Restrictions on Re-Entry on SEA Visa
Foreign nationals must apply for a new SEA visa each time they seek to enter Israel to engage in short-term employment. The total stay on all SEA visas cannot exceed 30 days within a twelve-month period, as opposed to the previous rule, which allowed 30-day stays each calendar year.
Restrictions for Future B-1 Visa Applicants
Foreign nationals can no longer apply for a standard work visa (B-1) in the twelve months following their last visit in SEA status.
The SEA visa was originally designated for short, urgent stays and repair work. Following a one-year trial for the visa, regulations to restrict it are expected to be published in the future.
What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
Foreign nationals should consider options other than a SEA visa, such as the B-1 work permit, if they expect to work in Israel for longer than 30 days in the next twelve months.
Fragomen worked closely with Kan-Tor & Acco Law Firm (Israel) to prepare this alert. It is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email [email protected].
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