Introduces 'Innovation Visa' program

The Government of Israel announced the launch of a new incentive programme - 'Innovation Visas for foreign entrepreneurs' - in order to attract innovative foreign entrepreneurs. As part of this program, entrepreneurs will be able to stay in Israel for a period of up to 24 months. During their stay they can apply for support by the Tnufa Program - the early stage startup programme - to develop their innovative ideas. Further, if the project turns into a company, foreign entrepreneurs can file a request to receive support from the Innovation Authority and after receiving approval, can receive an expert visa to work in the company for a period of up to 5 years.

• Type:

  • Promotion and facilitation (Investment incentives)

• Industry:

  • Not industry specific

• Sources:

  • Israel Innovation Authority, Call for Proposals for Organizations willing to host Foreign Entrepreneurs, http://innovation-visa.org.il/en/index.html, 28 Dec 2016
  • Geektime, Bringing the world to the Startup Nation: Israel’s new Innovation Visa, http://www.geektime.com/2016/12/29/bringing-the-world-to-the-startup-nation-israels-new-innovation-visa/, 29 Dec 2016
  • The Times of Israel, Israel opens door for foreign entrepreneurs, http://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-opens-door-for-foreign-entrepreneurs/, 28 Dec 2016