Bahrain: Sponsor Now Required to Convert Visit Visas to Work or Dependent Residence Visas

The Ministry of Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs announced that a sponsor is now required for an individual to convert their visit visa to a work or dependent residence visa. The conversion fee is BD 250 (approximately USD 665) and the sponsor for the work or dependent residence visa must be the same as the sponsor of the visit visa. Previously, individuals could convert their visit visa without a sponsor for a fee of BHD 60 (approximately USD 160). The increase in fees and additional requirement to obtain a sponsor for the work or dependent residence visa aligns with the government’s initiative to encourage employers to hire from the local population. Additionally, this new requirement should allow for further oversight and transparency by the government, reducing potential exploitation of workers.