Dear Clients and Partners,
In light of the current security situation in Israel, stemming from the recent attack by the Hamas terrorist organization on the morning of October 7, we wish to provide you with the following important updates:
Personal Security:
The Population and Immigration Authority urges foreign visitors and workers in Israel to exercise vigilance, to familiarize themselves with shelter areas in the immediate vicinity, to familiarize themselves with evacuation times, and to adhere to the defense directives issued by the Home Front Command (“Pikud Ha-Oref”). For your convenience, it is advisable to install the Home Front Command mobile app, which offers real-time alerts (the app is available in English, Russian, and Arabic).
Flight Schedule Changes:
Ben Gurion International Airport continues to operate normally.
However, effective immediately and until further notice, international flights initially scheduled to depart from Terminal 1 will now depart from Terminal 3, as well as all domestic flights.
Also, please keep in mind that several airlines have announced changes to flight schedules and cancellations. Among the affected carriers are British Airways, Iberia, Smart Wings, Lufthansa, Delta Airlines, and others.
We strongly suggest that passengers traveling to or from Israel (and their respective employers, where applicable) maintain direct communication with the airlines, especially as the flight date approaches.
Visa Extension:
The Population and Immigration Authority has extended the visas of all foreigners in Israel holding lawful visas set to expire within the next month. This extension applies to visitors (B-2 visa) and foreign workers (B-1 visa). These visas have been extended until November 9, 2023. No certificate or visa sticker stamped in the passport is required for this extension. Following this period, it is essential to formalize the visitor/employee’s status unless otherwise notified.
We will continue to provide updates on this matter as they become available, and we’ll be happy to help you with any other questions or help you may need.
Sincerely,
Immigration Team
Shibolet & Co.
The provisions of this memorandum are given as general information only, and should not be relied upon in any individual case without additional legal advice.