Work Permit, Residency & the Flexi Permit in Bahrain (2026)
By HAQQ Research · · 7 min read · mena
Bahrain's LMRA work permit and residence: sponsor transfer after one year, the self-sponsorship Flexi Permit, family-sponsorship income, and the passport ban.
In Bahrain, the LMRA issues the work permit (commonly 2 years) which carries the right to reside; the employer sponsors it. A worker can transfer to a new employer without the current one's consent after 12 months' service, with proof the employer received the resignation. The Flexi Permit lets an eligible worker live and work without an employer-sponsor. Withholding a passport is illegal; dependent residence needs ~BHD 400/month income.
FAQ
When can I change employer in Bahrain?
Without the current employer's consent after 12 months of service, with proof the employer received your resignation and the new employer filing the transfer at least one month before the transfer date.
What is the Bahrain Flexi Permit?
A renewable 2-year self-sponsorship permit that lets an eligible worker (whose work permit was terminated or expired) live and work without an employer-sponsor, for multiple employers, against monthly fees.
What income is required to sponsor dependents in Bahrain?
A net monthly income of at least BHD 400 to sponsor a spouse and unmarried children under 24, verified through the Social Insurance Organization.
← All HAQQ articles
This page is best viewed with JavaScript enabled.
