Chaim V’Chessed continues to be at the forefront of the ongoing saga of entry permits to Israel.
Unmarried Students
As we reported last week, unmarried students are now barred from entering Israel. This ban even extends to those who already received entry permits. Our representatives worked late into the night on Thursday to secure the release of a group of students who arrived after the ban took effect. These efforts were chronicled on an Israeli radio station this morning.
Obtaining a Visa Abroad?
At this time, entry permits are only being granted for married persons, holding valid visas. Normally, one can apply for a student visa abroad, at Israeli consulates or embassies. However, at this time, most embassies and consulates abroad are closed for non-emergency services, including visas. Additionally, even when they reopen, we are uncertain if entry permits will be granted on the basis of visas which were just issued. Presumably, renewals of visas abroad will be acceptable.
Permits for Babies?
Numerous visa holder families have received permits to enter Israel. However, while the parents and grown children have received permits, often, newborn babies have not received permits. This can usually be traced to the fact that the baby does not hold a valid visa. This is often the case if the baby was born close to or during the Corona era, when it has been difficult or impossible to obtain a visa.
Chaim V’Chessed has dialogued with Border Police at Ben Gurion airport on this issue. These officials have averred that babies whose parents hold entry permits will be allowed to enter Israel, provided that the family furnishes proof of lineage, via a birth certificate. Even a copy of the birth certificate will suffice.
We are attempting to obtain a formal, written confirmation of this ruling, which will then be able to be shared with airline officials abroad.
Difficulties for Students Who Have Changed Yeshivas
The yeshiva whose name appears printed on your student visa needs to apply for you to receive permission to enter Israel. This creates a difficulty for those who have switched to a different yeshiva or kollel. It would be best if original institution applies on your behalf. However, many institutions are unwilling to apply on behalf of students who are no longer registered with them. Until recently, if your new yeshiva or kollel supplied proof that you receive Datot thru them, a permit was issued. However, in recent days, even this has not been sufficient.We are aware of this issue, and are in touch with government officials regarding it.
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