Reviewed: 9 October 2026. This is general information. Official sources are linked below; individual cases and applicable rules should be checked with the relevant authority or a qualified adviser.
Check the permit before starting
LMRA’s transfer service allows a change of employer without cancelling the existing work permit. The permit must have at least five days of validity. An expired permit requires a new-permit application rather than this transfer route.
- Check the permit expiry date and how long you have held the current permit.
- The new employer submits the request in the Expat Management System (EMS).
Official sources: LMRA: Expatriate Employee Transfer (updated 9 September 2026)
How does the current employer respond?
LMRA distinguishes employees who have completed 12 months under their current permit from those who have not. Before 12 months, the employer can reject the request; no response within seven days cancels the application. After 12 months, no response within seven days leads to approval after the stated notice period. Other eligibility conditions still apply.
A request during the final three months of permit validity requires the current employer’s consent. Do not treat the 12-month threshold as unconditional permission to transfer.
Official sources: LMRA: Expatriate Employee Transfer (updated 9 September 2026)
Documents and the handover
Prepare passport copies, relevant occupation approvals and any dependant documents required by the official checklist. Keep resignation, termination or employer-consent evidence and proof of delivery.
- Continue working for the current employer until the transfer is approved and the new employer pays the permit fees.
- The new employer must pay the permit fees within 30 days of approval or approval is revoked.
- Use the official service page and EMS invoice for current fees; a processing estimate is not a promised transfer date.
Official sources: LMRA: Expatriate Employee Transfer (updated 9 September 2026)
Keep a record of your application
Retain the application number, notices and payment confirmations. Check the actual EMS status before changing workplace arrangements. If eligibility, notice or a dispute is unclear, contact LMRA or obtain advice about your individual circumstances.
Official sources: LMRA: Expatriate Employee Transfer (updated 9 September 2026)
Related guides
- LMRA absence-from-work reports and grievances
- End-of-service benefits in Bahrain: SIO and earlier service
- Bahrain Dependent Visa: Spouse & Children
- Bahrain termination notice and final settlement
- Bahrain Flexi Visa: Registered Worker Permit
- Bahrain pension calculation: check your SIO scheme
- Bahrain SIO contribution rates: scheme and payroll checks
- Leaving and returning to Bahrain: travel checks
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