By Jan Pederson

DOS Announced That Many Holders of Israeli Passports May Enter the United States Visa Free

The Department of State announced on October 19, 2023 that holders of Israeli passports, who are otherwise eligible, may enter the United States temporarily visa free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The visa free travel was previously scheduled to begin November 30, 2023, but has been advanced in light of events in the region. It eliminates the need for Israeli citizens to attempt to obtain visa appointments at overwhelmed Embassies with long backlogs for visa appointments. The rules to use the VWP, also known as ESTA, are that the admission is limited to 90 days; the applicant must have a round trip ticket to return home within 90 days; and must otherwise be admissible as a visitor for pleasure (quite a misnomer in the present climate) or visitor for business. You can find details here: DHS Israeli Visa Free Travel.

USCIS Announces That Initial and Renewal EAD Work Permits and Advance Parole Travel Documents Will Be Issued for Five Years to Many in the Long Line

In an effort to keep vital foreign national workers on the job and have the ability to travel, USCIS has granted five year EAD work permits and Advance Parole Documents to both initial and renewal applicants who have adjustment of status (I-485) applications pending, as well as other applications. This action was taken to alleviate backlogs. You can find more information here: Five Year EADs.

Please contact Jan Pederson at Jan@wcslaw.com if you would like to discuss your specific situation.