How to Get a Work Visa & Authorization in Bahrain

For companies hiring international talent in the Gulf region, Bahrain presents an attractive opportunity: a strategic location, a diversified economy, and a business-friendly environment. But before employers can tap into the Kingdom's global workforce, they must navigate Bahrain's visa and work authorization process.

Understanding the legal steps required to employ foreign talent isn't just a formality — it ensures compliance, protects workers, and supports long-term operations in the region.

Role of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA)

In Bahrain, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) oversees work visas and labor-related permits for foreign nationals. The LMRA acts as a central authority managing the recruitment, sponsorship, and labor rights of expatriate workers. All employers seeking to hire foreign workers must register with the LMRA and apply for work permits through its official portal. The LMRA also plays a critical role in monitoring employer compliance and worker conditions.

Types of work visas in Bahrain

Bahrain primarily issues employment visas under two categories:

Standard work permits. Issued for two years and tied to a specific employer. These are for long-term employees.
Flexi permits. Designed for certain low-income or self-employed workers already in Bahrain. These permits allow more flexible employment across multiple employers.

Short-term business visas are also available, but they don't allow holders to take up formal employment. For companies planning to hire full-time staff, the standard work permit is the most common route.

Requirements for Bahrain work visa

Both employers and employees must meet specific eligibility criteria:

Employers must be registered in Bahrain and in good standing with the LMRA. They must also prove that the role cannot be filled locally.
Employees must have a valid passport and qualifications aligned with the job role.

Required documents include:

A copy of the employee’s passport
An offer or employment contract signed by both parties
A medical certificate issued by an LMRA-approved clinic
Proof of accommodation and commercial registration from the employer

These documents are submitted digitally through the LMRA’s Expatriate Management System.

Bahrain work visa application process

Employers begin by ensuring their company is registered with the LMRA if it is not already. They then submit all required documentation along with the employee’s details. Visa fees must be paid at this stage, with costs varying based on the sector and the duration of the permit. After submission, the LMRA reviews the application, typically providing a decision within five to ten business days. Once the application is approved, the employee can either enter Bahrain on the approved visa or, if already present in the country, transition to the newly issued work permit.

Visa issuance fees range between US$265–$795, depending on the length of stay and sector. Employers must also budget for medical exams and insurance.

Employer obligations and responsibilities

Companies that hire foreign workers in Bahrain carry legal responsibilities beyond just visa sponsorship. Key obligations include:

Obtaining a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant authorities, if required
Ensuring timely renewal of work permits before expiration
Maintaining accurate labor records and proof of salary payments
Covering the costs associated with recruitment and repatriation

Non-compliance with LMRA rules can result in penalties, suspension of employer accounts, or bans on future work permits.

FAQ

Can a foreigner work in Bahrain without a visa?

No. All foreign nationals must obtain a valid work permit before beginning employment. Working without a permit is illegal and subject to fines and deportation.

Can a visit visa be converted into a work visa?

In some cases, yes. If the individual is already in Bahrain on a visit visa, the employer may apply to convert it to a work permit without requiring the individual to leave the country. However, approval depends on LMRA guidelines and documentation.

Tips for a successful application

Getting work authorization in Bahrain can be a smooth process if employers follow a few best practices:

Ensure all required documents are accurate, complete, and uploaded to the LMRA portal without delays.
Schedule the employee’s medical test at an approved clinic as soon as possible.
Keep communication lines open with LMRA representatives to resolve issues quickly.

The process can be made even easier by using global employment services.

Utilizing support from EOR providers

An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party service that acts as the legal employer of a company’s international workforce. An EOR handles employment responsibilities — including work visa sponsorship, payroll, tax filings, and compliance with local labor laws.

For companies expanding into Bahrain, using an EOR means avoiding the need to establish a local entity. The EOR manages the full scope of legal and HR processes, allowing businesses to focus on operations and growth.

How Velocity Global can help

Expanding a team into Bahrain comes with exciting opportunities and complex compliance requirements. Velocity Global simplifies international hiring by handling onboarding, payroll, and local compliance through our Employer of Record solution.

By partnering with us, companies can hire talent in Bahrain without the hassle of setting up a local entity. Our team ensures all employees have the appropriate work authorization and that employers remain compliant with Bahrain’s labor laws.

This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free.

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