ISRAEL – 45-day short-term work authorization now available

What is the change? Israel has terminated its 30-day Short Employment Authorization program and replaced it with a 45-day SEA on a trial basis.

What does the change mean? The SEA allows foreign nationals from visa-waived countries to work in Israel for up to 45 days in a calendar year. The requirements are similar to the previous SEA, except that now employers must submit a signed affidavit.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Short Employment Authorization (SEA) permits.
• Who is affected: Employers sending foreign nationals to Israel for short-term work.
• Impact on processing times: Six to 10 business days.
• Business impact: The SEA now permits a longer duration for foreign employees needing to work in Israel for up to 45 days per year. A separate application must be submitted prior to each entry, as well as when travel dates are changed.

Background: Following recent changes to the SEA program, the Ministry of Interior announced Monday that it has published temporary regulations that replace the 30-day permits with 45-day permits. The regulations are valid until the end of July 2016.

BAL Analysis: The45-day validity period will provide more flexibility. Employers are reminded that SEA permits are available only to foreign nationals who are visa-waived and that a separate application must be submitted before each entry as well as when requesting a change in travel dates.

Our office will be happy to assist you with these visas or any other work visa that you many need for Israel.

Source: BAL