Bahrain Work Visa: Processing Time And Requirements

If you're planning to work in Bahrain, you'll need to get a work visa. The processing time for a Bahrain work visa is typically between 3 and 10 business days if the employee is already in the country, and 18 to 25 business days if they are outside of Bahrain. However, it's important to note that the time frame can vary depending on several factors, including the efficiency of document submission, completeness of the application, quality and clarity of documents, workload of approval authorities, and the previous record of the candidate.

To obtain a Bahrain work visa, foreign professionals must first obtain a residency visa and a work permit, also known as a labour card. The work visa is typically valid for one to two years and grants residency to employees. The cost of a Bahrain work visa ranges from BHD 172 (approximately $456) for one year to BHD 344 (approximately $912) for two years.

Processing time: 5-10 business days if the employee is in Bahrain, 18-25 business days if they are outside Bahrain

The processing time for a Bahrain work visa depends on whether the employee is inside or outside Bahrain. If the employee is already in Bahrain, the processing time is typically 5-10 business days. However, if the employee is outside Bahrain, the processing time increases to 18-25 business days.

The Bahrain work visa process involves several steps and requirements that must be completed before an individual can legally work in the country. The sponsoring company or employer plays a crucial role in the application process, handling most of the paperwork and submitting the necessary documents.

When applying for a Bahrain work visa, it is essential to consider the employee's current location and visa status. If the employee is already in Bahrain, the process is relatively faster. However, if the employee is outside Bahrain, the process takes longer and may involve additional steps, such as advertising the job vacancy in local newspapers for a specified period.

The efficiency of the process also depends on the employer's ability to submit complete and clear documents. Any missing or incomplete documents can cause delays in the processing time. Additionally, the workload of the approval authorities and the previous record of the candidate can influence the overall timeline.

It is worth noting that the Bahrain work visa fee and requirements may vary depending on the employee's nationality and specific circumstances. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult official sources or seek expert guidance for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the processing time and requirements of the Bahrain work visa.

Cost: $40-266, or BHD 172 for one year, BHD 344 for two years

The cost of a Bahrain work visa varies depending on the duration of the visa and the processing speed selected. The standard fee for a one-year work permit visa is BHD 172, which is approximately $456. For a two-year work visa, the fee is BHD 344, or approximately $912. These fees are paid to obtain the work permit, which is a crucial component of the Bahrain work visa.

It is important to note that the Bahrain work visa also includes the residence permit, which allows visa holders to live and work in Bahrain for up to two years. The residence permit must be obtained in addition to the work permit, and both are required to comprise the complete Bahrain work visa.

The cost of the Bahrain work visa may also be influenced by factors such as the nationality of the applicant and the specific circumstances of their employment. For example, if an employee is already in Bahrain on a visit visa, there will be an additional fee of BHD 60 for transferring from a visit visa to an employment visa. This fee covers the administrative procedures involved in converting the visa status, ensuring a smooth transition for individuals seeking employment in Bahrain.

In addition to the visa fees, applicants should also consider the cost of obtaining the required medical examinations and laboratory tests, which are necessary for the visa application process. These examinations and tests typically include a blood test for syphilis, an HIV/VDRL test, a chest X-ray, a stool analysis, Hepatitis B and C tests, and colour vision analysis. The cost of these medical requirements can vary depending on the clinic or medical facility where they are conducted.

Furthermore, applicants should also be prepared to provide proof of their financial means to support themselves during their stay in Bahrain. This can be in the form of bank statements from the last three months, demonstrating a balance of at least USD 800. This requirement ensures that individuals have the necessary financial stability to reside and work in Bahrain.

Requirements: passport, medical exam, contract of employment, qualifications, sponsorship letter

To obtain a work visa for Bahrain, you must meet several requirements and complete a detailed application process. Here is a breakdown of the requirements:

Passport

A valid passport is a crucial requirement for obtaining a Bahrain work visa. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of the work visa issue. This requirement applies to all individuals seeking to enter Bahrain, including those from the United States.

