What was the Flexi Permit?
The Flexi Permit (also called the Flexi Visa) was a self-sponsorship work authorisation scheme introduced by Bahrain's Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). It was designed for expatriate workers who were without a traditional employer-sponsor, such as those whose previous employment had ended or who were in an irregular residency situation. Rather than requiring a single kafeel (employer-sponsor), the Flexi Permit allowed the holder to work for multiple employers on a flexible basis and act as their own sponsor for residency purposes.
The scheme represented a notable departure from the conventional kafala model and was aimed at reducing the number of undocumented workers while giving a legal pathway to self-sufficient residents. However, LMRA stopped accepting new Flexi Permit applications in 2022, directing prospective applicants toward alternative schemes. Existing holders at the time were given transitional arrangements.
How the Flexi Permit worked (legacy)
- Eligibility check: The scheme was open to certain categories of irregular or unsponsored workers in Bahrain. Eligibility criteria were defined by LMRA and included nationality, occupational category, and residence history.
- Application at LMRA: Applicants submitted the application directly to LMRA, which acted as the administrative sponsor for Flexi Permit holders rather than a private employer.
- Monthly fee payment: Holders paid a monthly fee to LMRA that covered the work permit authorisation. The amount varied by category and year and included charges that covered aspects of the residency and work entitlement.
- CPR issuance: Successful applicants received a CPR card under the Flexi Permit category, giving them legal residency and identity documentation.
- Renewal: The permit was renewed monthly or periodically through continued fee payments and compliance with LMRA requirements.
Rules, validity and cost (legacy)
The monthly fee structure covered the work permit and residency status. Holders were responsible for their own health insurance and social contributions, unlike sponsored workers whose employer bears some of these costs. The permit did not grant permanent residency rights or a path to citizenship. Because the scheme has been wound down for new applicants since 2022, the original Flexi Permit is now a legacy programme. Anyone seeking a self-sponsorship or employer-independent work arrangement in Bahrain should check LMRA directly for any current successor schemes, as the regulatory landscape has continued to evolve.
What expats should know
Bahrain has continued to explore labour market flexibility through alternative arrangements after closing the Flexi Permit to new applicants. Anyone who held a Flexi Permit should confirm through LMRA what their current status is and whether a transition to a different permit category has been completed. Workers who were on the Flexi Permit and whose transition was not finalised may be at risk of irregular status. The LMRA website at lmra.gov.bh is the authoritative source for any current self-sponsorship or flexible work options that may have replaced the original scheme.