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Government update · 1 January 2026

Bahrain work permit fees have increased — full table for 2026 to 2029

Published 29 March 2026
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PI Startup Advisory (CR 132948-01)
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Source: Edict 79 of 2025 · EY Tax Alert 15 Jan 2026

On 29 December 2025, Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister issued Edict 79 of 2025, increasing work permit fees for foreign employees effective 1 January 2026. The increase covers visa issuance fees, health care fees, and employer monthly contributions. The new rates apply to all new work permits and renewals. Domestic workers are excluded.


Confirmed by Bahrain News Agency (BNA) and Ernst & Young tax advisory alert, 15 January 2026
Edict number Edict 79 of 2025
Issued by HRH Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain
Issued on 29 December 2025
Effective date 1 January 2026
Recommended by Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA)
Duration Phased increase — 2026 through 2029
Applies to All new and renewal work permits for foreign employees
Excluded Domestic workers · Dependent visa fees · Other entity fees

What changed and what did not

Not all LMRA fees increased. A lot of information circulating online conflates work permit costs with investor visa costs — they are different.

Increased from 1 Jan 2026
  • Work permit visa issuance fees
  • Health care fees on work permits
  • Monthly LMRA contributions per foreign employee
Unchanged
  • Dependent (family) visa fees
  • Investor residency permit fees
  • Other entity issuance and renewal fees
Investor residency fees are not affected. The total cost for a 1-year investor residency permit remains BHD 605. The 2-year permit remains BHD 777. Edict 79 of 2025 applies specifically to employee work permits.

Full fee tables — 2026 to 2029

12-month work permit (most common)

Fee component 2025 (old) 2026 2027 2028 2029
Visa issuance fee BHD 105 BHD 105 BHD 111 BHD 118 BHD 125
Health care fee BHD 72 BHD 90 BHD 108 BHD 126 BHD 144
Total per permit BHD 177 BHD 195 BHD 219 BHD 244 BHD 269

In 2026, the health care fee increases from BHD 72 to BHD 90 — a BHD 18 increase per permit per year. The visa fee holds at BHD 105 in 2026, with the step-up beginning in 2027. Total cost per 12-month permit rises from BHD 177 to BHD 195.

6-month work permit

Fee component 2026 2027 2028 2029
Visa issuance fee BHD 52.5 BHD 55.5 BHD 59 BHD 62.5
Health care fee BHD 45 BHD 54 BHD 63 BHD 72
Total per permit BHD 97.5 BHD 109.5 BHD 122 BHD 134.5

24-month work permit

Fee component 2026 2027 2028 2029
Visa issuance fee BHD 210 BHD 222 BHD 236 BHD 250
Health care fee BHD 180 BHD 216 BHD 252 BHD 288
Total per permit BHD 390 BHD 438 BHD 488 BHD 538

Monthly LMRA contributions — the bigger change for larger companies

This is where the impact is largest for companies with 6 or more foreign workers. The monthly contribution per worker was BHD 5 for all companies. From January 2026, companies with 6+ foreign employees pay BHD 12.5 per worker — 2.5× the old rate.

Company size 2025 (old) 2026 2027 2028 2029
1–5 foreign workers BHD 5 BHD 7.5 BHD 10 BHD 20 BHD 30
6+ foreign workers BHD 5 BHD 12.5 BHD 15 BHD 20 BHD 30

What this means for a company with 8 foreign employees in 2026

Monthly contributions — before
BHD 40 / month
BHD 100
8 workers × BHD 12.5

Additional annual cost
 
BHD 720
Monthly contributions alone

Monthly contribution trend — per worker (BHD)

What this means for foreign-owned companies

For most small foreign-owned WLLs with 2–5 employees, the 2026 impact is manageable — the work permit cost increases by BHD 18 per employee (health fee only), and the monthly contribution rises from BHD 5 to BHD 7.5 per worker.

The larger impact lands on companies with 6 or more foreign employees. For these companies, the monthly contribution nearly triples in 2026, and continues rising annually through 2029.

For companies planning significant hiring in Bahrain over the next four years, these changes need to be in the HR and finance budget now — not discovered at the next work permit renewal cycle.

Four actions to take now: (1) Update your 2026–2029 workforce budget with the new permit costs and monthly contributions as line items. (2) Check whether any current permits are due for renewal in 2026 — all renewals after 1 January 2026 use the new rates. (3) If your company is approaching 6 foreign employees, model both the 1–5 and 6+ contribution rates before the next hire. (4) Review Flexible Work Permit arrangements separately — Edict 79 covers standard commercial work permits only.

Frequently asked questions

Do the new fees apply to existing permits or only new applications?
Both. The new rates apply to all new issuances and all renewals processed on or after 1 January 2026. A permit issued in 2025 at the old rate will renew in 2026 at the new rate.

