Immigration to Israel declined by about one-third in 2025, driven largely by a dramatic drop in arrivals from Russia, according to the Immigration and Absorption Ministry.
Approximately 21,900 new immigrants moved to Israel this year, down from 32,800 in 2024. While Russia remained the largest source country, just 8,300 immigrants arrived from there — a 57% decrease from last year and far below the surge seen after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In contrast, immigration from Western countries rose. Some 3,500 immigrants arrived from the United States, a 5% increase from 2024. French immigration jumped 45% to 3,300, while immigration from the United Kingdom rose 19% to 840.
The ministry noted a growing trend of younger immigrants coming from countries experiencing rising antisemitism.
Immigration and Absorption Minister Ofir Sofer said the government is advancing policies to encourage aliyah, alongside expanded programs for housing, employment, education, and community integration.
“These efforts are expected to strengthen the State of Israel and encourage further immigration,” Sofer said.
