In Israel, the process for obtaining an employment permit for a specialized foreign worker is governed by the Ministry of the Interior. For a company to successfully hire a foreign expert, it must first demonstrate that the expert has specialized skills that are unavailable in the Israeli labor market. After this, the company must secure an employment permit from the Ministry of the Interior, which in turn grants the expert a one-year work visa for Israel. This visa can be extended annually, up to a maximum duration of five years.
How much does it cost to get a work visa in Israel? That depends on various factors, but what’s clear is that both the company and the foreign worker need to follow certain regulations, which this article will delve into.
What Types Of Visas Are Available For Expert Foreign Workers In Israel?
In Israel, a specialized work visa designed for foreign experts is known as a B/1 work visa. The permit for employing a foreign worker, especially one deemed an expert in their respective field, belongs to a particular category of Israeli work permits. It sets out specific conditions and legal requirements that must be met by the company wishing to hire a foreign expert. How much does it cost to get a work visa in Israel? The cost can vary, but adhering to the laws and regulations is a fundamental aspect that cannot be overlooked.
What Do Israeli Companies Need To Prove To Employ A Foreign Worker?
To employ a foreign expert, Israeli companies must establish that the potential employee possesses unique skills or knowledge lacking among local workers. Israel aims to minimize the number of foreign workers to create more job opportunities for its citizens. Therefore, the Ministry of the Interior is committed to reducing the number of work visas issued to foreign experts annually.
How Do Expert Foreign Workers Benefit The Israeli Economy?
A foreign expert can significantly contribute to the growth of the Israeli company that hires them. Such expertise can lead to economic growth and increased employment opportunities for local Israelis. As a result, Israel has a specific procedure for issuing work permits to foreign experts. Companies must be willing to pay the foreign expert at least twice the average salary that an Israeli worker would receive for similar work. They must also obtain approval from the Permits Committee of the Ministry of the Interior, verifying the necessity of hiring the expert.
In Which Sectors Can Foreign Experts Work?
The Ministry of the Interior’s policy outlines that companies interested in employing foreign experts must pay them at least double the average Israeli salary. Alternatively, they can employ a local manager or representative from an international company. Foreign experts often find employment opportunities in diverse fields such as medicine, high-tech, academia, arts, and industry.
So, how much does it cost to get a work visa in Israel? While the financial aspect may vary, what remains constant are the rigorous criteria and procedural nuances that both the employing company and the foreign expert must navigate.
Who Is Ineligible For An Expert Foreign Worker Employment Permit In Israel?
According to Israeli law, not everyone can qualify for an expert foreign worker employment permit. Specifically, individuals already residing in Israel under any other form of permit cannot convert their existing permit into a B\1 work permit. The application process for a work permit must start when the applicant is outside of Israel and will typically be processed through an Israeli consulate abroad. Moreover, individuals over the age of 60 are not eligible for a work permit. Even if an expert foreign worker has first-degree relatives living in Israel—be it a spouse, sibling, or parent—they will not be eligible for a work permit, regardless of their relatives’ legal status in the country.
What Are The Steps To Apply For An Expert Foreign Worker Employment Permit?
Securing a visa for a foreign expert involves a two-stage process. Initially, the Department of Specialist Workers issues an employment permit. Subsequently, the Ministry of the Interior releases a B/1 work visa that is valid for one year. This visa must be renewed annually for up to five years, although there are special cases where an extension beyond five years is possible. Renewal is contingent upon the foreign worker continuing to meet the required criteria.
What Are The Documentation Requirements For Hiring An Expert Foreign Worker?
The Department for the Certification of Employment of Expert Foreign Workers mandates several forms and conditions. These include an online application filled out by the Israeli company, the company’s registration certificate, and various other financial and supporting documents. The Israeli company must also provide evidence of the foreign worker’s educational and professional qualifications.
How much does it cost to get a work visa in Israel? An application fee of 1,300 NIS (as of 2023) applies, payable online by credit card. A yearly fee of 10340 NIS for every year the visa is active. And of course, the worker’s salary at at least twice the average Israeli wage—approximately 20,000 NIS as of January 2023.
What Authority Does The Ministry Of The Interior Have In Visa Issuance?
After the initial approval from the Department of Foreign Expert Workers, the Ministry of the Interior holds the power to validate the employment permit and attach a B/1 work visa to the foreign worker’s passport. If the foreign worker is outside of Israel at that time, the work visa can be sent to an Israeli consulate in the foreign worker’s country for printing. It’s crucial that the worker enters Israel with this visa to avoid any entry issues at the airport.
What Documents Are Required For B/1 Visa Approval?
Multiple documents must be submitted to finalize the issuance of a B/1 work visa. These include a form from the Ministry of the Interior, validation from the department for expert employees, a passport photo, and even marital and familial status documents if applicable. Health insurance coverage for the foreign worker and their family is also necessary.
Can The Ministry Of The Interior Reject A Work Visa Application?
The Ministry generally approves permits issued by the Department of Expert Foreign Workers. However, there are cases where the Ministry may reject a work visa application, especially if there are concerns about the foreign worker’s intent to settle in Israel permanently or if they have a criminal record.
Can Companies Extend The Duration Of A Foreign Worker’s Employment?
After the initial employment period is over, companies have the option to request an extension of the foreign worker’s stay for additional years. It’s not merely a straightforward renewal process; the company and the worker must adhere to various rules and regulations. The conditions for extending the employment are complex, and this article aims to provide an overview of them.
How Can Our Law Firm Assist In Work Visas For Expert Foreign Workers?
Our law firm specializes in immigration issues not only to Israel but also to various other countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and more. We assist Israeli and international companies in hiring foreign professionals with significant expertise in fields such as high-tech and medicine. Feel free to contact us via phone or email for more information. How much does it cost to get a work visa in Israel? While the fees can vary, it’s crucial to navigate the legal complexities efficiently, something our firm can certainly assist with.
