The global companies often necessitate the short-term presence of foreign experts in Israel. The Interior Ministry defines the process of obtaining a short-term work visa through a specific procedure aimed at managing and expediting requests for the employment of foreign experts for short periods. In this article, you will find detailed information regarding the procedure, its requirements, and its implications.
Objective of the procedure
The primary goal of this procedure is to facilitate the legal employment of foreign experts, who are citizens of visa-exempt countries (citizens of these countries can enter Israel without previously requested entry visa), for a period not exceeding 90 days within a calendar year. This procedure is essential for balancing international business needs with the regulatory requirements of Israel.
Key aspects of the procedure
- Eligibility and conditions:
- The expert must hold a valid passport from a country that is exempt from entry visas to Israel.
- The expert is invited for a temporary task requiring unique expertise.
- The expert has not stayed in Israel for more than 90 days consecutively or cumulatively in the current calendar year.
- Application process:
- The employing company must apply for a work permit, accompanied by supporting documents such as a detailed letter explaining the need for the expert, the expert’s credentials, and proof of payment of the required fees.
- The application must include the expert’s passport details, CV, and relevant certificates translated into Hebrew if the language of the original document is not English.
- Issuance of permits:
- Upon approval, the expert is issued a work permit, allowing them to enter Israel.
- The expert must receive their work visa (B/1) from the MOI (Ministry of Interior) office within two working days of their arrival.
- Responsibilities and compliance:
- The employer is responsible for ensuring that the expert adheres to the conditions of the permit.
- The expert can work only in the specific role and for the specific employer mentioned in the permit. Any change requires a new permit.
- Duration and extensions:
- The permit is valid for up to 90 days and is non-renewable. If further employment is required, the expert must leave Israel and a new application must be submitted according to the appropriate procedures.
Practical considerations
- Logistical planning: Companies should plan their needs well in advance, considering the processing times for permit applications.
- Legal compliance: Employers must ensure full compliance with all regulations to avoid penalties and ensure the smooth operation of their projects.
- Health insurance: Employers must provide health insurance for the duration of the expert’s stay in Israel, as stipulated by law.
Conclusion
The procedure for bringing foreign experts to Israel on a 90-day visa was developed to meet the dynamic needs of global companies while ensuring regulatory compliance. By following this procedure, companies can effectively leverage international expertise for short-term projects, thereby enhancing their operational capabilities and contributing to the economic development of Israel.
For more detailed information – contact our office and our lawyers will help you on the matter.