Bahrain has announced the implementation of stricter
regulations for converting visit visas to work or dependent visas, with a
significant fee increase, to prioritize local employment and reduce visa
exploitation.
The action, which attempts to simplify the labour market, is by orders from higher-ranking officials. The updated cost, which was BD60, has increased significantly to BD250 for the conversion of visit visas with a sponsor. This is only applicable if the sponsor on the visa is the same, though.
Following orders from Interior Minister General
Shaikh Rashid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, the Bahraini government tightened
regulations about the transfer of visas. The policies were created in
coordination with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) to lower unemployment rates and make Bahrainis the go-to candidates for
jobs. These adjustments counteract the abuse of visitation visas and further
the National Labor Market Strategy. According to Shaikh
Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, these adjustments are part of larger initiatives to increase
work possibilities and lower unemployment.
The new visa transfer regulations that affect Bahraini
workers are a topic of dispute. Some view them as victories, while others claim
they legalize visa abuse. While the effectiveness of tourism is yet unknown,
some advocate for a total ban. Between June 2023 and 2019, 85,246
foreign nationals changed their visa status, contributing to the recent spike
in the conversion of visas into work permits. There has already been a 37%
decrease in these arrivals due to the new rules, which need return
tickets and appropriate entry cash.
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