In light of the spread of the global Covid-19 pandemic and the discovery of a new mutation of the virus, the Israeli government has decided that as of December 23, 2020, the entry of foreigners into Israel will be banned.

Further to this decision, the Population and Immigration Authority published guidelines regarding exceptional cases in which foreigners will be allowed to enter the country despite the ban.

One of the exceptions stipulates that the entry of experts will be approved however entry will be restricted to the minimum number of entrants necessary. The permit is subject to the recommendation of the relevant government ministry, the approval of the Ministry of Health and the approval of the Foreign Workers Administration. We, therefore, anticipate difficulty in obtaining an entry permit for experts during this time.

Other exceptions apply to the entry of close relatives of Israeli citizens and residents, journalists, artists, athletes and diplomatic passport holders.

These restrictions will remain in effect at least until January 4, 2021.

In addition to the above restrictions, foreigners whose entry is approved may be required to enter quarantine in a state facility.

As a result, we recommend considering the necessity of foreigners arriving in Israel at the moment. It is also advisable to postpone the departure of foreigners who are in Israel to visit their homeland to avoid problems they may face on their return.