Diwali holiday to close government offices

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Diwali (Deepavali) holiday will be celebrated Oct. 22 – 24 in India and Oct. 22 in Singapore and Malaysia.

What does the change mean? Government offices will be closed in observance of the holiday and immigration services will be suspended.

• Implementation timeframe: Oct. 22 – 24.
• Visas/permits affected: All government services.
• Who is affected: Companies and employees applying for immigration and labor services.
• Impact on processing times: Applicants should prepare for processing delays.

Background: Diwali or Deepavali is the Hindu Festival of Lights signifying emergence from physical and spiritual darkness. Times may vary in different parts of India based on variations of the lunar month. Offices in Singapore and Malaysia will be closed in observance of the holiday on Oct. 22.

BAL Analysis: Employers and employees should submit applications before the holiday break to avoid delays.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in Singapore. For additional information, please contact singapore@bal.com.

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