In light of the COVID-19 outbreak in Israel, and the significant restrictions imposed on foreign nationals entering Israel, the Population and Immigration Authority has issued a series of guidelines regarding visas for foreigners and foreign workers in Israel. This article summarises the relevant instructions.

Preventing entry of tourists and foreigners

Due to COVID-19, Israel has prohibited foreign nationals from any country from entering its borders, including citizens holding any kind of visa. Only foreign residents who can prove that their 'life centre' is in Israel will be allowed to enter the country. The application for entry must be submitted to the Israel consulate abroad, with appropriate references. Spouses and children of Israeli citizens can also enter the country.

Automatic extension of visas of foreigners staying in Israel

Foreign nationals who hold one of the following types of permit, and whose visa expires soon, will have their visa automatically renewed until 30 June 2020 without needing to contact the Population and Immigration Authority Bureau:

  • A5 visa (temporary residents);
  • B1 visa (work visa without restrictions, not including builders, experts and nurses);
  • A1 visa (people eligible to make Aliyah according to the Law of Return);
  • A2 visa (students);
  • A3 visa (clergy);
  • A4 Visa (visa for accompanying people under A2 and A3 visas); and
  • B4 visa (volunteers).

Extending visas for 'infiltrators' and asylum seekers

Pursuant to Section 2(a)(5) of the Entry into Israel Law (5712-1952), any 'infiltrator' or asylum seeker who holds a residence permit that expires soon will have their visa automatically extended for two months from the date of expiry.

Experts and foreign workers in building and agriculture industries

Employees who hold B1 visas in the building and agriculture industries which expire between 3 March 2020 and 10 May 2020 will have their visa automatically renewed for two months from the end of the original visa. In addition, the permit granted to these employees' employers will also be automatically extended for two months without the need to file an application and pay a fee.