Gulf Digital News, 31 August 2026: The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) has introduced an enhanced digital service allowing employers to renew work permits for Golden Residency holders, reducing processing time and simplifying procedures.
The new system enables renewals for six months, one year or two years, with processing now immediate and automated instead of the previous 10‑day timeframe. Documentation requirements have been cut by 50%, approvals reduced by 25%, and application steps streamlined. Service Level Agreements (SLAs) have also been shortened by 25%.
Information about the service has been standardised across all channels, improving clarity and efficiency. LMRA deputy CEO Ahmed Al Arabi said the initiative reflects the authority’s commitment to adopting innovative digital solutions, enhancing service quality and reducing time and effort for beneficiaries.
The development forms part of Bahrain’s wider digital transformation programme, which has documented and re‑engineered more than 1,300 government services, with 800 improved based on feedback from the Tawasul complaints system, investors and service evaluations.
The Golden Residency Visa, issued by the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA), provides a 10‑year renewable residency for investors, property owners, highly skilled professionals and retirees. Eligibility criteria include owning real estate valued at BD130,000 or more, earning a monthly salary of BD4,000, receiving a pension of at least BD2,000, or holding exceptional talent certifications. Successful applicants can sponsor immediate family members and benefit from unlimited entry and exit privileges.
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