More Sri Lankans could get the chance to work in Israel this year as the government plans to send up to 10,000 workers through the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).
Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Minister Vijitha Herath shared the update while handing travel permits to 164 workers. They will soon leave for jobs in Israel’s construction sector.
So far, 2,500 Sri Lankans have already left for jobs in Israel this year.
Meanwhile, the government is preparing another 6,500 workers to travel.
It also expects 1,000 more jobs to open in a new sector. If that happens, the total number of workers could reach 10,000 this year.
The minister said people looking for jobs overseas should register with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment.
By applying through the official system, workers can find jobs at a lower cost. They can also avoid many of the risks linked to unofficial agents.
The government said it is following a clear process to recruit workers for Israel. As a result, job seekers can apply through an official channel instead of relying on private middlemen.
Last modified: July 28, 2026
