First batch of Nepali caregivers depart for Israel after Gaza ceasefire

KATHMANDU: The first batch of Nepali caregivers has departed for Israel following the ceasefire in Gaza.

Thirteen Nepali workers left for Israel after being selected in the second recruitment phase announced by the Department of Foreign Employment.

In August last year, Israel’s Population and Immigration Authority conducted a live lottery process, selecting 2,112 individuals, including 1,156 women and 956 men.

The visa process for the remaining 1,112 selected workers is currently underway.

According to Department spokesperson Gurudatta Subedi, 919 selected candidates have already completed their medical tests, while over 200 contracts have been finalized.

These workers will be sent in phases as their visas are approved. So far, 1,300 Nepali caregivers have reached Israel under the government-to-government (G2G) agreement.

“Today, 13 Nepalis flew to Israel,” Subedi told Nagarik. “As soon as Israel issues visas, more workers will depart in phases. Nepali workers receive equal benefits as Israeli caregivers. Those working in long-term care centers are safe and secure.”

Nepal has been sending caregivers to Israel for years, primarily to assist elderly citizens.

Only candidates who pass language and skill tests are permitted to work in Israel.

On Tuesday, Department Director-General Surya Bahadur Khatri and Israeli Ambassador to Nepal, H.E. Shmueli Aribas, bid farewell to the departing workers at Tribhuvan International Airport.

According to Israeli regulations, caregivers must work six days a week, totaling 42 hours. Overtime work is compensated as per Israeli labor laws.

Workers initially sign a one-year contract, which can be extended up to a maximum of five years.

Nepali caregivers in Israel earn around Rs 200,000 per month, with some earning more based on their work experience.

Israel remains an attractive destination for Nepali workers, offering stable employment and competitive salaries in the caregiving sector.