Switching Visas: Family To Work In Bahrain

Bahrain offers a range of visa options for those looking to join their family or work in the country. The process of changing from a family visa to a work visa in Bahrain involves understanding the eligibility criteria, necessary documentation, and application process for a work visa. This guide will provide an overview of the steps involved in making this transition, ensuring a smooth journey towards working and living in Bahrain.

Eligibility requirements for a Bahrain work visa

To be eligible for a Bahrain work visa, you must meet several requirements. Here are the key eligibility criteria:

Sponsorship

Most work visas require sponsorship by a Bahraini employer or a Bahraini national. This sponsorship is essential for obtaining your work permit and beginning your professional journey in Bahrain.

Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended entry date to Bahrain. This requirement is crucial and must be met by all applicants.

Employment Confirmation

You must provide confirmation of employment or a job offer in the form of an employment contract from a reputable Bahraini employer. This demonstrates your intention to work in the country and is a key requirement for the visa.

Application Form and Supporting Documents

You will need to complete a visa application form and provide supporting documents, including a recent passport-sized photograph, a copy of your employment contract, a health report from an authorised clinic, and proof of payment of the BHD 100 employment visa fee. These documents are essential to finalising your work permit application.

Minimum Salary Requirement

To sponsor your family's visas, you must meet a minimum monthly salary requirement of at least BHD 400. This criterion is essential if you plan to bring your family to Bahrain.

Validity and Renewal

Understanding the validity and renewal process of your work visa is crucial. Work permits typically range from one to two years, and you must plan for renewal well in advance to maintain your legal status in Bahrain. Early preparation is essential, as delays in processing may occur.

How to apply for a Bahrain work visa

If you're considering a career move to Bahrain, you'll need to obtain a work visa, also known as an employment visa or work permit. This document grants foreign nationals permission to work and live in the country. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Bahrain work visa:

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Before starting your visa application process, it's crucial to understand the essential requirements. The Bahrain Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) processes and issues all visas. In most cases, eligibility requires sponsorship by a Bahraini employer or a Bahraini national. Other requirements include:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from your intended entry date.
• A confirmed job offer or employment contract from a reputable Bahraini employer.
• A completed visa application form.
• A recent passport-sized photograph.
• A health report from an authorized clinic.
• Proof of payment of the BHD 100 employment visa fee.

Step 2: Employer Initiates the Process

Your prospective employer in Bahrain will be responsible for applying for your work visa on your behalf. They will use Bahrain's efficient online application system to initiate the process. Your employer will require specific supporting documents from you to finalize the application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

To complete the work visa application process, you will need to provide your employer with the following documents:

• Your valid passport.
• A copy of your employment contract.
• Any other documents requested by your employer or the LMRA.

Step 4: Application Submission

Once your employer has gathered all the necessary documents, they will submit the application through the online system. The LMRA typically processes work visa applications within five business days, but there may be delays of up to two weeks. The processing time can vary based on factors such as your nationality and the volume of applications.

Step 5: Track Your Application Status

You can track the status of your application by logging into the LMRA's online system or contacting their support centre. Staying informed about your application status is essential to ensure a smooth process.

Step 6: Prepare for Renewal

Understanding the validity and renewal process of your work visa is crucial. Work visas in Bahrain are typically valid for one to two years, and you should plan for renewal well in advance to avoid any legal complications. Early preparation of at least a few months before your visa expires is recommended. The renewal process will involve your employer initiating the application through the LMRA again, providing updated documents, and meeting any other requirements.

Additional Considerations

• Medical Examinations and Fees: You may need to undergo medical examinations and security clearances as part of the initial or renewal process. There may also be associated fees for extending your work visa.
• Grace Period: Bahrain typically provides a grace period of a few weeks after the visa expiration date to complete the renewal process without penalties. However, it's best not to rely on this grace period and renew your visa well before it expires.
• Family Visa: If you plan to bring your family to Bahrain, you can request a family visa from your employer after obtaining your work visa. They will secure residence permits for your dependents through the LMRA.

