Reminder: October holidays likely to delay processing

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Israeli government offices will be closed for almost all of October as the country celebrates the Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Yom Kippur and Sukkot.

What does the change mean? Applicants should expect delays during October and early November.

• Implementation time frame: October 2016.
• 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 during October and into November, when offices reopen.
• Business impact: Employers should factor in the holiday closures and ensuing delays when planning business schedules and start dates.

Background: Offices will be closed for nearly the entire month of October for Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Yom Kippur and Sukkot. The Ministry of Interior will only be open the following days: Oct. 5-6, 9-10, 13, 25-27 and 30-31. The Work Permit Unit will only be open to the public for three days (Oct. 10, 25 and 31) for submission of work permit applications or receipt of approvals. Israeli consular posts abroad will also suspend operations or operate on significantly reduced schedules.

BAL Analysis: Employers should anticipate delays and submit applications before the holidays if possible. Overseas applicants should contact the relevant Israeli consulate for individual 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.

About Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP
Founded in 1980, Berry Appleman & Leiden (BAL) provides comprehensive global immigration services from six offices across the U.S. and from offices in Geneva, London, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney. BAL manages global visa matters and customized application approaches for work permits, business visas, and residence permits in more than 100 countries. With a single cost center for worldwide operations, BAL offers centralized management with regional and local support for the complete spectrum of global immigration matters.

Source: Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP