Basic Law: Freedom of Occupation
חוק-יסוד: חופש העיסוק
Unofficial English translation — for reference only. It may contain errors or omissions and cannot be relied on as a legal text. Only the Hebrew text published in Reshumot is legally binding.More
This English text was translated from the official Hebrew using a range of translation tools, and it undergoes ongoing checks and updates. It is not a certified translation.
Despite these checks, it may contain errors, omissions, or imprecise renderings of legal terminology and cross-references, and it may not yet reflect the latest amendments. It cannot be relied upon as a legal text.
The Hebrew text as published in Reshumot (ספר החוקים) and on the Knesset website is the sole authoritative and legally binding version. In any discrepancy, the Hebrew text prevails.
This translation is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For use in legal proceedings, request a certified Expert Legal Opinion.
Fundamental Principles§
The fundamental human rights in Israel are founded upon recognition of the value of the human being, the sanctity of human life, and the principle that all persons are free; and they shall be upheld in the spirit of the principles set forth in the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel.
Purpose§
The purpose of this Basic Law is to protect freedom of occupation, in order to entrench in a Basic Law the values of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.
Freedom of Occupation§
Every citizen or resident of the State is entitled to engage in any occupation, profession or trade.
Infringement of Freedom of Occupation§
Freedom of occupation shall not be infringed except by a law befitting the values of the State of Israel, enacted for a proper purpose, and to an extent no greater than is required, or pursuant to such a law by virtue of express authorisation therein.
Application§
All governmental authorities are bound to respect the freedom of occupation of every citizen or resident.
Stability§
Emergency Regulations shall not alter this Basic Law, temporarily suspend its validity, or impose conditions upon it.
Entrenchment§
This Basic Law shall not be amended except by a Basic Law passed by a majority of the members of the Knesset.
Validity of a Derogating Law§
Repeal§
Basic Law: Freedom of Occupation — is repealed.
Transitional Provision§
Provisions of legislation that, but for this Basic Law or the Basic Law repealed as referred to in section 9, would have been valid on the eve of the commencement of this Basic Law, shall remain in force until the 1st day of Nisan 5762 (14 March 2002), unless repealed before that date; however, the interpretation of those provisions shall be carried out in the spirit of the provisions of this Basic Law.
Amendment of Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty§
In Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty:
"Fundamental Principles
1. The fundamental human rights in Israel are founded upon recognition of the value of the human being, the sanctity of human life, and the principle that all persons are free; and they shall be upheld in the spirit of the principles set forth in the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel."
Need to cite this law in a foreign court?
Eli Shimony Israeli Attorneys-at-Law provides certified Expert Legal Opinions on Israeli law within 24–48 hours, accepted by courts worldwide.
Contact Us →חוק-יסוד: חופש העיסוק
Chok Yesod Chofesh HaIsuk
Basic Law Freedom of Occupation
Freedom of Occupation Law
Chofesh HaIsuk
occupation freedom
professional freedom
right to work
economic liberty
trade freedom
vocational rights