Manama: His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, announced the issuance of Edict (79) of 2025. This edict amends Article (1) of Decision No. (26) of 2008, which pertains to the fees associated with the issuance and renewal of work permits and residency permits for the families of foreign workers.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the edict was enacted following a recommendation from the Minister of Labour, who also serves as the Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, and after receiving approval from the Cabinet. The key amendment involves the restructuring of fees payable by employers for each work permit and its renewal. This covers various processes, including the work permit, entry visa, no-objection certificate, residency permit, return visa, medical examination, and ID card. Additionally, employers are responsible for paying monthly fees for each foreign worker.
The newly structured annual fee is to be collected in proportion to the duration of the work permit as determined by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority. The Minister of Labour, along with the Chairman of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority and all relevant authorities, is tasked with implementing the provisions of this edict. The changes are set to take effect from 1 January 2026, and the edict will be published in the Official Gazette.