Israel licensing reform benefits professionals making Aliyah - what you need to know

The Immigration and Absorption Committee is planning a series of licensure reforms to ensure professionals making Aliyah can quickly and easily work in Israel without going through arduous internships and examinations, according to a report in Globes today (Wednesday).

Until now, professionals who made Aliyah, even if they had significant experience and education from abroad, were often forced to go through licensure exams and internships as though they had just completed college, leading to years of delays in their ability to work and live in Israel.

The Immigration and Absorption Ministry aims to end this or at least make it easier for professional Olim.

According to Globes, "Immigrants who are accountants, engineers, architects, electricians, educators, surveyors, investment advisors, insurance agents, or veterinarians will receive significant accommodations upon their arrival to Israel.

"For example, accountants were previously required to complete a two-year internship, examinations, and an additional six-month internship - even if they had accumulated extensive experience abroad. According to the new program, accountants with more than two years of experience abroad will receive a special status of "New Immigrant Accountant," which will allow them to immediately perform most functions."

However, two professions are exempted from this reform, due to pressure from both regulators and professional unions opposed to the increased labor competition - doctors and lawyers. Indeed, all medical professions including nurses and other personnel will not change the criteria needed for immigrant professionals, despite there being a serious shortage of medical professionals throughout the country.

The Minister of Aliyah and Integration, Ofir Sofer, said that "this is a necessary decision that will help immigrants realize their professional potential as soon as they arrive in Israel." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also said that "immigrants with liberal professions that are much needed by the state go through hell just to maintain a local guild. Therefore, removing these barriers is very welcome."

The Ministry of Health stated that it "sees the promotion of immigration as a national mission, especially in these complex times. This, combined with the growing shortage of health professionals, has led to cooperation between the Ministries of Aliyah and Integration and Health. The Ministry is aware of the increasing demand and need for doctors and practitioners from various health professions. The issue is under review and programs are being developed in cooperation with professional associations."