Immigration Department to resume services following closure, strike

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Costa Rica’s Directorate of Migration is expected to reopen Tuesday following a general strike of public workers that closed the office Monday.

What does the change mean? The length of the strike has not been announced, but the Directorate is currently scheduling appointments for Tuesday and thereafter.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate.
• Visas/permits affected: All immigration services.
• Who is affected: Those seeking visas, work permits and residency permits and renewals.
• Impact on processing times: Employers and applicants should anticipate some delays as the strike is nationwide and affects all public services, transportation, education and other offices, as well as some private unions that joined the strike.

Background: The Directorate closed last week in light of an investigation into several officials’ involvement in trafficking, and a labor strike of public workers closed government offices on Monday. The unions have called for an indefinite strike, so it is not clear how long it will last.

BAL Analysis: It appears that the strike may end on Monday, as applicants are currently able to book appointments for this week, but applicants should prepare for delays if the strike continues.

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

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