Key Reforms
🔄 Worker Portability
Employees can transfer between employers without requiring NOC (No Objection Certificate) from current employer after completing 12 months. Reduces Kafala system restrictions.
📊 Bahrainisation Quotas
Sector-specific Bahraini employment ratios. Retail: 50%. Banking: 70%. Government: 95%. Non-compliance results in LMRA work permit restrictions for new hires.
💰 Wage Protection System
Mandatory electronic salary payment through WPS for all private sector employers. Salaries must be deposited by the 7th working day of each month. Non-compliance penalties: BD 200-500 per violation.
🛡️ Unemployment Insurance
1% contribution from both employer and employee. Bahraini workers qualify for unemployment benefits after 12 months of contributions. Maximum benefit: 9 months of payments.