EXPATRIATES on flexi visas and those without a valid work permit will have to register at specialised centres to be set up in Bahrain.
Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) chief executive Nouf Abdulrahman Jamsheer yesterday said that applications will not be accepted from runaways and those who entered the country on a visit visa.
“Only those residing in Bahrain and with no criminal records are eligible to register,” she added.
The move is part of a proposed set of labour reforms announced by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to replace the flexi permit.
The GDN had reported that the new measures were announced by HRH Prince Salman during his visit to the Bahrain Chamber on Wednesday.
“The reforms have been introduced to safeguard the rights of employers, workers and the kingdom’s business community,” Ms Jamsheer said.
“Work permits will be linked to vocational and occupational standards to support a more vibrant labour market.
“Registered workers will not be permitted to obtain a commercial registration, or work in specialised professions except after obtaining a licence to practise the profession or its equivalent from the relevant authorities.
“They will also be required to pay for health fees and exit expenses.
“Inspections will be stepped up to identify employers and workers engaging in illegal activity.”
Ms Jamsheer said new labour registration centres and an online registration section in the Sijilat portal will be set up, in co-ordination with the Industry and Commerce Ministry and the private sector, to facilitate the process.
The centres will maintain an up-to-date list of data that includes workers’ information, their places of residence, and bank account details. It will also ensure that registrants obtain health certificates and professional accreditations and are accessible when required.
The approved centres can register workers through the LMRA website, which will contribute to the government’s efforts in protecting human rights, addressing the issue of irregular employment, and gaining a clearer picture of the kingdom’s labour market demands.
Flexi permit holders will be given a period of time to register under the new system, she added.
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