All You Need to Know About Dependent Visas in Bahrain

November 18, 2024

Key Highlights

  • Dependent visas in Bahrain allow the families of foreign workers to live with them.
  • To qualify, the worker who is sponsoring the family must follow some rules, including having a minimum income.
  • There are different types of dependent visas for spouses, children, and other qualifying family members.
  • To apply, you need to submit the required documents and pay the necessary fees.
  • It usually takes around 3 working days for the LMRA and 7 days for Cooperative Entities to process these dependent visas.

Introduction

Navigating visas can be tough, especially when you are moving to a new country with your family. In Bahrain, the dependent visa is very important. This visa allows workers to bring their families to live with them. It also helps prevent the exploitation of visit visas. The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) is the main organization that issues and manages dependent visas in Bahrain.

Understanding Dependent Visas in Bahrain

A dependent visa in Bahrain, also called a dependants residency permit, is a kind of residence permit. It lets foreign workers bring their family members to live with them. This helps keep families together and gives support to workers and their loved ones. These visas usually last for the same time as the worker’s work permit.

If you are going to Bahrain for a short job or moving there for a long time, you should learn about dependent visas. Knowing about these visas will help you follow the rules when bringing your family to your new home.

Definition and Eligibility Criteria

A dependent visa in Bahrain is also called a family visa. This visa allows family members to live with an expat worker who has a valid work permit. It helps keep families together and provides support for workers living in Bahrain.

To get a dependent visa, you need to follow a few rules. First, the worker who is sponsoring the visa must have a valid work permit. They also need to earn a minimum salary, usually BHD 400 or more, based on the Social Insurance Organization (SIO) records. Second, only the worker’s spouse and children under 24 years old can apply as family members. When applying, it’s important to provide documents that show you are related, like marriage and birth certificates.

Types of Dependent Visas Available

Bahrain has various dependent visas for foreign workers and their families. Here are the main types:

  • Dependent Visa for Spouse: This visa lets the legally married spouse of a foreign worker live in Bahrain.
  • Dependent Visa for Children: This visa is for unmarried children under 24 years old who need financial support from their parent working in Bahrain.
  • Other Dependent Visas: There may be visas for other dependents too. This can include parents or siblings with disabilities who rely on the expatriate worker for financial help.

Application Process for Dependent Visas

The process to get dependent visas has several steps. These steps make sure that all important requirements are handled at the centre. It is a simple process. It helps applicants know what to do at each stage and what documents to provide.

Before you start, you need to collect all the required documents. This includes your nationality passports. Getting these documents ready can help avoid delays. The papers you usually need are: a worker’s work permit, passport copies for every applicant, marriage certificates if needed, birth certificates for children, and proof of income. After you organize these documents, you can submit your application online or through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

The process to get a dependent visa in Bahrain is now easier. Here is a simple guide:

  • Gather Required Documents: You need the worker’s passport and their Bahrain work permit. If you are applying for your spouse, add the marriage certificate. For children, include their birth certificates and proof of income and housing.
  • Complete the Application Form: Download the application form from the LMRA website.
  • Pay the Fees: There is a fee for the dependent visa application. Check the latest fee details on the LMRA website and pay as instructed.
  • Submit the Application: Hand in the finished application form with all required documents.
  • Track Your Application: You can track your application online at the LMRA website or call their support center.

Required Documents

To get a dependent visa in Bahrain, you need to show some important documents. If it fits your case, one of these documents is a divorce certificate. These papers help prove who you are, your connection to the worker sponsoring you, and other important details. Here is what you usually need:

  • Passports: You need clear copies of the passports. This is for both the person sponsoring and the dependent applying for the visa. The passports should be valid for at least six months.
  • Visa Application Forms: Each dependent must fill out and sign their own visa application form.
  • Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos are required for every dependent.
  • Birth Certificates: If you are applying for children, make sure to get attested copies of their birth certificates.
  • Marriage Certificate: If you want a visa for your wife or husband, you need to include an attested copy of the marriage certificate.
  • Employment Proof: You must have documents showing the sponsoring worker’s job in Bahrain, such as a work contract or an employer’s letter.

Fees

The prices for a Dependent Visa in Bahrain are shown below:

Fee TypeAmount (BD)
Service Fee90
Administration Fee5
Total95

It’s important to keep in mind that fees can change. Applicants should look at the latest fees with the LMRA or the embassy or consulate before they apply. You can usually pay online or at specific banks.

