Bahrain: Health Insurance Now Required for Dependents Applying for New Residence Permits

The Labour Market Regulatory Authority requires dependents applying for a new residence permit in Bahrain to hold valid health insurance coverage. Previously, health insurance coverage was not a mandatory requirement for dependents applying for a residence permit, and it was required for main applicants only. The health insurance policy must be issued by a licensed insurance provider in Bahrain and must remain valid for the full duration of the residence permit. For example, a dependent applying for a one-year residence permit must hold health insurance coverage valid for at least one year. There is currently no guidance or updates issued regarding whether this requirement also applies to renewals. Employers should account for additional costs and ensure that employees sponsoring dependents obtain compliant health insurance coverage for each dependent for the full duration of the residence permit. 

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