in France. She explained that post-election decisions could make it harder for French Jews to transfer savings to Israel. Officials are weighing this risk against the current economic crisis in France, which they say drives interest in immigration alongside antisemitism. Sankar-Langa noted that about 90 percent of attendees at the Paris fair expressed a desire to move immediately or by 2027. She described many attendees as having clear timelines and specific questions about schooling and logistics.

Roni, a 75-year-old resident of Paris since 1975, said his identity is perceived differently now. He explained that speaking Hebrew or mentioning Israeli military service was once a source of pride but is now often met with negativity. He noted that many Jews are becoming more cautious in public. Some avoid wearing kippahs even on religious holidays like Yom Kippur. Roni and his wife have purchased an apartment in Herzliya and visit Israel several times a year. He said he hears French frequently in local shops and cafes there.

New immigrant communities are forming in various cities. While Netanya, Tel Aviv, and Ashdod remain primary destinations, new clusters have emerged in Nahariya, Afula, Hadera, and the Neve Sha'anan neighborhood of Haifa. Approximately 200 immigrants from France have settled in Or Akiva in recent years. Minister Ofir Sofer stated that immigration from France is at its highest level in years. He emphasized that quality employment is key to successful integration.

The ministry is working to remove bureaucratic barriers and provide tax and pension advice. Officials distinguish this planned integration from emergency responses seen during the Russia-Ukraine war. They aim to fill shortages in engineering, medicine, education, and artificial intelligence. Prime Minister has instructed officials to formulate a dedicated government plan to support this immigration.