LMRA to launch flexible permit today

Manama : Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) will launch the ‘flexible work permit’ in a ceremony at its Sitra branch today.

Bahrain without a sponsor. He/she can work in any company, part time or full time. “You can work on contract basis with anyone you want based on your occupation. You may travel and come back - you will have a renewable two year residency and re-entry visa,” it stated.

Flexible permits are of two types LMRA explained, one is the ‘flexi permit’ and the second is the ‘flexi hospitality permit’. 

“Flexi permit enables the holder to work in any non-specialised jobs and is not allowed to work in restaurants, saloons, and hotels. ‘Flexi hospitality permit’ enables the holder to work in any non-specialized jobs and is allowed to work in restaurant, saloons, and hotels,” LMRA stated. To apply, the applicant must have more than 6 months validity on his/her passport. 

“Make sure you have your passport in your possession. Make sure your passport is valid for more than six months. Use your own mobile number and send SMS of your CPR details to 33150150,” the LMRA said. After sending the SMS, the applicant will receive a date of appointment.  Workers wanting to benefit from the plan will have to pay a total fee of BD449. This includes a work permit for two years, health care fees of BD144 for two years, a onetime BD90 deposit to ensure a travel ticket, which can be refunded in case the worker wishes to return home, and a one time BD15 discounted fee to extend the residency period. Workers are also required to pay a monthly fee of BD30. For identification purposes, beneficiaries will be granted a ‘Blue Card’, which will be renewed every six months, free of charge.

Explaining the rules and regulations under the Flexible permit plan, LMRA stated. “You should pay your monthly fees to avoid your permit being cancelled. You should have your valid Blue Card. You should not violate the Law and regulations of the Kingdom. Do not work in restaurants, hotels, and saloons unless you are a Hospitality Flexi permit holder”.

The LMRA has also informed that clearance agents or middlemen cannot be used to obtain the permit. For further information about the permit contact LMRA hotline 17103103.