Home / Rights & Programs / Unemployment Benefit — Complete Guide for Ethiopian-Israelis
Unemployment Benefit — Complete Guide for Ethiopian-Israelis in Jerusalem
Anyone who worked at least 12 months in the last 18 months and lost their job is entitled to unemployment benefit. You must register at the Employment Service within 14 days of job loss. Benefit: 45–80% of last salary.
About Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Israel's capital, hosts a large Israeli-Ethiopian community concentrated historically in the Gondar neighbourhood in the north and with significant presence in Kiryat HaYovel and other areas. The city is home to the Centre for Ethiopian Jewish Heritage and several traditional synagogues led by kessim, alongside a broad housing market.
Who Is Eligible?
Anyone who worked at least 12 of the last 18 months (with National Insurance contributions), lost their job without fault (dismissal, contract expiry, business closure — not voluntary resignation), and registered at the Employment Service within 14 days of job loss.
Benefit Rate
- Single, no children (months 1–3): 50% of last salary
- From month 4: 45%
- With children or sole breadwinner: 60–80%
- Daily cap: approx. ₪800 (2025)
Duration
- Age 25–35: 70 days
- Age 35–45: 100 days
- Age 45–67: 138 days
How to Apply
- Go to the nearest Employment Service office within 14 days — every late day means lost benefit.
- Bring: ID, termination letter, last 3 salary slips, employment-period confirmation.
- BTL entitlement activates automatically — no separate claim needed in most cases.
Appeal
If rejected: appeal in writing within 30 days. TEBEKA (1-800-20-20-16) can assist with representation before BTL and the Labour Court.
About Jerusalem
Related rights
Employment Rights for People with Disabilities
The Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law requires employers to make reasonable accommodations. Entitlements include a mobility allowance, tax benefits, and NII cost reduction.
Rights Against Employment Discrimination
Every employee in Israel — including new immigrants and Ethiopian-Israelis — is protected against discrimination based on race, nationality, origin, and more.
Excellence Employment Programs — Olim Beyahad & Tech-Career
Placement of academics in tech and management via Olim Beyahad (700+ placed, 90% retention) and Tech-Career (tech bootcamps). Free, merit-based.
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.