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Foreign Worker Rights — Including Undocumented Workers in Rishon LeZion
Undocumented workers are entitled to minimum wage, basic working conditions and cannot be deported for filing a complaint — even if residing illegally.
About Rishon LeZion
Rishon LeZion is home to a large, active Israeli-Ethiopian community, historically concentrated in the Ramat Eliyahu neighbourhood — originally built as absorption housing and now a long-standing community centre. The neighbourhood is at the heart of urban-renewal efforts, alongside a growing second-generation presence across the city.
Key Principle
In Israel, labour rights apply to every worker — regardless of legal status. Even those residing illegally are entitled to basic employment rights.
Basic Rights
Minimum wage (from 1 Apr 2026): ILS 6,443.85/month for a full-time post — ILS 35.40/hour on a 182-hour base, ILS 34.64 on a 186-hour base. Annual leave: 12-24 days/year. Sick pay: 1.5 days/month worked. Severance: after 1 year — 1 month per year worked. Maximum hours: 45/week.
Protection from Deportation
The Foreign Workers Law protects anyone filing a labour complaint — they cannot be deported during investigation proceedings.
Who to Contact
Kav LaOved (free advice): 1-800-354-354 | Tebeka: 072-2424622 | UNHCR (refugee status): unhcr.org.il
📞 1-800-354-354
Ethiopian community in Rishon LeZion
- Community population
- ~12,000
- Share of city
- ~8%
- Main neighbourhoods
- רמת אליהו, נחלה
- Community services
- תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי
More rights in Rishon LeZion
This right in other cities
FAQ — Rishon LeZion
- How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Rishon LeZion?
- The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Rishon LeZion numbers approximately ~12,000 residents — around ~8% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: רמת אליהו, נחלה.
- How do I claim Foreign Worker Rights — Including Undocumented Workers in Rishon LeZion?
- Contact the Rishon LeZion Employment Bureau — it is required to assist in implementing affirmative-action law. For support: תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי.
- What community support is available in Rishon LeZion for this right?
- In Rishon LeZion, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: תנה בריאות, ביטוח לאומי מקומי.
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