Sri Lankan workers in Israel granted three months visa extensions amidst ongoing unrest

In response to the ongoing unrest in Israel, the Israeli Immigration and Emigration Authority (PIBA) has extended the visa period of Sri Lankan workers currently employed in the country by three months, the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) announced.

According to the SLBFE, the general employment visa including B/1 visas and other categories—set to expire after June 12 will now remain valid till September 30. This decision applies not only to Sri Lankan nationals but also to other foreign workers residing in Israel under similar visa categories.

Currently, approximately 20,000 Sri Lankans are employed in Israel, mostly in the caregiving and agricultural sectors. The Sri Lankan Embassy in Israel, under the direction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety and well-being of its nationals.

In light of the escalating conflict, the Sri Lankan government has expressed its readiness to repatriate workers if the situation deteriorates further. Plans are also underway to facilitate the return of those who have already applied to leave Israel, potentially through transit arrangements with other countries.

Meanwhile, the SLBFE has temporarily halted the deployment of new Sri Lankans to Israel.