Bahrain Expands Foreign Worker Usage Rules

• Bahrain introduced new rules allowing authorized foreign workers to be assigned to affiliated entities and, under certain conditions, to other employers for up to three months.  

Foreign Worker Usage Rules 

The Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) announced amendments to foreign work permit regulations through Resolution No. 2 of 2026. The changes allow employers to use authorized foreign workers across affiliated establishments and, with LMRA approval, temporarily assign them to another employer for a limited period.  

According to the LMRA, the amendments are intended to support labor market needs, strengthen regulatory oversight and reduce unauthorized labor practices.  

Assignments Within Affiliated Companies 

An employer may assign a foreign worker to another establishment that it owns or to an entity within the same corporate group, provided the receiving entity meets the applicable requirements, including Bahrainization obligations.  

Temporary Assignments to Another Employer 

Following LMRA approval, a foreign worker may work for another employer for up to three months if: 

• The worker provides written consent; 
• Both employers approve the arrangement; and 
• Applicable Bahrainization requirements are met.  

The resolution also provides that additional fees may apply in certain cases where the receiving employer is subject to a lower Bahrainization percentage.  

Employer Obligations 

The amendments establish joint responsibility between the original and receiving employers for obligations arising during the assignment period. The LMRA will register and notify the parties of the approved arrangement through its systems.  

Government Rationale 

The LMRA stated that the changes are designed to: 

• Increase flexibility for employers; 
• Support economic activity and business operations; 
• Maintain Bahrainization requirements; 
• Strengthen labor market monitoring; and 
• Reduce irregular employment practices.  

The authority also emphasized that the amendments apply only to foreign workers already authorized to work in Bahrain and do not create a new recruitment pathway from outside the country.

Don’t Miss an Update

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first.

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs.