If you’re planning to work in Bahrain in 2025, you’ll need a Bahrain work visa before starting your job. This visa is mandatory for all foreign employees and is issued through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). It allows you to live and work legally in the Kingdom while ensuring your employer complies with local labor laws.
This simple guide explains how to apply for a Bahrain work visa, what documents you’ll need, and what to expect during the process.
What Is a Bahrain Work Visa?
A Bahrain work visa is a government permit that allows non-Bahraini citizens to work in the country. It is sponsored by your employer and linked directly to your job. Once approved, it also serves as your residency visa, meaning you can live in Bahrain for the duration of your employment.
Only Bahraini employers or companies registered with the LMRA can sponsor a foreign worker. You cannot apply for a work visa on your own.
Key Requirements for a Bahrain Work Visa
To qualify for a work visa in Bahrain, both the employer and the employee must meet specific requirements.
Employer Documents:
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A valid commercial registration (CR) number
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Employment offer letter with job title and salary
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Signed job contract with employee details
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Proof of compliance with LMRA labor quotas
Employee Documents:
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Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
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Recent passport-size photo
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Signed employment contract
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Medical fitness certificate from an approved clinic
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Educational or professional certificates, if required
Tip: All foreign documents should be attested or apostilled before submission to avoid delays.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Bahrain has made the visa process faster and easier through the LMRA’s Expat Management System (EMS). Here’s how it works:
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Employer Submits Application:
Your employer fills out the online application form on the LMRA portal and uploads all necessary documents. -
Payment of Fees:
Visa and processing fees are paid by the employer through the LMRA system or approved banks. -
Government Review:
The LMRA and the Nationality, Passport & Residence Affairs (NPRA) office review your application to ensure all information is accurate. -
Approval and Work Permit Issuance:
Once approved, the LMRA issues a work permit, which you’ll need to show when entering Bahrain. -
Arrival and Work Card Collection:
After arriving in Bahrain, you’ll receive your work card, which acts as your legal ID and proof of employment. Always keep it with you.
Most applications are processed within 5–10 business days, although it may take longer if additional checks are required.
Visa Validity and Renewal
Bahrain work visas are usually valid for one to two years, depending on your contract and employer’s sponsorship. Your employer can renew your visa before it expires if you continue working in the country.
Applicants must generally be between 20 and 65 years old to be eligible for a work visa.
Family and Dependent Visas
If you hold a valid work visa, you can sponsor your immediate family members (spouse and children) to live with you in Bahrain.
Documents required for family visas:
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Your valid work permit and CPR card
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Marriage and birth certificates (attested)
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Passports of family members
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Proof of accommodation and sufficient income
However, family members cannot work in Bahrain unless they apply for a separate work visa through their own employer.
How to Check Your Visa Status Online
You can track your visa application easily:
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Visit the official LMRA or Bahrain eVisa portal.
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Select “Work Visa Status Check.”
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Enter your passport number or application reference number.
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Submit to view your visa’s status (Approved, Pending, or Rejected).
Always save or print a copy of your visa approval for your travel records.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Process
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Verify your employer’s LMRA registration before accepting an offer.
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Double-check your documents for accuracy, especially passport details and name spellings.
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Complete medical tests early to prevent application delays.
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Keep digital copies of all documents and approvals for easy access.
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Check visa status regularly to stay updated.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Bahrain work visa in 2025 is a straightforward process if your employer is properly registered and all your documents are in order. With the LMRA’s efficient online system, most applications are processed quickly, allowing you to start your new job in Bahrain with confidence.
Whether you’re moving for better career opportunities or a fresh start in the Gulf, Bahrain offers a safe, modern, and welcoming environment for expatriates from around the world.