Working Legally in Bahrain
It is necessary for expats to obtain a work permit in order to work legally in Bahrain. Expats who wish to work in Bahrain must have a valid work permit in order to do so. This requirement applies to all foreign nationals, regardless of their country of origin or the type of work they will be performing.
Who Must Make the Application?
The application for a work permit must be made by the expat’s employer. The employer is responsible for obtaining the necessary documents, completing the application, and submitting it to the relevant authorities. The expat themselves is not required to make the application, although they may be asked to provide certain documents or information as part of the process
there are some exemptions to the work permit requirement. Expats who are married to Bahraini citizens, for example, may be eligible to work in Bahrain without a work permit. Additionally, some categories of foreign workers, such as executives and managers, may also be exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit.
Types of Work Permits for Expats in Bahrain
There are several different types of work permits available for expats in Bahrain. The most common types of work permits include:
Work visas: These are issued for a specific job or position, and are typically valid for a period of two years. They can be renewed if the expat continues to work in the same position.
Residence visas: These are issued for a specific length of time, typically up to five years. They allow expats to live and work in Bahrain, and may be renewed if the expat continues to work in the same position.
Freelance visas: These are issued for expats who wish to work as freelancers or entrepreneurs in Bahrain.
Work Permit Application Process in Bahrain
The procedure to apply for a work permit in Bahrain involves several steps, including:
The employer must submit a request for a work permit to the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.
The employer must provide the necessary documents, including the expat’s passport, academic and professional certificates, and a certificate of good conduct.
The employer must also provide a copy of the work contract, which must be signed by both the employer and the expat.
The Ministry of Labor and Social Development will review the application and, if approved, will issue the work permit.
How long does it take
The time it takes to obtain a work permit in Bahrain can vary, depending on the circumstances. Typically, it takes several weeks to obtain a work permit. However, it is important to allow sufficient time for the application to be processed, as delays may occur.
Work Permit Documents in Bahrain
To apply for a work permit in Bahrain, expats need to provide several documents. The requirements vary depending on the job position and the employer, but here are some of the common documents required:
- A passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- A valid Bahrain entry visa
- A copy of the employment contract signed by the employer and the employee
- A letter from the employer requesting the work permit
- Educational certificates and qualifications
- A medical certificate from an approved medical centre in Bahrain
- A criminal record certificate issued by the expat’s home country or by Bahrain
- A copy of the CPR (Central Population Registry) card, which is an identification card issued by the Bahraini government
Additional documents may be required, depending on the individual case. It is important to consult with the employer and the relevant authorities for the specific requirements.
What Costs are Involved in Applying for a Work Permit in Bahrain?
There are several costs involved in applying for a work permit in Bahrain, including:
- A work permit fee of BD 200 (approximately USD 530) for a two-year permit
- A residency permit fee of BD 22 (approximately USD 58) per year
- A medical examination fee of BD 40 (approximately USD 105)
- A fingerprinting fee of BD 10 (approximately USD 27)
- Translation and attestation fees for required documents
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, and additional fees may apply depending on the individual case.
Where Can Expats Go for Reliable Information on Working Legally in Bahrain?
Expats who wish to work legally in Bahrain can find reliable information and guidance from the following websites:
- Ministry of Labour and Social Development (http://www.mlsd.gov.bh/) ‘s the official website of the Bahraini government agency responsible for regulating the labour market and protecting workers’ rights.
- LMRA (https://www.lmra.bh/) ‘s the Labour Market Regulatory Authority is the agency responsible for issuing work permits and regulating the labour market in Bahrain. The LMRA website provides information on work permit procedures and requirements, as well as online services for work permit applications and renewals.
- Expat.com (https://www.expat.com/en/guide/middle-east/bahrain/13019-work-in-bahrain.html) ‘s an online platform that provides information and resources for expats living and working in Bahrain. The website features articles and forums on a range of topics related to living and working in Bahrain, including work permits, job opportunities, and the cost of living.
