Leaving Britain? UK aliyah hits 40-year high as antisemitism rises fast

Since October 7, studies show British Jews are more likely than before to consider aliyah, even if many have not yet acted on it.

By Abe Mermelstien, Jewish Breaking News

According to a new report from the Institute for Jewish Policy Research, 742 Jews from the United Kingdom made aliyah in 2025, the highest annual total since the mid-1980s.

Over the past two decades, aliyah from the UK has remained stable, typically ranging between 400 and 740 people per year, with a long-term average of about 566 annually.

In practical terms, that means roughly 2 out of every 1,000 British Jews make aliyah each year, higher than other countries like Canada but still far below places like France, where migration levels are significantly higher.

So this is not, at least yet, a mass exodus. But something is changing.

Firstly, this marks two consecutive years of growth, rising from 561 immigrants in 2024 to 742 in 2025.

Secondly, since October 7, studies show British Jews are more likely than before to consider aliyah, even if many have not yet acted on it.

That change is especially pronounced among younger Jews, Orthodox communities, and those who have personally experienced antisemitism.

Many British Jews find that there are many factors to consider regarding aliyah. Economic opportunities, family, and connection to Israel all play a role.

Antisemitism in the UK has surged in recent years, which reshapes how many Jews view their place in British society.

There is also a practical explanation for the 2025 spike.

Some of the increase may be due to delayed aliyah plans from previous years, particularly during periods when travel and relocation were disrupted, whether it was due to COVID or war.