Manama: The Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) has asked all expatriate workers in Bahrain to ensure their documents are legal. Workers were also reminded to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the country, including the LMRAs and residency laws.
A migrant worker must obtain an official work permit from an employer before arriving in the country. It is illegal for people on a visit visa to work. Violation of the law can result in fines and deportation.
Expatriate workers must complete all legal procedures related to work permits, including providing biometric data within one month of first entering the country. Expatriates with a working permit must work in the locations indicated on the permit or in other branches of the same employer engaged in the same activity.
All fees imposed on the employee, including health insurance costs, must be borne by the employer. The worker may not offer money or benefits to the employer for issuing or renewing the work permit.
In case of job change, the LMRA also directed that the employee cease working under the current employer until the job change process is completed and a new work permit is obtained under the new employer.
LMRA reiterated its commitment to protect workers’ rights. The authorities may intervene in cases of forced labor by the employer, non-payment of wages, and human trafficking. The concerned centers should be contacted for assistance and guidance in these matters.
Expatriate workers can clear their doubts by contacting the 24-hour hotline number 995 at the Expatriate Workers Protection and Support Center.