By Senior Partner Amit Acco
Due to the spike of COVID-19 cases in recent weeks a lockdown has been imposed which may extend beyond the initial 3 weeks if conditions do not improve. The announcement was made yesterday amidst criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over his handling of the COVID crises.
According to the regulation, workplaces in the private sector would be allowed to operate at no more than 50%, while being closed to the public.
Movement of private individuals will be restricted to 500 meters from home. Public sector offices will be able to provide services in a limited capacity. Restaurants will be limited to take away, commerce banned, schools closed, and congregations limited to no more than 10 people indoors and 20 outside.
The effect of the lockdown on air travel in and out of Israel of Foreign Experts and Israelis is not yet clear. A team headed by several Ministries are expected to issue their recommendation later today.
KTA specialists anticipate that all visa applications will either be put on hold or processed slowly by the Ministry of Interior. It is expected that Israeli Consulates will continue to work according to the regulations in their host countries.
Employers are recommended to cancel any travel in/out of Israel of their expats before Friday, September 18.