Processing Time

The time it takes to process a dependent visa application in the Kingdom of Bahrain is usually up to 3 working days if you apply through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). If you go through Cooperative Entities, it may take 7 working days. This time can change based on how complete your application is, how many applications they are handling, and any other issues that may arise.

It’s wise to keep track of how long processing takes. This helps families prepare as they reunite with their loved ones in Bahrain. For the latest news on processing times, you can reach out to the LMRA or check their official website.

Legal Regulations

The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) in Bahrain makes rules about dependent visas. These rules help make sure that visa applications are treated fairly. They also stop people from using visit visas to work.

Resolution No. (121) of 2007 talks about visas and permits for family members of workers and foreign employers. This began the rules for dependent visas. Since that time, there have been updates, like Resolution No. (34) of 2021, which makes the process better. It is important for people applying for these visas to check the LMRA’s official channels for the latest information. This way, they can have an easy and legal application process.

Types of dependent visas available in Bahrain

In Bahrain, there are different kinds of dependent visas for foreign workers and their families. Here are the most popular types:

  • Spouse Visa: This visa is for the legal partner of someone who works in Bahrain.
  • Child Visa: This visa lets dependent children, usually those under 21, or up to 24 if they are students, live in Bahrain.
  • Parent Visa: Sometimes, parents get visas since they depend on their working children in Bahrain.

These visa types allow family members to be near their loved ones in Bahrain. This helps create a strong community and support system. However, each visa has specific requirements. Make sure to read the rules for eligibility and gather the needed documents before you apply.

Who is Eligible for a Dependent Visa?

To get a visa in Bahrain as a dependent, you usually need to be a close family member of the worker who is sponsoring you. This means you can be the worker’s spouse, children under a certain age, and sometimes, you can also be a parent.

The worker who applies for a visa needs to follow some rules if they want to get dependent visas for their family members. One rule is that they must have a specific level of income. The worker also needs to provide proof of legal residency and employment in Bahrain. These steps make sure that the family members of the worker have enough financial support while in Bahrain.

Common issues faced with dependent visas in Bahrain

Applying for a dependent visa in Bahrain can be tough. A big challenge is the strict income requirement. This can be hard for some expatriates, especially if they are new. Another issue is the delays in processing times. These delays often occur because of missing documents or too many applications.

Changes in rules or requirements can happen unexpectedly. When this happens, it can lead to confusion and hold things up. To avoid this, you should stay updated with the latest rules. You can visit the LMRA website regularly. You can also email us for help from professionals.

Living in Bahrain on a Family Visa

Living in Bahrain with a family visa is a great experience. It lets families be together while exploring a new culture and way of life. With a family visa, dependents can often work or go to school in Bahrain. However, they may need to get additional permits for these activities.

Bahrain has a vibrant blend of modern and traditional lifestyles. Expats can find plenty of housing choices, international schools, healthcare options, and entertaining activities. However, it’s crucial to respect local customs and traditions. It’s generally best to dress modestly, particularly in public areas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to understand dependent visas in Bahrain if you want to live there with your family. You should pay attention to the eligibility requirements, the application steps, and the legal rules. Knowing the common problems with dependent visas in Bahrain and the different types available will help you. Living in Bahrain on a family visa can be a good experience, but you need to follow the rules. If you have questions or need advice about dependent visas in Bahrain, feel free to contact our experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a dependent visa in Bahrain?

Any worker from another country in Bahrain can apply for a dependant visa for their family members if they meet certain requirements. These requirements often include having a specific income, holding valid residency, and being able to support their family financially in Bahrain. The family members who can usually get this visa include the spouse, children, and sometimes parents.

How long does it take to process a dependent visa?

It generally takes 3 to 7 working days to process a dependent visa in Bahrain. This timeframe begins when you submit a complete application form along with all the required documents for Saudi Arabia. The residency affairs department will determine the final timing. This can vary based on how many applications they get and other outside factors.

What are the fees associated with applying for a dependent visa?

The price for a dependent visa in Bahrain can be different. It is typically about 95 BD. This amount usually covers both service and administration fees. To get the latest prices, it is a good idea to check official sources before you apply.

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