In an era of global talent mobility, securing an expert visa is a critical step for companies looking to hire international experts and for professionals seeking global opportunities. This short guide aims to simplify the expert visa process for both employers and skilled professionals, ensuring a smooth transition into the international workforce.
Under Israeli law, an expert work permit can be issued for both foreign and Israeli companies, signifying that companies without a formal representation or physical presence in Israel are still eligible to apply for and secure work permits for foreign experts. This inclusive approach facilitates international businesses and professionals to engage in specialized work within Israel, regardless of the company’s geographical location or the establishment of a local Israeli office, thereby promoting global talent exchange and collaboration.
Companies must first understand the specific visa requirements and procedures in Israel. This includes eligibility criteria, documentation, and processing times.
When applying for a work permit in Israel for a foreign expert, the following documentation is required to be submitted to the permit department:
Passport copy of the expert: A clear and current copy of the expert’s passport, showing personal details and validity.
CV of the expert: A comprehensive curriculum vitae detailing the expert’s professional background, including work experience, skills, and accomplishments relevant to the expertise.
Expert’s diploma: Copies of the expert’s academic qualifications, such as degrees or certifications, that validate their expertise in the relevant field.
Company’s incorporation certificate: Official documentation proving the legal registration and incorporation of the company seeking to employ the expert.
The relevant form: A completed application form as specified by the Israeli permit department for work permit applications.
Confirmation of ongoing business: Evidence that demonstrates the company’s active and ongoing business operations, such as financial statements or corporate activity reports.
Document confirming authorized signature: A document that verifies the identity and authority of the person signing the application and related documents on behalf of the company.
Form 102: This is a mandatory form in Israel for employer-employee arrangements, detailing the terms of employment.
Explanation letter: A letter articulating the necessity of the expert’s presence in Israel, explaining how their specific skills or knowledge are essential for the intended role or project.
Police background check (For First-Time Applicants): A clean criminal record report for the expert, especially important for first-time applicants to ensure compliance with legal and security standards.
Family Documents (If Applicable): If the expert plans to arrive in Israel with family members, additional documents such as the marriage certificate and birth certificates of any children should be included.
Application assistance
Assist your prospective employees with their visa applications. This might include providing necessary information, helping with form submissions, and offering guidance through the process.
Eligibility and credentials
The company has to ensure the expert meets the necessary qualifications, including educational degrees and professional experience. Gather all relevant certificates and letters of recommendation.
Application process
Initially, the company must apply for a work permit on behalf of the foreign expert. This involves submitting all the required documents, such as the expert’s passport copy, CV, academic diplomas, company incorporation certificate, the relevant application form, confirmation of ongoing business, document confirming authorized signature, Form 102, an explanation letter detailing the necessity of the expert’s presence in Israel. The application is reviewed by the permit department, which assesses the eligibility and necessity of the expert for the role in question.
Once the work permit is approved and issued, the next step is to apply for the expert visa.
The expert visa application is processed through the MOI and Israeli consulate or embassy in the expert’s home country.
The visa application may require additional documentation, including the approved work permit, and possibly further personal and professional details of the expert.
Upon successful processing, the expert visa is granted, allowing the expert to legally enter and work in Israel.
Conclusion
The expert visa process, while intricate, is a gateway to global professional opportunities. For companies, it’s an avenue to enrich their workforce with international expertise. For professionals, it’s a path to expand their career horizons. By understanding and meticulously following the visa procedures, both parties can successfully navigate this journey, leading to fruitful international collaborations and career advancements. The process of obtaining an expert visa is rather complicated legal process, so it’s worth to consider consulting with immigration.
