Hi-Tech Visa Process Changes Implemented for Visa Exempt Nationals

The situation

The Israeli Ministry of Interior amended processes relating to the employment of visa exempt nationals by Israeli hi-tech and cyber companies.

A closer look

• Consular processing. Effective immediately, visa exempt nationals applying for Hi-Tech (HIT) visas must undergo consular processing prior to their arrival in Israel. Previously, such nationals could enter Israel under a visa on arrival.
  • Impact. Depending on the consulate, this will add approximately 30 to 45 days to HIT visa application process. Employers should consider the consular processing times when planning start dates. Fragomen’s co-counsel will contact affected nationals to gather the requisite documentation for this step of the process, which may vary by consular post.

• Longer short-term visa introduced. Israeli hi-tech and cyber employers can apply for a 90-day Short Employment Authorization (SEA) for visa exempt nationals, which has a processing time of up to six business days. Previously, SEAs were only issued for up to 45 days. Employers applying for the longer SEA (for over a 45-day period) will be required to meet the prevailing wage, currently NIS 19,604 per month, whereas for the up to 45-day SEA they do not need to meet this requirement.
  • Impact. Qualifying Israeli hi-tech companies sending visa exempt nationals to Israel for 90 days or less should benefit from this streamlined SEA option but should ensure they comply with the prevailing wage requirement.

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected]. Fragomen worked closely with Kan-Tor & Acco Law Firm (Israel) to prepare this alert.