Israel Extends Visas for Sri Lankan Workers Amid Unrest

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Israeli Immigration Service has extended the visa period of Sri Lankan workers in Israel by three months in light of the ongoing conflict in the region.

According to the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE), multiple visa categories including general employment visas, expiring after June 12 have been extended until September 30.

This applies to both Sri Lankans and other foreign nationals residing in Israel.

Currently, around 20,000 Sri Lankan workers are employed in Israel. 

The SLBFE confirmed that the Sri Lankan Embassy in Israel continues to closely monitor their safety.

The bureau also stated that if the conflict escalates further, the government is prepared to repatriate Sri Lankan workers. 

Those who have already applied to return are being brought back via alternative routes through other countries.

In the meantime, the SLBFE has temporarily suspended the deployment of new Sri Lankan workers to Israel until the security situation stabilizes.