Access to Government Services in Amharic — Complete Guide
By law — every public body must provide services in minority languages. Guide to all government agencies offering Amharic service.
The Right to Service in Your Language
Civil Rights Equality Law and Supreme Court rulings require public bodies to provide service to minority language speakers, including Amharic.
Government Services with Amharic
NII (BTL): Amharic-speaking agent — 08-6709709. Ministry of Aliyah: absorption centre + line — 3450. Ministry of Health: Kol LaBriut — 1-700-500-400. Maccabi: Amharic agent — 3555. Clalit: language centre — *2701.
Unknown Rights
Court proceedings: right to interpreter. Hospital: every hospital must provide a translator — request "Amharic translator." School (for your children): parents entitled to communication in understandable language.
Tip
When calling any government body, say immediately: "Amharic please" — most will transfer to a suitable agent within minutes.
📞 BTL: 08-6709709 | Ministry of Aliyah: *3450
Related rights
Foreign Worker Rights — Including Undocumented Workers
Undocumented workers are entitled to minimum wage, basic working conditions and cannot be deported for filing a complaint — even if residing illegally.
Right to Legal Translation — Navigating Courts in Hebrew
Every defendant who does not have command of Hebrew is entitled to a free interpreter in all court proceedings. A constitutional right many are unaware of.
Right to an Interpreter in Court and Government Offices
Anyone who does not speak Hebrew is entitled to an interpreter in any legal proceeding — a constitutional right. Government offices (BTL, Interior Ministry, Aliyah Ministry) must also provide translation. The right is free and at state expense.
Disability Benefit for Ethiopian Immigrants — Rights and How to Apply
Ethiopian immigrants with a recognised medical disability are entitled to BTL disability benefit. A waiting period may apply in the first year. Full benefit for 75%+ disability is approximately ₪4,500/month (2025).