Required documents for a Bahrain work visa

To obtain a Bahrain work visa, you must have a confirmed job offer or employment contract from a reputable Bahraini employer. The process is typically initiated by your new employer, who will apply for the visa on your behalf. However, you are responsible for providing them with the necessary supporting documents. Here is a list of documents you will need to submit:

• A completed visa application form
• Your valid passport, with a minimum validity of six months from your intended entry date
• A recent passport-sized photograph
• A copy of your employment contract (in English and Arabic)
• A health report from an authorized clinic
• Proof of payment of the BHD 100 employment visa fee
• A copy of your visit visa and entry stamp on your passport (if you are already in Bahrain on a visit visa)

The Bahraini Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) processes and issues all visas. The standard processing time for a Bahrain work visa is around five business days, but delays can occur, and it may take up to two weeks. It is important to note that the processing time can vary depending on factors such as your nationality, the type of visa, and the volume of applications.

In addition to the documents mentioned above, you may also need to provide proof of your previous visit to Bahrain if you are currently in the country on a visit visa. This can be done by attaching a copy of your visit visa and entry stamp on your passport when submitting your work visa application. There is also an additional fee of BHD 60 for transferring from a visit visa to an employment visa.

Visa validity and renewal process

The validity of your Bahrain Work Visa is typically between one and two years, depending on the type of visa and your employment contract. The expiration date will be clearly indicated on your visa, and it is essential to be aware of this date to plan for renewal.

To renew your visa, you must continue to meet the eligibility criteria, including having a valid employment contract with a Bahraini employer. The renewal process is usually initiated by your employer through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). They will need to provide updated documents and information about your continued employment.

It is recommended to start the renewal process a few months before your current visa expires to ensure a smooth transition. Delays in processing can occur, so early preparation is key. The specific documents required for renewal may vary depending on your situation, but they often include an updated employment contract, proof of ongoing employment, and any other documents requested by the LMRA.

You and your family members may need to undergo medical examinations and security clearances as part of the renewal process. There may also be renewal fees associated with extending your work visa, so be sure to budget for these additional costs.

Stay informed about your visa status, as maintaining your legal status in Bahrain is crucial. Bahrain usually provides a grace period of a few weeks after the visa expiration date to complete the renewal process without penalties. However, it is best not to rely on this grace period and renew your visa well in advance.

Switching from a Family Visa to a Work Visa

Spouses and adult children on a family visa are not permitted to work in Bahrain unless they change their visa status from a family visa to a work permit. If a spouse wishes to work while remaining a dependent on their family visa, they can apply for a Work Approval for Dependants permit. If approved, they will be granted a work permit while retaining their family permit.

Bringing your family to Bahrain

If you're considering a career move to Bahrain, you may want to bring your family with you. Bahrain offers a pathway for your family to join you through the Family Joining Visa, allowing you to build a new life together in this vibrant nation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of bringing your family to Bahrain:

Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Criteria

Before initiating the process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for sponsoring your family's visas. Firstly, you must hold a valid Bahrain Work Visa. Additionally, to qualify for family sponsorship, your monthly salary should be at least BHD 400.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

To apply for your family's visas, you'll need to submit the following supporting documents:

• Copies of your family members' passports.
• Marriage certificate (translated into Arabic or English, if applicable).
• Birth certificates for children (translated into Arabic or English).
• Latest paid electricity bill or lease agreement as proof of accommodation.
• No objection letter from the other parent, if applicable.
• Divorce certificate and custody documents, if applicable.
• Death certificate of the other parent, if applicable.

Step 3: Initiate the Application Process

You can request a family visa from your employer in Bahrain. They will initiate the application process for residence permits for your dependents through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). Your employer can use the LMRA Expatriate Management System (EMS) to start the process.

Step 4: Medical Examinations and Security Clearances

Your family members may be required to undergo medical examinations at approved clinics or hospitals to ensure they meet the health requirements. Additionally, the Bahraini authorities may conduct security clearances as part of the visa application process.

Step 5: Visa Approval and Payment

Once your family members' visas are approved, they will receive their Bahrain Family Joining Visas. At this stage, you will need to pay the visa fees. The standard fee for a new application and renewal is BHD 90. However, additional services such as multiple entry permissions may incur extra costs.

Step 6: Understanding Validity and Renewal

It's important to understand the validity of your family's visas and plan for renewals to maintain their legal status in Bahrain. The visas are typically valid for one to two years, and you should start the renewal process a few months in advance to avoid any complications. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, and certain documents, such as updated employment contracts and proof of ongoing employment, may be required.

Frequently asked questions