Delays in consular and apostille procedures
Currently, the employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the consular departments of all Israeli missions around the world are on a partial strike.
In this regard, apostille services for formal legalization of documents will not be provided for the duration of the strike. Delays and cancellations are also occurring in the processing of work visas. Israeli consulates are processing these more slowly or, in some cases, not at all.
Background to the strike
The strike is the result of a long-running dispute between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs over the compensation and tax benefits of Israeli consular employees.
Employers are therefore strongly advised to schedule delays in applying for apostilles. For foreign nationals wishing to use the services of Israeli consulates, it is recommended that they contact the appropriate consulate for visa procedures as early as possible before traveling to determine if the office in question is affected by the strike.
Current Israeli immigration closures for the 2022 holidays
- Passover and Mimuna: April 14, 2022 – April 26, 2022
- Independence Day: May 5, 2022
During holidays and vacations, Israeli consulates will not process work permits and visa applications. Israel’s consular offices abroad are also closed or operate on a limited basis during the vacations. For this reason, there may be delays in processing and issuing visas.
Employers and foreign nationals should take this into account when scheduling their appointments in connection with visa applications. Applicants are therefore advised to check with their local consulate for the current closures due to the April and May 2022 holidays.
Do you need help with your work visa application? Then we are your point of contact. We look forward to your call or message:
Source: Kann-Tor & Acco Client Alert April 2022
