Work Permits

Resolution No. 2 amends some provisions of Resolution No. 76 of 2008 on the Regulation of Work-Permits for Foreign Workers Who Are Not Non-Domestic Workers. This resolution ensures that employers looking to renew the work permits of migrant workers have succeeded in preserving workers’ rights, including the timely payment of wages, and did not mistreat them in any way. It also requires employers to register and update data pertaining to their businesses and employees and make other commitments that protect workers’ rights.

The flexi-visa scheme enables regularization for migrants with irregular status working in “non-specialized occupations” through self-sponsorship, with the possibility to work for different employers in exchange for a fee. The purpose for introducing the Flexi-permit scheme was to combat irregular employment and that migrant workers benefiting from the scheme occupy jobs that are not sought by Bahrainis. In February 2019, the fee was increased as part of the National Employment Programme to promote the employment of Bahraini nationals, with a two-year permit costing BHD 1,469.

Law No. 15 sets provisions around foreign domestic workers regarding recruitment, contracts, medical examination and residence permits.

These insurances policies for foreign domestic workers aim to protect employers and provide comprehensive healthcare for domestic workers, building on 2014 regulation that required proof of health and life insurance for domestic workers to obtain work permits.

Regulation No. 12 sets forth licensing procedures, the conditions in which they may carry out their activities, and procedures and penalties that apply for violations of the Regulation.

Ministerial Order No. 67 of 2013 amends Order No. 26 of 2008 regarding fees imposed on foreign employers as well as Bahrani employers for work permits and renewals of residence permits for family members of migrant workers.