Home / Rights & Programs / Foreign Worker Rights — Including Undocumented Workers
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: 35.17 ILS/hour (2026). 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: 1-800-20-20-16 | UNHCR (refugee status): unhcr.org.il
📞 1-800-354-354
About Rishon LeZion
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