The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) is a government body with a corporate identity that is endowed with full financial and administrative independence under the authority of a board of directors duly chaired by the Minister of Labour.
The Authority was established on May 31, 2006 based on a law issued by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa al Khalifa, the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Law has mandated LMRA with regulating and controlling work permits for expatriate employees and self-employed, in addition to issuing licences for manpower and recruitment agencies.
Further responsibilities of the LMRA are introducing Labour Market reforms and tackling all issues related to this sector by drafting a strategy and policy of employment of nationals and expatriate employees. Additionally, the Authority is responsible for the collection and analysis of data, information and statistics on the economic situation in the Kingdom, especially with regards to the Labour Market. These reports are published by appropriate means to allow the public to get acquainted with them.
LMRA as a central body will endeavor in:
Issuing entry visas and residence and official identification card for foreign workers in coordination with the competent bodies such as the General Directorate of nationality, Passports and Residence, Foreign Ministry, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Industry and commerce, and Central Informatics Organization and Social Insurance organization.
Issuance of work permits for employment of domestic workers.
Request medical examinations of foreign workers and the necessary tests in coordination with the concerned authorities, the collection of all fees relating to work permits and licenses issued in accordance with the law and propose programmes and policies to develop the labour market matters beyond their jurisdiction and provide the stakeholders with information and data.
