Bahrain
Labour Market Regulatory Authority
Bahrain's Labour Market Regulatory Authority - the gateway for every private-sector expat work permit.
Overview
LMRA (lmra.bh) is the statutory authority for the issuance, renewal, transfer, and cancellation of work permits for expat workers in Bahrain's private sector. Almost every employer action runs through the LMRA Expat Management System (ems.lmra.bh).
Workers use the public LMRA portal mainly for the 'LMRA visa check' - confirming permit status, expiry, sponsor, and visa type using CPR or passport number. SEHATI health-insurance contributions are also paid through LMRA.
Services offered
- Work visa issuance
- Work permit transfer
- Flexi permits
- Visa renewal
How to access
1. Worker check
Open lmra.bh, choose 'Expat Services' then 'Visa Validity', and enter CPR or passport number with nationality to view status.
2. Sponsor registration
Employers register the establishment on ems.lmra.bh, link the CR, and assign authorised users.
3. Use
Sponsors file work permits, pay fees and SEHATI, and manage transfers. Workers verify status from the public portal.
FAQs
Yes, the visa validity check on lmra.bh is free and does not require login.
Most permit actions are sponsor-side via EMS. Workers can check status, raise complaints, and initiate transfers under specific rules.
Skip the hassle
If you're stuck on a LMRA transaction, a typing centre can take it from here.
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