Israel’s immigration policies in 2024 reflect the nation's efforts to address national security, economic challenges, and demographic shifts. While the foundational laws, including the Law of Return, remain unchanged, significant procedural and administrative updates have shaped the immigration landscape.

1. Extension of the Citizenship and Entry into Israel Law

The Citizenship and Entry into Israel Law, originally enacted in 2003, restricts the ability of Palestinian spouses of Israeli citizens to gain residency or citizenship. This law has been extended multiple times and was renewed again in November 2024 until March 2025.

Key Provisions:

• Limits family reunification for Palestinians married to Israeli citizens.

• Exemptions exist for humanitarian cases, but the process is highly restrictive.

Criticism:

• Human rights groups argue the law is discriminatory and infringes on the rights of Arab-Israeli families.

• The government defends the law as a necessary security measure.

2. Implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) System

In August 2024, Israel launched the ETA-IL system, which requires travelers from visa-exempt countries to obtain pre-approval before entering the country.

Details:

• Who Needs It? Visitors from visa-free countries, including the U.S., Canada, and European Union nations.

• Validity: An ETA is valid for up to two years or until the associated passport expires.

• Application Process: Online submission, including basic biographical information and travel details.

Impact:

• Enhances security by pre-screening travelers.

• Aligns with international travel security trends, such as the EU’s ETIAS system.

• Introduced challenges for spontaneous travelers who were previously exempt from such requirements.

3. Increased Quotas for Foreign Workers

In June 2024, Israel approved the entry of 92,000 foreign workers to address labor shortages in critical sectors.

Sector Allocation:

• Construction: Approximately 60,000 workers.

• Agriculture: 15,000 workers.

• Caregiving: 10,000 workers.

• Industry: 7,000 workers.

Significance:

• Aims to boost economic productivity and fill workforce gaps.

• Ensures industries reliant on foreign labor can continue operating efficiently.

Concerns:

• Workers’ rights advocacy groups have called for stricter regulations to prevent exploitation.

• The government is under pressure to ensure that foreign workers have adequate living and working conditions.

4. Updates to the Law of Return Process

While the Law of Return itself has not been amended in 2024, procedural updates by the Ministry of Interior have introduced stricter requirements for applicants.

New Requirements:

• Additional Documentation: Applicants must provide more comprehensive proof of Jewish ancestry, including genealogical records and rabbinical letters.

• Stricter Conversion Scrutiny: Converts must demonstrate adherence to halachic (Jewish legal) standards, particularly those converting in Israel.

• Extended Processing Times: The review process for Aliyah applications has lengthened due to increased vetting.

Impact on Applicants:

• Converts and individuals with tenuous claims to Jewish heritage face greater challenges in proving their eligibility.

• Diaspora communities, especially those in non-Orthodox denominations, have expressed concerns over exclusionary practices.

5. Declining Immigration Numbers

From January to August 2024, Israel recorded a 42% decrease in new immigrants compared to the same period in 2023. This decline reflects several factors:

Key Trends:

• Geopolitical Instability: Rising tensions in Eastern Europe and other regions have disrupted immigration channels.

• Stricter Procedures: New requirements under the Law of Return have discouraged some applicants.

• Economic Factors: The cost of living in Israel remains a barrier for potential immigrants.

Regional Insights:

• Despite the overall decline, immigration from Western countries has increased, with notable surges from:

  • France: Up by 76%.

  • United Kingdom: Up by 55%.

• This reflects growing interest in Aliyah among Jews in affluent Western nations.

6. Legislative Measures Impacting Palestinian Populations

Two controversial laws passed in November 2024 have sparked international criticism:

1. Deportation of Relatives of Attackers:

   • Allows the state to deport family members of individuals involved in attacks against Israelis.

   • Criticized as collective punishment by human rights organizations.

2. Ban on UNRWA Operations:

   • The Knesset banned the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) from operating within Israel.

   • Raises concerns about the humanitarian impact on Palestinian refugees.

Government Justification:

• Emphasizes national security and reducing reliance on external agencies.

• Critics argue these measures violate international law and exacerbate regional tensions.

Broader Trends and Implications

Economic Impacts

• Increased foreign worker quotas are expected to stabilize critical industries.

• Stricter immigration procedures may slow population growth, impacting long-term economic planning.

Security Concerns

• The introduction of the ETA system and legislative restrictions reflect heightened focus on security.

• The extension of the Citizenship and Entry Law underscores ongoing fears about demographic and security risks.

Debates on Jewish Identity

• Stricter Aliyah requirements have reignited debates about "Who is a Jew?"

• Critics argue these measures disproportionately affect non-Orthodox Jews and converts.

Future Outlook

While no major reforms are planned, several potential developments could shape Israel’s immigration policies in the coming years:

1. Amendments to the Law of Return:

   • Ongoing debates about the "grandchild clause" may lead to legislative changes.

2. Technological Innovations:

   • The ETA system may pave the way for digitalization of other immigration processes.

3. Regional Challenges:

   • Increased tensions in the region could lead to further restrictions on immigration and residency for Palestinian populations.

Israel’s immigration laws in 2024 highlight the country’s efforts to address evolving challenges while maintaining its unique identity as a Jewish and democratic state. These changes reflect broader global trends in immigration policy but also raise important questions about inclusivity, human rights, and the balance between security and humanitarian values.

If you’re considering immigrating to Israel, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest policies and seek professional guidance to navigate the complexities of the process.