Bahrain•AsiaFamily Residence Permit (Dependent Sponsorship)
At a Glance
3-10 working days
Not confirmed
BHD 95 (BHD 90 service fee + BHD 5 admin fee)
2 years (renewable)
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Dependent sponsorship permit allowing expatriate employees in Bahrain to bring spouses and children on a renewable 2-year residence status, subject to a minimum income threshold.
The Family Residence Permit, often referred to as a dependent visa, allows expatriate employees residing in Bahrain to sponsor their immediate family members to join them. This permit is essential for maintaining family unity while working in the Kingdom. The process is managed by the employee's sponsoring employer through the LMRA, and it requires the sponsor to meet a minimum income threshold to demonstrate the financial capacity to support their dependents. It is important to note that this permit grants the right to reside in Bahrain but does not automatically grant the right to work; dependents wishing to work must obtain their own separate work permits.
This visa is specifically for the spouses and children of foreign workers who have established residency in Bahrain. It is a vital service for long-term expatriates who wish to bring their families to live with them. The application requires rigorous documentation, including attested marriage and birth certificates, to verify family relationships. By providing a clear legal framework for family reunification, the Kingdom of Bahrain enables expatriates to settle more comfortably, supporting the country's goal of being an attractive destination for international talent and their families.
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
BahrainRequirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
The sponsor (employee) must hold a valid residence permit in Bahrain.
The sponsor must have a minimum monthly net income of BHD 400 (as per SIO registration).
The permit is for immediate family members, including spouses and children (typically up to age 24).
Dependents already in Bahrain on a visit or other permit must have a valid status at the time of application.
The application must be submitted by the sponsor's employer or authorized representative via the LMRA system.
KEY CRITERIA
Min. Income
4,800 BHD/yr
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Copy of dependent's passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Marriage certificate (for spouses, attested/translated if necessary)
Birth certificates for children (attested/translated if necessary)
Copy of sponsor's valid residence permit and ID
Valid medical insurance certificate issued in Bahrain
No-objection letter from the other parent (if applicable)
Proof of enrollment for children over 18 (if applicable)
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows immediate family to reside together in Bahrain
- Provides access to local services like banking and driver's licenses
- Renewable as long as the primary sponsor maintains their status
Worth Knowing
- Does not grant the holder automatic authorization to work
- Requires the primary sponsor to meet a minimum monthly income threshold
- Requires specific attestation for foreign-issued marriage or birth certificates
Application Process
Sponsor logs into the LMRA Expat Management System (EMS)
Submit application and upload required digital documents
Pay the required service and admin fees online
Wait for verification and approval by LMRA/NPRA
Print the residence permit via the National Portal
Related visas
More visas in Bahrain
Family visas in other countries
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