Eid al-Fitr holiday will close offices, consulates

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which will begin next week, will close offices and delay processing of applications in countries across the Middle East, North Africa and parts of Asia, and at consular missions around the world.

What does the change mean? Offices will close for one to seven business days, depending on the country. Applicants should expect delays in processing of visas and work permits.

• Implementation time frame: Exact dates vary from country to country.
• Visas/permits affected: All visas, permits and other immigration services.
• Who is affected: Applicants any visa or permit in a country celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
• Impact on processing times: Processing will be delayed, especially in countries with prolonged closures.

Background: Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast) marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated with three or more days of festivities. The holiday is also known as Ramazan Bayrami in Turkey, Hari Raya Puasa in a number of Asian countries, and Korité or Tabaski in West Africa. Offices will be closed on the following business days:

• Indonesia – June 4-5.
• Iraq – Iraqi Federal Government: June 4-6; Kurdistan Regional Government: June 2-6.
• Malaysia – June 4-7.
• Oman – June 4-6.
• Qatar – June 2-6 and June 9-10.
• Saudi Arabia – May 30, June 2-6.
• Singapore – June 5.
• Turkey – June 3-7.
• United Arab Emirates – June 3-6.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should anticipate delays because of the holiday and may need to adjust time lines and start dates. Companies may wish to contact their immigration provider for individual country and consular schedules.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.