Bahrain Allows Foreign Workers Temporary Employer Switches

The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) of Bahrain has implemented a regulatory reform that allows foreign workers to temporarily work for a different employer for up to 90 days. This arrangement does not require the transfer of existing work permits and is designed to help businesses meet short-term staffing needs using expatriates already residing in the country, reducing the reliance on new international recruitment.

To utilize this system, the LMRA requires written consent from the employee, agreement between both employers, and formal approval through the Expat Management System. The reform also allows employers to deploy foreign workers to other establishments within the same corporate group, provided they adhere to Bahrainisation requirements.

LMRA Chief Executive Nibras Talib stated the move balances business growth with the priority of employing Bahraini citizens. Bahrain Chamber Chairman Nabeel Kanoo described the change as a positive step for the private sector, noting that the flexibility helps companies respond to operational requirements.