Are investor residency permits affected?
No. Investor residency fees are not covered by Edict 79 of 2025. The total cost for a 1-year investor residency permit remains BHD 605. The 2-year permit remains BHD 777. Only employee work permits are affected.

Are domestic workers covered?
No. Domestic workers are explicitly excluded from Edict 79 of 2025. The new fee structure applies only to commercial work permits for employees in registered companies.

Is the monthly LMRA contribution changing for companies with fewer than 6 foreign workers?
Yes, but by less. Companies with 1–5 foreign workers see the monthly contribution rise from BHD 5 to BHD 7.5 in 2026, reaching BHD 30 per worker per month by 2029. The larger jump falls on companies with 6 or more foreign workers, where the 2026 rate becomes BHD 12.5.

Will fees increase again after 2029?
The current edict sets a 4-year schedule through 2029. LMRA periodically reviews its fee structure. There is no published schedule beyond 2029 at this time.

Do the new fees apply to the Flexible Work Permit?
The fee tables published under Edict 79 cover standard commercial work permits. The Flexible Work Permit has a separate fee structure. If your company works with Flexible Work Permit holders, confirm the current applicable rates directly with LMRA.

Sources

1. Bahrain News Agency (BNA) — Edict 79 of 2025: bna.bh
2. Ernst & Young tax advisory alert, 15 January 2026: taxnews.ey.com
3. LMRA official work permit page (updated 30 December 2025): lmra.gov.bh

Have work permits coming up for renewal in 2026? We manage 5,000+ work permits in Bahrain. Free consultation — no commitment.


Are you a business owner in Bahrain looking for government support? The National Incentive Initiative brings exciting opportunities for commercial establishments today. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce recently launched this powerful program. It helps businesses grow faster and operate more efficiently than before.

This initiative addresses common challenges entrepreneurs face on their journey. Getting business licenses can be complicated and time-consuming for many. Registration processes often create barriers for new and existing companies. Financial constraints limit growth potential for small and medium enterprises.

This blog post clearly explains everything you need to know. You will learn about specific business incentives available through this program. The application process is described in simple, easy-to-follow steps throughout.

Understanding the National Incentive Initiative

Understanding the National Incentive Initiative

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce oversees commercial activities throughout Bahrain. They work continuously to create a business-friendly ecosystem for everyone. This ministry announced the National Incentive Initiative as its latest program. 

The announcement came through official channels, including the Bahrain News Agency. The Kingdom of Bahrain consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to economic development. 

Supporting commercial establishments strengthens the overall economy and creates jobs. This government support program targets businesses across retail, manufacturing, and services. Small and medium enterprises receive special attention under this initiative.

Purpose and Strategic Alignment

The initiative aligns perfectly with Bahrain’s national economic diversification goals. Economic growth depends heavily on a thriving and competitive commercial sector. The program encourages entrepreneurship and supports business sustainability for long-term success. It helps position Bahrain as a regional business hub and attracts investment.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce carefully designed this regulatory framework. They consulted with private sector stakeholders to understand real business needs. The result is a comprehensive program addressing multiple challenges simultaneously.

Key Business Incentives and Support Mechanisms

Key Business Incentives and Support Mechanisms

The National Incentive Initiative provides multiple layers of support for businesses. Commercial establishments can access both financial and non-financial assistance programs. 

The government has committed substantial resources to ensure program success. Understanding these benefits helps business owners effectively maximize their opportunities.

Business incentives come in various forms to suit different company needs. Each component addresses specific operational challenges that entrepreneurs commonly face.

Financial Support and Fee Reductions

The program offers direct financial incentives to qualifying commercial establishments. Business owners can benefit from reduced registration and licensing fees. These fee reductions significantly lower the cost barrier for new startups.

Key Financial Benefits:

  • Reduced business registration fees for new commercial establishments
  • Lower licensing costs across multiple business categories and sectors
  • Subsidies for specific business development activities and growth initiatives
  • Financial assistance for technology adoption and digital transformation projects

Streamlined Registration and Licensing Processes

Registration complexity often discourages potential entrepreneurs from starting their businesses. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce simplified these procedures under this initiative. Fast-track processing helps companies launch operations much more quickly than before.

Business licensing now follows a more efficient and transparent pathway. The streamlined processes reduce bureaucratic delays that previously frustrated business owners. Compliance requirements have been adjusted to reasonable and manageable levels.

Process Improvements Include:

  • Faster application processing times for all commercial establishment types
  • Simplified documentation requirements for business registration and licensing
  • Online submission channels for convenient application from anywhere
  • Clear guidelines that reduce confusion and application errors

Capacity Building and Technical Assistance

Beyond financial help, businesses need knowledge and skills to succeed. The initiative provides comprehensive training programs for business owners and staff. These educational opportunities cover essential topics like business planning and strategy.

