By Amit Acco, Partner |
Recently, a Chinese government-owned company successfully obtained hundreds of work permits through our office to employ skilled workers in a large-scale energy construction project in Israel, expected to span five years.
Skilled Employees in Israel: Unique Technologies and Mechanization Visas
This complex project, valued at an estimated NIS 2 billion, utilizes specialized equipment and technology not available in Israel. Such projects necessitate the employment of skilled foreign workers who possess the specific knowledge and expertise required to operate the unique machinery and equipment imported for the project. Without these foreign workers, the project cannot be completed.
To facilitate the employment of these skilled workers, the Ministry of Interior established the “Procedure for Employment of Foreign Workers in Unique Technologies and Mechanization” in 2017. This procedure applies to projects that involve technologies and equipment not present in Israel and excludes expert employees who are paid at expert rates.
Who Can Apply for Unique Technologies and Mechanization Visas in Israel?
This procedure is designed for large-scale infrastructure projects, such as those involving ports, trains, gas and oil drillings and power plants, where the work can only be performed by foreign workers with unique knowledge and expertise in specific fields.
What Are the Benefits of This Process?
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No requirement for high salaries.
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The permit can be issued for the entire duration of the project, unlike expert permits which are issued for one year and must be renewed annually at the Ministry’s discretion.
The Process
To employ foreign workers in projects involving unique technologies and mechanization, companies must submit a written application at least six months prior to the project’s start date.
This application must include a comprehensive project description, contracts between the Israeli and foreign companies for the work in Israel, and proof of the expected employment of a local Israeli workforce. Additionally, the application should highlight the expertise, qualifications, skills, and knowledge of the foreign workers.
The application will be reviewed by a special inter-ministerial committee, consisting of representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Labor, and the Ministry of Construction and Housing.
Recommendations for a Successful Application
Given the complexity of the application process, it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney experienced in securing work visas for foreign workers, particularly one who specializes in permits for complex construction and infrastructure projects. An attorney with the relevant expertise can help navigate the criteria and ensure the submission of the necessary documents, thereby increasing the likelihood of approval.
Conclusion
Submitting an incomplete or poorly detailed application may result in a reduced number of work permits or, in the worst case, the rejection of the application altogether. It is crucial to present a thorough and well-supported application to ensure a favorable outcome.
