Effective immediately, employers that do not or cannot comply with the relevant Bahrainization rate can now apply for work permits for foreign nationals, provided they pay an additional fee of BHD 300 during the application process.
According to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority’s announcement, this new option is available to employers seeking initial work permits and sponsorship transfers. In April 2017, this option is also expected to become available for employers that do not meet Bahranization rates but that seek to renew work permits.
What This Means for Employers
Although Fragomen recommends that employers comply with the applicable Bahrainization rates, employers that cannot comply may choose to obtain work permits for foreign nationals by paying the additional government fee.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
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