2025 figures: more citizens left Israel than new immigrants arrived

In 2025, about 22,500 new immigrants arrived in Israel — almost a third fewer than in 2024. The flow from Russia and Ukraine, which had supported the figures in previous years, fell by more than 55%. A small increase in aliyah from France (+45%) and the US did not change the overall picture.

According to various estimates, between 45,000 and 69,000 Israelis moved abroad permanently in 2025. Many left as families, together with their children.

During the year, about 19,000 Israelis who had lived abroad for a long time returned to the country. However, only 4,483 of them formally obtained the status of "returning resident" (toshav chozer), which restores eligibility for tax benefits and health insurance.

The main problem lies not only in the numbers but in who is leaving. The country faces a serious brain drain: most emigrants are high-tech professionals, scientists and doctors. During the escalation, more than 1,300 qualified medical professionals left Israel.

The security situation, a sharp rise in the cost of living and uncertain economic prospects are pushing the most mobile part of the population to look for alternatives. Aliyah no longer offsets the departure of native-born Israelis and long-time residents, and the state will have to deal with this demographic challenge for a long time.