Bahrain has introduced new rules allowing eligible foreign workers to take temporary jobs with other employers for up to three months. The change gives expatriates greater flexibility while helping businesses manage short-term staffing needs.
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) introduced the amendment through Resolution No. 2 of 2026. The rules apply to foreign workers holding valid work permits, but exclude domestic workers. <Cite refs={[“turn581558search1″,”turn581558search2”]} />
Foreign Workers Can Work for Another Employer
Under the new framework, eligible foreign workers can work for another employer for up to 90 days. However, they must obtain approval from the LMRA before starting the temporary assignment.
The worker must provide written consent, while both the current and temporary employers must agree to the arrangement. The authorities must also record the employment period in their official system.
Employers Must Meet Bahrainisation Requirements
The rules link temporary hiring to Bahrainisation, the policy that prioritises employment for Bahraini citizens.
The new employer’s business activity must meet the same Bahrainisation rate as the worker’s current employer or a higher rate. If its required rate is lower, the employer must pay an additional fee under the revised rules.
Both employers must also accept joint responsibility for protecting the worker’s employment rights during the temporary assignment.
Applications Must Go Through the LMRA
Employers must submit and manage temporary work arrangements through the LMRA’s Expat Management System. The application also carries an administrative fee of BHD 5.
Workers should confirm that their permits remain valid and ensure all required approvals are in place before accepting temporary employment.
The reform aims to make Bahrain’s labour market more flexible while maintaining oversight of foreign employment and safeguarding workers’ contractual rights.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
