Services suspended at Israeli consulates as workers strike

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Israeli consulate employees went on strike Thursday, suspending operations at consular posts around the world.

What does the change mean? No services will be provided during the strike, the duration of which is unknown at this point. This change will likely delay immigration processing, especially given that the workers went on strike shortly before holiday closures in September for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkoth.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: All consular services.
• Who is affected: Anyone in need of services at an Israeli consulate.
• Impact on processing times: The strike could exacerbate delays in immigration services, especially because consular posts were already scheduled to be closed for much of September for the holidays.
• Business impact: Businesses may need to adjust timelines in some circumstances.

BAL Analysis: Processing delays should be expected as a result of the work stoppage and the upcoming holidays. BAL will continue following the strike and will provide updates as more information becomes available about how long it is expected to last.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Israel. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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