Government offices across the Middle East, North Africa and Asia are expected to reduce working hours throughout the month of Ramadan. Foreign nationals and employers should anticipate processing delays of certain immigration-related documents. For further information by country, check below:
Indonesia
The government of Indonesia will reduce operating hours at certain immigration offices and Embassy offices during the weeks of Ramadan. Embassy offices will operate from 9 am to 4 pm throughout the business week.
Malaysia
The government of Malaysia Expatriate Services Division (ESD) will reduce operating hours from 23 March 2023 until 21 April 2023.
In-person offices will be open from 9 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday. Call centers will remain open from 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday.
Government offices are anticipated to close from 21 April to 24 April 2023. Foreign nationals should anticipate processing delays.
Saudi Arabia
The government of Saudi Arabia will reduce operating hours at its VFS Global processing center. Reduced operating hours will be in place from 22 March 2023 through 21 April 2023. For further information on specific operating hours, check here.
Kuwait
The government of Kuwait introduced reduced working hours at offices throughout the country during the month of Ramadan. According to the government announcement, working hours should not exceed four and a half hours per day. Offices are expected to maintain staff from the hours of 9:45 am to 2:15 pm.
Continue to check Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.
