Israel sees 53% drop in citizens returning from abroad

A report from the Knesset Research and Information Centre reveals a significant decline in the number of Israelis returning to the country from abroad. Between 2020 and 2024, the number of returnees fell by 53%, dropping from approximately 8,000 people annually to roughly 3,800. This decline has occurred alongside an increase in long-term emigration, resulting in a negative migration balance of about 140,000 people over a three-year period starting in 2022.

Historically, North America has been the primary source of returnees, accounting for nearly half of all those returning. However, returns from the United States have seen a sharp decrease, falling from about 3,700 in 2020 to 1,500 in 2024. In contrast, there was a temporary increase in returnees from Russia and Ukraine in 2022, likely linked to the conflict in that region.

The report identifies several deterrents for Israelis living abroad, including regional conflict, economic challenges, and bureaucratic hurdles. Specific obstacles mentioned include difficulties with housing, taxes, education, and the healthcare system. For instance, many returning citizens face a mandatory six-month waiting period for government health insurance unless they pay a specific fee to waive it.