Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
Bahrain suspended the Flexible Work Permit scheme for all foreign national applicants on 18 October 2022
Overview
The government of Bahrain suspended the Flexible Work Permit scheme for all foreign nationals on 18 October 2022. The suspension of the permit comes as a result of labor reforms currently taking place throughout the country.
What are the Changes?
The government of Bahrain suspended the Flexible Work Permit scheme on 18 October 2022. The Flexible Work Permit, known as the Flexi-Permit, was originally introduced in 2017 to allow foreign nationals to enter the country for work purposes without obtaining sponsorship from an employer.
With the suspension of this permit scheme, the government indicates it intends to dedicate additional efforts to streamlining the immigration process for foreign nationals and introducing new protections for employers in Bahrain.
According to the government announcement, the Flexible Work Permit currently faces abuse by foreign nationals remaining in the country after the permit’s expiration due to it not being tied to employer sponsorship.
Looking Ahead
Continue to check the government of Bahrain’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.
