FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FUNDED THROUGH NOVEMBER 15

Congress struck an 11th-hour agreement on Saturday to fund the government through November 15.

• Where it stands: Congress is unlikely to finish its fiscal year 2024 government funding work by November 15. The Senate and House of Representatives remain far apart, with both chambers yet to take up most of their appropriations bills or agree on topline funding numbers.
• Why it matters: Without another continuing resolution, the federal government could shut down in mid-November, which could wreak havoc with travel and pause federal government support for events(e.g., government speaker at events, Trade Event Partnership Programstaffing,etc.).

ECA remains active on Capitol Hill on government funding issues since funding legislation could be a vehicle for passing ECA’s top policy priorities such as reducing visa wait times.

ISRAEL ACCEPTED INTO U.S. VISA WAIVER PROGRAM

Last week, Israel’s long-standing application to join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) was approved.

• What it means: From November 30, Israeli exhibitors and attendees will be able to travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.
• By the numbers: Israel is the 41st country to join the VWP, which helps facilitate travel to the U.S. while keeping the country secure.

Unfortunately, Israel may be the last new WVP country for a while. Candidate countries include Brazil, Argentina, and Costa Rica, but none currently meet the security requirements for WVP admission.

VISA WAIT TIMES UPDATE: GOOD NEWS IN CHINA & BRAZIL

Speaking of visas, interview wait times are down in China and Brazil, but rising in Mexico and India.