Medical Exam

A medical examination is mandatory for obtaining a work permit in Bahrain. The exam must be conducted at an approved Wafid medical centre in the applicant's country of origin. The results of the medical examination must be submitted to the prospective employer, who will include it in the work permit application. The examination screens for several diseases, and a report indicating the applicant's fitness for duty will be issued.

Contract of Employment

A copy of the contract with the employee's name, birth date, and nationality is required for the work visa application. The contract outlines the terms of employment, including the employee's role, salary, and duration of employment. It is a crucial component of the application process and must be provided by the employer.

Qualifications

When applying for a Bahrain work visa, individuals must provide proof of academic or professional qualifications relevant to the position they are seeking. This requirement ensures that applicants possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and expertise for their specific roles.

Sponsorship Letter

A sponsorship letter, also known as a letter of employment, is required from the employer or a Bahraini national acting as the sponsor. This letter must include the employer's name/organisation, commercial registration number, employee's capacity, salary, contract duration, employee's name, birth date, and nationality. It serves as a formal indication of the offer of employment and is an essential component of the work visa application.

The time required to obtain a Bahrain work visa typically ranges from 3 to 10 business days for individuals already in Bahrain, and 18 to 25 business days for those located outside the country. The processing time can vary, and delays of up to 2 weeks are possible.

Application process: online, via the eVisa portal, or at the nearest Bahrain Embassy

To apply for a work visa for Bahrain, you can either apply online through the eVisa portal or at the nearest Bahrain Embassy. Here is a detailed description of the application process through both methods:

Online Application through the eVisa Portal:

The Bahrain eVisa is an online visa for short-term visits available to eligible international travellers. The application process is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps:

• Submit your application online by filling out the application form with your personal and travel details, such as nationality, passport number, name, date of birth, etc.
• Attach the required documents, including a scan of your passport, a copy of your return flight ticket, and proof of accommodation.
• Pay the application fee using a credit or debit card.
• You will receive a reference number to track your application status.
• The processing time is typically within 3 to 5 working days, and the approved eVisa will be emailed to you.
• Print out the approved eVisa and present it upon your arrival in Bahrain.

Application through Bahrain Embassy:

If you are not eligible for an online visa or wish to stay in Bahrain for an extended period, you will need to apply for a visa at the nearest Bahrain Embassy. Here is an overview of the application process:

• Complete and submit an online application form on the Bahrain Embassy website, providing your personal details, nationality, and purpose of visit.
• Attach electronic copies of your passport and a passport-size photo, along with any additional required documents.
• The consular staff of the Bahrain Embassy will guide you on the next steps and notify you of the outcome of your application.
• The processing time and fees may vary depending on the specific embassy and your nationality.

It is important to note that the requirements and processing times may differ based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Therefore, it is recommended to check the official websites and stay updated with the latest information and requirements.

Visa extensions: apply to the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs office

Bahrain Work Visa Processing Time

The Bahraini Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) processes and issues all visas before expats arrive in Bahrain. The processing time for a Bahrain work visa application is typically five business days, but delays can take up to two weeks.

If you need to extend your visa, you can apply to the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs office (NPRA) of the Ministry of Interior. You can usually extend your stay for another two weeks to a month, and you will have to pay an extension fee.

The NPRA offers a range of visa extension services, including:

• 7-day Visa Extension
• Extension of Residence Permits
• Extension of Visas for Artistic Bands
• Extension of Businessmen Visa
• Extension of a Return Visa for a Trip or Several Trips
• Extending a Multi-Entry Return Visa for 5 Years for Citizens of the UK, Ireland, Canada and the USA
• Extension of No-Objection Certificate - Visit Visa
• Extension of No Objection Certificate – Truck Drivers
• Extension of a 3-Month Visit eVisa for British and Irish Citizens
• Extension of a 3-Month Multiple Entry Visit eVisa
• Extension of a Visit eVisa for a Two-Week Stay (Single Entry)
• Extension of a GCC Visitor eVisa for Visitors from GCC Countries
• Extension of a Visit eVisa for a Family Visit
• Extension of a Multiple Entry Visit eVisa Valid for 5 Years
• Extension of a 3-Month Multiple Entry Visit eVisa for GCC Residents

Frequently asked questions