Surge in French Aliyah: Over 2,000 Attend Paris Immigration Fair
A major Aliyah fair in Paris drew over 2,000 French Jews exploring immigration to Israel amid rising insecurity. The event featured direct recruitment by top Israeli firms.
Amid social unrest and protests in France, a major Aliyah fair was held in Paris this week, drawing over 600 households—representing some 2,000 participants—exploring the possibility of moving to Israel. Organized by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, the Jewish Agency, and Ofek Yisraeli, the event highlighted a dramatic surge in immigration from France.
In 2025, approximately 3,400 French Jews immigrated to Israel. However, the figures for 2026 are outpacing previous years, with nearly 3,950 newcomers arriving since the beginning of the year—a 16% increase compared to the entirety of 2025, even before the year's end.
Insecurity and Political Climate
The rising immigration comes against the backdrop of a tense social and political climate in France. Members of the Jewish community report a growing sense of insecurity and deep concern over political developments, particularly the potential rise of far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon.
In response, the Israeli government has stepped up its preparations. Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer brought the issue to a special cabinet discussion, emphasizing comprehensive solutions in employment, housing, and personal support. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently ordered a dedicated plan to encourage and absorb immigration from French communities.
Direct Recruitment from Abroad
A notable innovation at this year's fair was the direct participation of major Israeli corporations alongside government officials. Representatives from Israel Aerospace Industries, Elbit Systems, Mekorot, Mizrahi Tefahot Bank, and the National AI Directorate took part, allowing candidates to undergo preliminary screening and recruitment processes while still in France.
"Quality employment is one of the key factors for successful Aliyah and optimal integration. We are acting even before immigration to open doors for prospective newcomers and provide them with a clear employment horizon," said Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer.
The initiative proved successful, with corporate representatives meeting roughly 200 candidates, over 50 of whom showed high initial professional compatibility. Further in-depth interviews are planned to advance their hiring processes prior to relocation.
Comprehensive Support and Future Fairs
Concurrently, Aliyah guidance teams and Jewish Agency representatives, led by delegation head Erez Cohen, provided tailored consultations to about 200 families. Data gathered at the fair shows that roughly 90% of attendees expressed a firm desire to immigrate either immediately or during 2027.
Representatives from the Ministry of Defense also joined the delegation to address the needs of lone soldiers, holding moving meetings with parents of soldiers serving in Israel. Following the successful launch in Paris, the Aliyah delegation is scheduled to hold additional fairs in Marseille and Lyon.
