Israel: More Flexibility for Construction and Agriculture Work Permits as Bilateral Agreement Scheme Suspended

Due to labor shortages stemming from the commencement of the Israel-Hamas war, the Israeli government has suspended, for a period of three months, until February 20, 2024, the exclusivity of bilateral agreements with countries such as Mainland China, Moldova, Philippines, and Thailand, which governed the recruitment of foreign nationals in the construction and agriculture sector. This suspension will allow Israel to recruit foreign nationals from other countries to work in Israel in these sectors and fill labor gaps. Foreign nationals hired during this period will receive a B-1 work visa with a one-year duration.