A draft law prohibiting the conversion of visit visas into work permits for foreigners is causing controversy in Bahrain’s Parliament. The proposed amendment to the Immigration and Residence Act of 1965 would prevent foreigners from obtaining work permits after entering the country on a visit visa. Currently, authorities have the discretion to grant residency permits to foreigners who can support themselves or intend to work in Bahrain. Ministerial Order No. 25 of 1976 already requires a No Objection Certificate for work-related visas and prohibits visit visas for job seekers.
The parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence, and National Security has opposed the proposed law, arguing that existing regulations are sufficient. Ministerial Order No. 16 of 2024 already restricts the conversion of visit visas into work visas unless the sponsor remains unchanged, resulting in a significant decrease in such conversions. The Ministry of Interior has warned that banning all visa conversions could create challenges for citizens, especially in hiring domestic workers, as it would require sending visitors back to their home countries and reapplying for work permits.
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) supports the current regulations on visa conversions, stating that they are already tightly controlled. Critics, however, raise concerns about potential conflicts with existing laws, as residency decisions are considered a state’s sovereign power and should not be interfered with legislatively. The government emphasizes strict penalties for those who violate labor laws, confirming that expat workers must have proper permits to work in Bahrain, with employers facing fines or criminal charges for non-compliance.
The National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) has supported the proposed law, stating that it does not violate foreign nationals’ rights under international conventions. However, the NIHR has cautioned that any changes to the draft law’s wording could impact its compliance with human rights standards and may require further review. The debate in Parliament is set to continue as lawmakers consider the implications of the proposed amendment and its potential impact on foreign workers and citizens in Bahrain.
Ultimately, the decision to prohibit the conversion of visit visas into work permits for foreigners is a complex issue that raises questions about the balance between controlling immigration and protecting the rights of foreign workers. While the government aims to prevent illegal employment and ensure that all workers have the necessary permits, critics argue that the proposed law could create unnecessary financial burdens for citizens and undermine flexibility in managing public interest. As the debate unfolds in Parliament, it remains to be seen how lawmakers will address these concerns and whether the proposed amendment will be approved or further revised.
