ISRAEL – Short Employment Authorisation (SEA) Program Extended to 45 Days
The work permit unit and the Ministry of Interior (MOI) in Israel have announced that the 30-day work authorization program (SEA) has been replaced by a 45-day program, effective October 25, 2015.
What has changed?
The new program allows for work activities in Israel for up to 45 days total in a calendar year, rather than for 30 days. A completed affidavit form, declaring details of the short term employment, to be signed by the Israeli company representative and notarized, must be submitted with the application.
What is the SEA?
Instead of the standard B1 work visa process (a work permit application, followed by a work visa application prior to entry) successful applicants for an SEA permit will obtain an expedited work permit approval allowing them to enter Israel and work immediately, with no further applications.
A separate application, must be submitted prior to each entry, as well as in the case of changing travel dates. The processing time for SEA applications is 6-10 working days from submission, approximately 8 weeks faster than a standard consular B1 visa.
Once in Israel SEA holders can start work immediately, but within two working days of entry they should apply for a B1 work visa at the MOI, which should be issued within two working days. Multiple entry permits are an available option within the permitted period.
The SEA permit applies only to visa waiver nationals. Individuals who are required to obtain visitor visas at the Israeli consulate prior to entry (including Indian, Chinese and Turkish nationals), cannot apply for work authorization under the SEA program.