Over 1,000 Sri Lankan workers set to leave for Israel between Dec 2024 - Jan 2025

A total of 1,802 Sri Lankan workers are set to leave for Israel between December 2024 and January 2025, according to the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment.  

It is reported that 4,531 Sri Lankans were employed in Israel’s construction sector between April 13 and November 30, 2024, as part of a programme established in February 2024.   

However, the Bureau has uncovered fraudulent activities by individuals and groups exploiting job seekers. These scammers use phone calls, text messages and WhatsApp groups to falsely claim they can secure jobs in Israel’s construction sector, which only accepts workers through an official lottery system.   

The Bureau reminded the public that giving or receiving money fraudulently is a punishable offence under Sri Lanka’s Bribery Act.   
Meanwhile, officials have urged aspiring migrant workers to use legal channels and avoid becoming involved in such scams.   
The Bureau also encourages anyone with information about fraudulent activities to report them through their 1989 hotline to ensure justice and accountability.   
This initiative aims to provide safe and legitimate job opportunities abroad while protecting the interests of Sri Lankan workers.