After Chaim V’Chessed successfully advocated for permission for student visa families to be allowed into Israel, a new draconian rule was established on June 22. This rule required that any student visa holder who leaves Israel must wait at least 30 days before re-entering. Chaim V’Chessed protested vehemently against this to government officials. The rule was seemingly without legal basis – if visa holders are indeed permitted entry to Israel, why should they be barred for 30 days if they needed to leave the country?
Chaim V’Chessed was contacted by visa holders seeking to travel out of Israel for a variety of reasons including weddings, funerals, and even Roshei Yeshiva travelling to raise much needed funds for their yeshivas. These travelers wished to leave Israel for just a few days – why should they be forced to stay away for 30 days?
As published, after Chaim V’Chessed interceded with government officials, certain leniencies were granted regarding the 30 day rule. For instance, those who could demonstrate that their travel was for a medical reason, a funeral or a wedding were allowed to re-enter Israel in less than 30 days. Still, difficulties posed by this rule persisted.
We are now pleased to announce that the 30 day rule has been abolished. There is no longer any minimum stay abroad required before re-entry to Israel. It should be noted, however, that one cannot apply for an entry permit until he/she has departed from Israel.