Work Permit And Visa Processing For Bahrain

Here is a detailed guide on the work permit and visa processing for Bahrain:

1. Understand the Types of Work Visas

Bahrain offers several types of visas for expatriates, including:

Work Visa: For employees sponsored by a Bahraini employer.
Business Visa: For business-related activities but not for employment.
Visit Visa: For short-term visits, not for employment.

2. Requirements for a Work Visa

To obtain a work visa for Bahrain, you will need:

A valid passport: With at least six months of validity.
A confirmed job offer: From a Bahraini employer.
Medical Certificate: Showing that you are free of communicable diseases.
Educational Certificates: Verified and attested copies of relevant degrees and diplomas.
Police Clearance Certificate: Demonstrating a clean criminal record.

3. Sponsorship by a Bahraini Employer

Your employer in Bahrain will act as your sponsor and is responsible for submitting your visa application to the Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). The sponsor must:

Submit an application on your behalf.
Provide a copy of the employment contract.
Submit necessary documents to the LMRA.

4. Medical Examination

You will need to undergo a medical examination either in your home country or upon arrival in Bahrain. The exam includes tests for HIV, hepatitis B, and tuberculosis. Once you pass, you’ll receive a health certificate.

5. Submission of Documents

Your sponsor will need to submit the following documents to the LMRA:

Completed visa application form.
Passport-sized photographs.
Copy of your passport.
Health certificate.
Educational and professional certificates.
Employment contract.

6. Processing Time

The processing time for a work visa can vary but typically takes between 1 to 4 weeks. Ensure all documents are complete and correctly submitted to avoid delays.

7. Issuance of Work Permit

Once your work visa is approved, you will receive a work permit. This permit allows you to legally work in Bahrain and is typically valid for 1 to 2 years, depending on the employment contract.

8. Resident Permit

After arriving in Bahrain, you must apply for a Resident Permit. Your sponsor will assist with this process, which includes:

Fingerprinting and biometric data collection.
Another medical examination.
Submission of all documents to the General Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Residence (NPRA).

9. Renewals and Transfers

Work permits and resident permits must be renewed before expiration. If you change jobs, your new employer must handle the transfer of your work permit.

Important Tips

Consult with a professional: Consider seeking assistance from legal experts or visa consultants familiar with Bahraini immigration laws.
Stay updated: Immigration policies can change, so check the latest guidelines from the Bahraini government or your local Bahraini embassy.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smoother process for obtaining a work visa and permit in Bahrain.

For the Contact Work Permit and Visa Processing please contact us.