Technical assistance helps commercial establishments solve operational challenges they face daily. Expert advisors guide entrepreneurs through complex business decisions and planning. Mentorship opportunities connect new business owners with experienced industry professionals.

Eligibility and Who Can Benefit

Eligibility and Who Can Benefit

The National Incentive Initiative welcomes diverse types of commercial establishments. Understanding eligibility helps businesses determine if they qualify for support. The program has inclusive criteria to maximize participation and impact.

Both new startups and existing businesses can access a range of benefits. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce encourages all eligible companies to apply.

Business Types and Sectors Covered

Business CategoryEligible for Support
Small Enterprises✓ Yes
Medium Enterprises✓ Yes
Retail Businesses✓ Yes
Manufacturing Companies✓ Yes
Service Providers✓ Yes
Trade Establishments✓ Yes
Startups✓ Yes
Existing Companies✓ Yes

Application Requirements

Businesses must meet specific basic requirements to participate in programs. Commercial establishments must be appropriately registered with the relevant Bahrain government authorities.

Documentation proving business activities and operations is required during the application. The application process has been designed for simplicity and accessibility. Business owners can submit applications through multiple convenient channels today.

Expected Economic Impact and Benefits

Expected Economic Impact and Benefits

The government support program will substantially strengthen Bahrain’s commercial sector. The initiative creates positive effects across multiple economic indicators and metrics. Business owners gain immediate advantages, while the economy benefits in the long term.

Job creation accelerates when commercial establishments receive support and grow successfully. Economic diversification advances as new businesses enter different sectors and industries. The ease of doing business improves, attracting more entrepreneurs and investors.

Benefits for Business Owners

  • Enhanced competitiveness in local and regional markets through better support
  • Reduced operational costs from fee reductions and financial assistance programs
  • Improved access to knowledge through training and mentorship opportunities
  • Faster market entry with streamlined registration and licensing processes
  • Better sustainability prospects with comprehensive government backing and resources

Benefits for Bahrain’s Economy

The commercial sector plays a vital role in national prosperity. Supporting businesses creates a ripple effect throughout the entire economy. More successful companies mean more employment opportunities for Bahraini citizens.

A robust business ecosystem attracts foreign investment to the Kingdom. International companies see Bahrain as an attractive location for operations. The initiative reinforces Bahrain’s regional reputation as a business-friendly jurisdiction.

How to Access the National Incentive Initiative

How to Access the National Incentive Initiative

Taking advantage of this program requires understanding the application pathway. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce provides clear guidance for businesses. Following the proper steps ensures smooth processing and faster approval.

Step-by-Step Application Process

  • Verify Eligibility: Check if your business type qualifies for the initiative’s benefits. Review the sector and size requirements for your commercial establishment.
  • Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary business registration documents and operational records. Ensure all paperwork is up to date and accurately reflects your business.
  • Submit Application: Use official Ministry of Industry and Commerce channels for submission. Online portals provide convenient access for busy business owners.
  • Await Processing: The MOIC reviews applications in accordance with established timelines and criteria. Businesses receive updates on their application status throughout the process.

Government Commitment to Business Success

Government Commitment to Business Success

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce demonstrates a genuine commitment to entrepreneurs. This National Incentive Initiative reflects careful planning and stakeholder consultation. Officials recognize that commercial establishments drive economic prosperity and development.

Public-private sector collaboration remains essential for achieving shared economic goals. The government values input from business owners and industry associations. This partnership approach ensures that programs effectively meet real business needs.

The regulatory framework continues evolving to better support business growth. Ministry officials regularly review policies to identify opportunities for improvement. Bahrain’s business-friendly ecosystem continues to strengthen through such dedicated initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the National Incentive Initiative?

A government program by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce supporting businesses. It provides financial incentives and streamlined processes for commercial establishments.

Who can apply for National Incentive Initiatives?

Small, medium, and large businesses across retail, manufacturing, and services. Both new startups and existing commercial establishments qualify for benefits.

What benefits does the National Incentive Initiative provide?

Fee reductions, streamlined registration, technical assistance, and training programs. Financial incentives and capacity-building support are key components.

What sectors are covered under this National Incentive Initiative?

Retail, manufacturing, services, and trade sectors all receive program coverage. The initiative has broad applicability across Bahrain’s commercial landscape.

Conclusion

The National Incentive Initiative represents a transformative opportunity for Bahraini businesses. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce created a comprehensive program addressing real needs. Commercial establishments now have unprecedented access to valuable support and resources. 

Smart business owners will take action and apply for support. This program strengthens individual businesses while boosting the entire commercial sector.PI Startup Advisory helps entrepreneurs navigate Bahrain’s business landscape successfully. Our expert team provides comprehensive guidance on company setup and growth. Contact PI Startup Advisory today to learn how we can help your commercial establishment succeed in Bahrain’s thriving economy.