Bahrain Work Visa 2025: Complete Guide to Application & Requirements

Bahrain Work Visa 2025. Looking to work in Bahrain in 2025? A Bahrain work visa is essential for all international employees aiming to live and work in the Kingdom. Sponsored by a local employer and processed through the Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), this visa ensures legal employment and residency. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all requirements, steps, visa types, and key considerations to secure your work permit efficiently.

Key Steps to Obtain a Bahrain Work Visa

Bahrain has streamlined the work visa process via the LMRA Expat Management System (EMS). Employers play a central role in sponsoring applications, but understanding the steps can help you prepare and avoid delays.

Employer Sponsorship

ابھی اپلائی کرنے کے لیے واٹس ایپ پر رابطہ کریں

Your prospective Bahrain employer must sponsor your application. This involves providing a formal letter of employment, commercial registration number, and a copy of your employment contract. The employer ensures all documents are accurate before submitting to LMRA.

LMRA Portal Application

The LMRA’s Expat Management System (EMS) allows employers to submit visa applications digitally. Employers select the appropriate visa type, enter employee details, and upload required documents.

Document Submission

Key documents for submission include:

Letter of employment from the employer
Commercial registration number of the company
Employee’s passport copy
Job contract with employee role and salary details

Tip: Ensure all documents are original and notarized if required for smoother processing.

Fee Payment

Visa and administrative fees must be paid by the employer via the LMRA portal or designated banks. Fees vary depending on the visa type and duration.

NPRA Review

After submission and fee payment, the Nationality, Passport, and Residence Affairs (NPRA) office scrutinizes the application to ensure compliance with Bahraini labor laws.

Work Permit Issuance

Once approved, the work permit is issued, enabling the employee to travel to Bahrain and obtain a work card upon arrival.

Important Considerations for Applicants

When applying for a Bahrain work visa, you should be aware of the following:

Age Requirement

Applicants must be between 20 and 65 years old to be eligible for a work visa or renewal.

Validity and Residency

Work visas are typically valid for 1–2 years, granting residency status along with employment authorization.

Work Card

Upon arrival, you will receive a work card, which serves as your legal identification in Bahrain and must be carried at all times.

Company Quota

Visa sponsorship limits depend on company size and adherence to foreign worker quotas set by the Bahraini government.

Types of Visas in Bahrain

Every nationality requires a visa to enter Bahrain, except GCC nationals (Kuwait, Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar). The main types include:

Visa Type	Purpose	Duration	Employment Allowed	Sponsorship Required
Bahrain Electronic Visa	Tourism/Business	14–90 days	No	No
Embassy/Consular Visa	Travel	1 month	No	Bahraini sponsor/agent
Work Visa	Employment	1–2 years	Yes	Employer
Family Visa	Residency for dependents	Same as employee visa	No	Employee/worker

Requirements for Bahrain Work Visa 2025

To ensure a smooth application, applicants and employers must fulfill the following:

Employer-Provided Documents

Letter of employment including company name and commercial registration number
Job contract stating salary, role, duration
Proof of company compliance with quotas

Employee Documents

Completed LMRA visa application form
Valid passport (with minimum 6 months validity)
Passport-size photo
Copy of employment contract
Medical health certificate from authorized clinic
Academic/professional qualification certificates

Tip: Apostille international documents if required for family visa applications.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Bahrain’s LMRA portal ensures most work visa applications are processed within 5 business days, though delays can extend up to two weeks.

Step 1: Employer Submits Application

The employer enters employee details and uploads supporting documents via EMS.

Step 2: Fee Payment

Payment of administrative and advertisement fees is made through the LMRA portal or partner banks.

Step 3: NPRA Verification

The NPRA reviews application details, validates documents, and ensures compliance with labor regulations.

Step 4: Issuance of Work Permit

Upon approval, the employee receives a work permit, allowing travel to Bahrain.

Step 5: Arrival & Work Card Collection

After arriving in Bahrain, employees collect their work card, completing the legal employment registration.

How to Check Your Bahrain Work Visa Status: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are planning to work in Bahrain or have already applied for a work visa, you can check your visa status online to ensure everything is in order. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official Bahrain eVisa Portal

Go to the Bahrain eVisa official website.

Step 2: Select Work Visa Status Check

On the homepage, look for the “Visa Status Check” option.
Click on “Work Visa” to proceed.

Step 3: Enter Required Information

Provide your application reference number or passport number.
Enter your date of birth as per your passport.

Step 4: Submit the Form

Click the “Check Status” or “Submit” button.
Wait for the portal to display your visa status.

Step 5: Review Your Visa Status

The system will show if your work visa is Approved, Pending, or Rejected.
Save a PDF copy or take a screenshot for your records.

Step 6: Contact Authorities if Needed

If your visa is pending or rejected, contact the Bahrain Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) via their helpline or email for clarification.
Ensure all required documents are correct and submitted to avoid delays.

Tip: Always check your visa status regularly to avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth entry into Bahrain.

Family and Dependent Visas

Employees may sponsor immediate family members using a family visa, valid for the duration of the work visa.

Required Documents

Employee’s work permit
Apostilled birth and marriage certificates
Passport copies of family members
Health and educational certificates (if required)

Note: Family members cannot work in Bahrain unless they acquire a separate work visa.

Tips for a Smooth Bahrain Work Visa Process

Verify Employer Credentials – Ensure the sponsoring company is registered with LMRA.
Prepare Accurate Documents – Double-check name spelling, passport numbers, and contract details.
Follow Quota Rules – Employers must adhere to foreign worker quotas to avoid application rejection.
Track Application Online – Use the LMRA EMS portal for status updates.
Medical Clearance – Get health checks done at authorized clinics to prevent delays.

FAQs

Q1: Can I apply for a work visa on my own?
A1: No, a Bahrain work visa requires employer sponsorship. Independent applications are not allowed.

Q2: How long does the work visa take to process?
A2: Typically 5 business days, but can extend up to 2 weeks depending on document verification.

Q3: Do I need a family visa for my spouse?
A3: Yes, immediate family members require a family/residence visa, which is separate from the employee work visa.

Q4: Can GCC nationals work in Bahrain without a visa?
A4: Yes, GCC citizens can enter and work without requiring a separate work visa.

Q5: What is the validity of a Bahrain work visa?
A5: Usually 1–2 years, with the possibility of renewal based on company sponsorship and compliance with LMRA regulations.

Conclusion

Securing a Bahrain work visa in 2025 is straightforward when you understand the steps, requirements, and employer responsibilities. By following LMRA guidelines and preparing accurate documents, international employees can enjoy hassle-free employment and residency in Bahrain.