BD500 fee for firms missing Bahrainisation targets

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Companies that fail to meet Bahrainisation targets may be charged BD500 for each expatriate work permit, the Ministry of Labour said.

In a written reply to Shura Council member Dr Ebtisam Al Dallal, the ministry said the 2023–2026 national labour market plan prioritises hiring Bahrainis while allowing expatriate recruitment where employers demonstrate genuine need.

Prepared under Decree-Law No. 21 of 2021, the plan was approved by the Cabinet on 26 June 2023 and published in the Official Gazette on 3 July 2023.

The ministry said the strategy focuses on creating better jobs for Bahrainis, aligning education with labour market needs, strengthening private sector partnerships, and supporting investment while protecting workers’ rights.

Bahrainisation rules apply across all sectors, with some reaching 50 per cent localisation. Compliance is monitored automatically through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority’s electronic systems.

To encourage hiring Bahrainis, wage support schemes cover up to 70% in the first year, 50% in the second and 30% in the third, with support ceilings raised to BD800 for graduates, BD600 for diploma holders and BD450 for secondary-level workers.

The ministry also said fees on expatriate labour have been increased to narrow the cost gap with local hires. Around 80% of these fees go to Tamkeen, which funds wage support and business development programmes. Under Cabinet Resolution No. 79 of 2025, work permit fees will rise gradually until 2029, while monthly levies will increase annually to BD30 per worker, excluding domestic workers.