Bahrain: Foreign Workers Now Allowed to Work for Other Employers Temporarily

Foreign workers can now temporarily work for another employer in Bahrain for up to 90 days; previously, such arrangements were not possible. The employee must have a work permit for the entirety of the arrangement. Additionally, if the target Bahrainisation rate of the other employer’s entity is lower than that of the current employer’s entity, the other employer must pay an additional fee. The assessment is based on the Bahrainisation rates of the two entities, rather than the specific activity the employee will perform. A BHD 5 administrative fee also applies to the other employer's application. The arrangement must be submitted and managed through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority Expat Management System. This reform creates greater flexibility in the Bahraini labor market, in particular by allowing employers to engage foreign talent on a short-term basis even if they have not sponsored them.  

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.