2025-03-07
Israel has expressed a great need for foreign labor and plans to increase the number of Thai workers from 40000 to 60000 by 2025. Israeli Labor Minister Yoav Ben Tzur recently visited Thailand to discuss an expanded labor quota and improved conditions for Thai migrant workers.
High demand for Thai labor
Israel has between 200000 and 300000 job openings for foreign workers, with a significant portion of these in agriculture, construction, healthcare and services. Thai workers are particularly in demand in the agricultural sector, where they have a strong tradition and are considered reliable and hardworking.
Improved conditions and faster visa process
During his visit, Yoav Ben Tzur met with Thailand's Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn to discuss ways to facilitate the recruitment of Thai workers. One of the key points was to speed up the visa process and offer better working conditions. The Israeli government has pledged to improve working conditions by:
- Placement in safe working environments outside conflict zones.
- Legal protection and trade union rights for Thai workers.
- Faster visa processing to facilitate recruitment.
Training and protection for workers
To further improve conditions, Israel will offer Thai language training and build sheltered housing for migrant workers. The Israeli government has also implemented compensation programs for workers affected by conflicts in the region.
Thailand strengthens its position as a labor exporter
Thailand has a long history of sending workers abroad and is actively working to ensure that Thai migrant workers receive the best possible protection and compensation. The government aims to sign more bilateral labor agreements to expand the labor market for Thais abroad.
With continued increased demand for labor in Israel, we can expect more Thai workers in the country in the coming years, which could create new economic opportunities for both countries.
Salaries for Thai workers in Israel
- Average salary in Israel: Approximately 5500-6000 shekels/month (approx. 55000-60000 THB)
- Average salary in Thailand: Approximately 12000-15000 THB/month, depending on profession and region
- Working hours: Usually 6 days a week, 8-10 hours per day
- Accommodation cost: Often subsidized or included by the employer
- Work permit: Issued through official work programs to ensure rights and protection
- Popular sectors: Agriculture, construction industry, healthcare and service
Important links
- Department of Employment (DOE): www.doe.go.th
- Application portal for work in Israel: https://toea.doe.go.th/LBANK-WEB/main.php
More information
For more detailed information about working conditions, wages and rights in Israel, it is recommended to visit Office of Labor Affairs at the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv.
Important information about taxes and fees
Please note that wages earned in Israel may be subject to taxes and social security contributions, including:
- Income tax: Progressive tax scale with rates from 10% to 50% depending on income level.
- National Insurance (Bituach Leumi): Mandatory social security contributions.
- Health tax: Mandatory deduction for healthcare services.
- Thai tax: From 2024, income from abroad may be taxed in Thailand.
It is recommended that employees carefully research applicable tax regulations in both Israel and Thailand and seek professional advice if necessary.
Text: The editorial staff
Image license: ignartonosbg, Pixabay, original image