Israel Approves Immigration of 600 Bnei Menashe Community Members
Israel approved the immigration of 600 Bnei Menashe community members from India in 2027, backed by ministers Ofir Sofer and Bezalel Smotrich.
The Israeli government has approved a resolution brought forward by Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer, with budgetary backing from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, to bring approximately 600 new immigrants from the Bnei Menashe community in northeast India to Israel in 2027.
The newcomers are scheduled to arrive during the first half of 2027 as the third wave under a multi-year framework for the community's immigration. The decision ensures the operational continuity of absorption and conversion mechanisms established by professional teams.
The list of immigrants was approved by a rabbinical delegation in coordination with the Population and Immigration Authority. Arrival order will prioritize conversion readiness and family reunification.
Upon arrival, community members will be housed in absorption centers for up to six months. During this period, they will undergo intensive Hebrew studies and a full conversion process, after which they will receive immigrant status, Israeli citizenship, and permanent housing in local municipalities.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich welcomed the decision, stating: "Bringing our Bnei Menashe brothers home to Israel is a great privilege and the realization of the Zionist vision. Together with the wonderful work of Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer and the budget we approved today, we have provided the necessary resources and professional framework to ensure a smooth integration."
