iSavta | 19.05.2025

If you are a caregiver working in Israel—whether you're new or have been here for years—it's crucial to know your rights. Many caregivers are not aware that Israeli law provides strong legal protections for foreign workers, including those without a visa. Knowing what you are entitled to—like fair wages, paid leave, health insurance, and severance pay—can protect you from abuse and help you stand up for yourself with confidence.

This article breaks down your legal rights in simple language, based on the latest update (April 2025) from Kav LaOved, a non-profit organization that helps workers in Israel. Whether you live with your employer or work in a nursing home or hospital, this guide is for you. Don’t let anyone take advantage of your hard work—you deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

Basic Rights and Conditions

• Minimum Wage:
  6,248 NIS/month (182 hours), or 34.32 NIS/hour.
  Weekly allowance is part of this salary.

• Salary Payment:
  Must be paid by the 9th of each month for the previous month.

• Overtime Pay:
  Over 7 hours/day = overtime.
  First 2 hours: 42.9 NIS/hour
  Beyond that: 51.48 NIS/hour

• Weekly Rest Day:
  25 continuous hours/week (including one full day and a few extra hours).
  Workers must be paid extra if they work on this day.

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Leave and Benefits

• Annual Vacation:
  14 paid vacation days per year for the first 5 years, increasing gradually.
  Up to 3 years of unused vacation can be accumulated.
  No need to pay for a reliever during your vacation.

• Holidays:
  9 paid holidays per year, based on your religion/nationality.
  If worked during holidays: 150% daily + 150% hourly for hours beyond 25.

• Sick Leave:
  Must be supported by a doctor's note.
  First day is unpaid, 2nd–3rd days = 50% pay, 4th day onward = 100%.
  Up to 18 paid sick days per year, max 90 total.

• Recuperation Pay:
  After one year: 5 days (418 NIS/day), increasing with years of service.

• Severance Pay:
  Given if you are fired or resign for certain justified reasons.
  Calculated based on last monthly salary × years worked.

• Pension:
  Employers must set aside pension funds.
  Even if you resign, you are entitled to receive the full amount.

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Health & Pregnancy

• Health Insurance:
  Must be provided for the full employment period.
  You may continue with the same provider for 30 days after leaving a job.

• Pregnancy & Maternity Leave:
  Pregnant women must not be fired.
  Coverage includes hospital stay and birth-related expenses with a valid visa.

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Job Transitions & Resignation

• Prior Notice:
  Required from both sides. Notice length depends on how long you've worked.
  From 7 days to 1 full month. Keep a copy of the notice.

• Accommodation:
  Employer must provide housing for at least 1 week after job ends.

• State Deposit:
  Money deducted monthly is deposited into a fund.
  You can collect it 90 days after legal employment ends and before leaving Israel.

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Other Protections

• Sexual Harassment:
  Illegal under Israeli law. You may complain to police or Kav LaOved.

• Passport:
  Employer/agency cannot hold your passport.

• Travel Refund:
  If you don’t live with your employer, they must pay travel expenses.

• Brokerage Fees:
  Agencies can't charge more than 5999 NIS + 17% tax in 3 installments.

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Time Between Jobs

• If in Israel less than 51 months: 90 days to find a new job.

• If in Israel 51–63 months: may work as a reliever for up to 90 days each time.

• If over 63 months: 60 additional days allowed after visa expiration, with an option to apply for a special visa.