Israel to offer 10-year multiple-entry visas to Chinese nationals

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Israel announced that it will implement an agreement allowing Chinese business and tourist visitors to apply for 10-year multiple-entry visas.

 What does the change mean? The longer-duration visas will allow Chinese visitors to avoid having to apply for Israeli visas upon each entry.

• Implementation time frame: Nov. 11.
• Visas/permits affected: B/2 visitor visas.
• Who is affected: Chinese nationals visiting Israel.
• Business impact: When implemented, Chinese business visitors may apply for the 10-year visas, which allow for multiple entries and stays of up to 90 days for each entry.
• Next steps: Details about the new visas will become available as Israeli consulates in China refine procedures and train officers in the coming months.

Background: The bilateral agreement was signed in March during a joint meeting to promote innovation and cooperation between the two countries. While the agreement is reciprocal, China has not announced an implementation date for the longer-validity visas for Israeli nationals. Israeli consulates in China will issue visa durations according to the foreign national’s invitation letter or other documents, whether three months, one year or 10 years.

BAL Analysis: When fully implemented, the agreement will make it easier for frequent travelers to make business trips between China and Israel.

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

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