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IMPACT – MEDIUM
What are the changes? Many government offices close for a number of holidays across the world at the end of the year and in early 2015. Christmas and New Year’s Day will close most government agencies for one or more days on and around Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
What does the change mean? Companies applying for work permits and other services should file applications early to avoid the seasonal rush.
Background: Almost all countries have holidays scheduled for Dec. 25, 2014, and Jan. 1, 2015. Many countries will also reduce business hours in the days surrounding Christmas and New Year’s and close completely on Dec. 26 and Jan. 2. Most Islamic countries will also close Jan. 3 to observe Eid Mawlid al-Nabi, Prophet’s Birthday.
Some countries may close for extended periods in the coming months. Russia observes a New Year’s holiday Jan. 1- 5 and Orthodox Christmas Jan. 7. China does not mark Dec. 25 as an official public holiday, but will close Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day and the week of Feb. 19-26 to celebrate the lunar Chinese New Year.
BAL Analysis: Companies should anticipate slower processing of visas, residence permits and work permits until offices reopen in early January. Employers should be cognizant of these closures and plan to file immigration-related applications as soon as possible.
This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.
Copyright © 2016 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.
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