MANAMA (Kashmir English): Bahrain has introduced new rules allowing foreign workers to take temporary jobs with another employer for up to 90 days without transferring their existing work permits.
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) announced the reform to give businesses greater flexibility in managing staffing requirements while protecting workers’ rights.
Under the new rules, eligible expatriates can accept short-term assignments with another company, provided they hold a valid work permit throughout the arrangement. Both the worker’s current employer and the company offering the temporary job must approve the assignment, while the worker must also provide written consent.
Employers must submit applications through the LMRA’s Expat Management System. Workers can begin their temporary assignments only after the authority approves and officially records the arrangement.
LMRA Chief Executive Nibras Talib said the reform would help businesses address short-term staffing needs while safeguarding workers’ rights. He also highlighted the importance of protecting employment opportunities for Bahraini citizens.
Bahrain Chamber Chairman Nabeel Kanoo welcomed the decision, saying it would enable companies to respond more effectively to temporary business demands and make better use of workers already residing in the country.
The new arrangement could also reduce businesses’ reliance on lengthy overseas recruitment procedures while giving expatriates opportunities to gain experience with other employers.
However, the rules do not permit foreign workers to change employers freely. Every temporary assignment requires the worker’s consent, approval from both employers and authorisation from the LMRA. Any extension beyond the permitted 90-day period would require further legal authorisation.
