As Chaim V’Chessed has extensively reported , Israel halted the issuance of entry permits for students during the current lockdown. Recent news reports state that the lockdown is likely to be extended; it is unknown how long it will continue for.
This move has created extensive difficulties, particularly for student visa families who reside in Israel. Some of these families have planned travel for the Sukkos holiday, or may have already left the country. They now find themselves unsure if, or when, they can return home.
After extensive talks with officials, we are pleased to share a partial solution for such families: Yeshivas/Kollels may apply for entry permits for students whose center of life is in Israel, with the following rules:
- The applicants must hold valid visas, and their center of life must be in Israel
- They must have left Israel no more than 21 days ago
- Application can only be made once the applicants have left Israel
We cannot stress enough that this information is accurate as of today, September 30. As has been demonstrated throughout the Corona crisis, the rules can – and will – change frequently. If these rules apply to you, have your yeshiva/kollel apply on your behalf immediately. Please bear in mind, however, that entry permits are valid for 14 days only. Hence, there is no point in applying more than 2 weeks before a scheduled return.