Bahrain could soon enhance its national digital platform by integrating expatriate work permits and residency status details into the MyGov app, as part of a proposed digital transformation aimed at curbing illegal employment and improving access to government services.
The app, launched earlier this year, is a cornerstone of Bahrain’s eGovernment strategy. It offers secure, unified access to a wide range of services for both citizens and residents.
The platform is powered by the revamped eKey 2.0 system, which features biometric authentication via facial recognition, significantly improving both security and user experience.
The update proposed by Dr Mariam Al Dhaen, a member of Parliament’s Strategic Thinking Bloc, would build on MyGov’s existing framework by introducing digital work permits and residency credentials – securely stored on mobile phones – into the app.
“This is about protecting the integrity of Bahrain’s labour market while embracing a future-ready solution that puts citizens and residents first,” said Dr Al Dhaen.
“A secure and inclusive digital ID system will make it nearly impossible for those without legal status to obtain work, while making life easier for everyone else.”
The initiative mirrors recent reforms in the United Kingdom, where Digital ID will become mandatory for Right to Work checks.
Bahrain’s version would be tailored to local needs, but similarly combine biometric and residency information with state-of-the-art encryption to prevent fraud and misuse.
It is envisioned that the system would not only strengthen regulatory enforcement but also simplify procedures for accessing services such as driving licences, tax records, education and healthcare.
“We’ve seen from countries like Estonia, Denmark, and India how digital ID can simplify bureaucratic processes, reduce fraud and enhance privacy,” Dr Al Dhaen added.
“Bahrain must not be left behind in this digital transformation.”
The move comes as the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) continues its aggressive crackdown on illegal employment. Between January 2024 and September 20, more than 95,000 inspection visits and 1,315 joint campaigns resulted in 3,391 detentions and 10,923 deportations of irregular workers.
While the core focus is curbing illegal employment, the proposed MyGov upgrade also promises streamlined access and added convenience for the vast majority of lawful residents.
“Inclusion is a pillar of this proposal,” Dr Al Dhaen emphasised.
“We will ensure the system works for the elderly, the homeless, and those without smartphones, through a combination of consultation, outreach, and face-to-face support.”
Citizens and residents would no longer need to present physical documents or paper records. Instead, biometrically secured digital credentials could be used instantly to prove identity, work eligibility, and residency status, all from a smartphone.
If a device is lost or stolen, credentials could be revoked and reissued remotely – enhancing security beyond traditional paper documents.
“This is a long-term investment in the country’s stability, efficiency and digital sovereignty,” said Dr Al Dhaen.
“We must move decisively to build a system that works for everyone – residents, businesses and government alike.”
The proposal has received enthusiastic support from MP Ahmed Al Salloom, president of the Strategic Thinking Bloc and chairman of Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee.
“This digital ID proposal is about strengthening our economy, ensuring fair competition in the labour market and promoting national security,” he said.
“By ending reliance on paper documents and manual checks, we can eliminate loopholes that allow illegal employment to persist.
“It’s not just about enforcement; it’s about offering a streamlined, citizen-centric system that can support the efficient delivery of public services and create a modern digital interface between the government and the people.”
The LMRA has consistently called on the public to help combat illegal labour practices.
“This proposed enhanced digital ID would give enforcement agencies another powerful tool to protect Bahrain’s labour ecosystem,” said Mr Al Salloom.
“It aligns perfectly with the government’s vision for a lawful, transparent and efficient labour market.”
The UK’s newly introduced Digital ID system – highlighted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer – will become mandatory for all Right to Work checks by the end of the current Parliament.
It’s part of a wider plan to crack down on illegal working, fake documents and unregulated gig economy practices.
Similarly, Bahrain’s vision includes biometric-based digital identity, stored securely on personal devices, offering real-time validation without the need for physical ID.
UK officials have emphasised the system’s benefits not just for law enforcement, but also for ordinary users – cutting bureaucracy and speeding up access to services.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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