The Bahrain Parliament recently approved a significant amendment to the national ID card law, directly impacting the expat ID card system and the country’s large expatriate workforce. The change links the validity of ID cards issued to non-Bahrainis to the length of their legal residency, a move intended to strengthen labor market regulations and address financial discrepancies. This decision came despite internal committee reservations and sparked debate regarding implementation and associated costs.
New Regulations for Expat ID Card Validity in Bahrain
Yesterday’s parliamentary session saw the approval of an amendment to Article 3 of Law No. 46 of 2006 concerning ID cards. The core change stipulates that an expat ID card will, “in all cases,” be valid only for the duration of the holder’s legal residency in Bahrain. Currently, ID cards can be issued for up to five years, potentially exceeding the length of an individual’s work permit or residency visa. This discrepancy, according to proponents of the amendment, created a loophole that needed to be addressed.
Addressing Legal Loopholes and Strengthening Enforcement
MP Jalal Kadhem was a key advocate for the change, arguing it was necessary to close a “legal gap.” He highlighted the situation where an expatriate might possess a five-year ID card while their residency is limited to two years, potentially allowing them to operate within the system even after their legal right to reside has expired.
The aim is to bolster labour market discipline and prevent the misuse of identification documents. By aligning ID card validity with residency permits, authorities hope to streamline verification processes and reduce opportunities for illegal employment. This also ties into broader efforts to regulate the Bahrain labor market and ensure compliance with immigration laws.
Concerns Raised Regarding Implementation and Costs
While the bill passed, it wasn’t without its critics. Second Deputy Speaker Ahmed Qarata, though supporting the overall goal, voiced concerns about the lack of clarity surrounding which government agency would be responsible for deactivating the expat ID card upon the expiration of residency. He noted conflicting responses from the Central Bank of Bahrain, the Information and eGovernment Authority, and the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), suggesting a need for better coordination.
Furthermore, some MPs questioned whether the amendment would lead to increased operational costs for the government. Concerns were raised about the potential burden of frequently issuing new ID cards. However, Qarata countered this argument, suggesting that the cost of issuing a card for a month versus a year would likely be minimal.
The Financial Perspective: Revenue and Operating Costs
MP Kadhem presented a financial justification for the amendment, estimating that the current system results in a loss of approximately BD8.5 million annually, based on a foreign resident population of around 850,000. He also pointed out that the government currently absorbs a loss of BD4 per card, charging a fee of BD10 while the actual operating cost is BD14.
Justice Minister Nawaf Al Maawda addressed these financial concerns, stating that ID card fees are “always under review” and would be reassessed to ensure they cover the true cost of issuance. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between possessing an ID card and maintaining a valid residency permit, warning of potential consequences for those employing individuals with expired visas. He also noted that employers are already held accountable through LMRA procedures.
Implications for Employers and Expats
The amendment places a greater onus on employers to verify the validity of their employees’ residency permits. Dealing with individuals whose residency has expired will carry repercussions, reinforcing the importance of due diligence in hiring and employment practices. This is a crucial aspect of maintaining a compliant Bahrain workforce.
For expatriates, the change means more frequent renewals of their ID cards, tied directly to the renewal of their residency permits. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s presented as a measure to enhance security and prevent the misuse of identification. The government’s intention is to create a more transparent and regulated system for all residents.
Future Outlook and Ongoing Discussions
The passing of this amendment marks a significant step towards tightening regulations surrounding expatriate identification in Bahrain. However, the concerns raised during the parliamentary debate highlight the need for clear guidelines and efficient implementation. The government will need to address the questions regarding agency responsibility and ensure a smooth transition to the new system.
Further discussion is expected regarding the optimal fee structure for expat ID cards to ensure cost recovery and prevent financial burdens on either the government or residents. Ultimately, the success of this amendment will depend on effective collaboration between relevant government bodies and clear communication with both employers and the expatriate community.