Eid al-Fitr holiday will close offices, consulates

What is the change? The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which will begin the week of May 11, will close offices and delay application processing times in countries across the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia as well as at consular missions around the world.

What does the change mean? Offices will close for one to 11 days, depending on the country. Applicants should expect delays in processing times for visas, work permits and similarly related items.

• Implementation time frame: Exact dates vary from country to country.
• Who is affected: Applicants for all visas and permits.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times will be delayed, especially in countries with prolonged closures.
• Next steps: If possible, time-sensitive filings should be completed before the holiday break to avoid delays.

Background: Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with three or more days of festivities. The holiday is also known as Ramazan Bayrami in Turkey, Hari Raya Puasa in Singapore, and Korité or Tabaski in West Africa.

Some countries will announce their holiday schedules closer to the end of Ramadan. Others have tentatively set the following public holiday schedules as follows:

• Egypt – May 12-16.
• Indonesia – May 13-14.
• Jordan – May 11-15.
• Kuwait – May 12-16.
• Oman – May 13-16.
• Qatar – May 9-18.
• Saudi Arabia – May 7-17.
• Singapore – May 13.
• Turkey – May 12-15.
• United Arab Emirates – May 11-14.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should anticipate delays because of the holiday and may need to adjust timelines and start dates, especially in countries, such as Saudi Arabia, with a prolonged holiday period. Companies may wish to contact their immigration provider for individual country and consular schedules.

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