Upcoming holidays likely to delay processing

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Israeli government offices will be closed for extended periods in the coming weeks as the country observes Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkoth.

What does the change mean? Applicants should expect delays in mid- and late-September and early October.

• Implementation time frame: Sept. 9-11 (Rosh Hashanah), Sept. 18-19 (Yom Kippur) and Sept. 23-Oct. 1 (Sukkoth).
• Visas/permits affected: All visas, permits and other immigration-related services.
• Who is affected: Anyone in need of immigration-related services.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times for all work permits and visas are expected to be delayed in September and October, including in the days and weeks after offices reopen.
• Business impact: Employers should factor in the holiday closures and ensuing delays when planning business schedules and start dates.

BAL Analysis: Employers should anticipate delays and submit applications before the holidays if possible. Israeli consular posts abroad will also suspend operations or operate on significantly reduced schedules. Overseas applicants should contact their relevant Israeli consulate for specific holiday schedules.

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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