Bahrain

WORK VISA PROCESS — BAHRAIN STANDARD EMPLOYMENT VISA STEP 1: Employer applies for work permit via Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) STEP 2: Employment visa issued, stamped at Bahrain Embassy/consulate or on arrival STEP 3: Arrive in Bahrain; medical test and biometrics done STEP 4: CPR (Central Population Registry) card issued — this is your Bahrain ID STEP 5: Work permit activated through LMRA (employer's responsibility) FLEXI WORK PERMIT (UNIQUE TO BAHRAIN) Bahrain offers a revolutionary Flexi Work Permit: • You are NOT tied to a specific employer • Work for multiple employers or clients • Ideal for freelancers, tradespeople, gig workers • Requirements: Self-sponsorship; must be financially self-sufficient • Cost: BHD 450/year • Apply at: lmra.bh/portal This makes Bahrain attractive for entrepreneurs and people changing jobs. DOMESTIC WORKERS • Regulated under Ministerial Order 79/2009 • Employer must provide accommodation, food, transport, healthcare • 1 month paid leave per year after 1 year of service • Rest: 9 hours per day minimum LABOR RIGHTS • Annual leave: 30 days/year • Probation: Max 3 months • Overtime: 1.25x (weekday), 1.5x (holiday) • End of Service Benefit: 1 month per year for first 3 years; 1.5 months thereafter • Complaint: LMRA — tamkeen.bh or +973-17506090 IMPORTANT NOTES • Bahrain has a well-developed online system for labor complaints • Migrant Workers' Protection Society (MWPS) provides free legal help