Bahrain Deports 250+ Illegal Workers After Inspections

In a recent push to uphold labor and residency laws, Bahrain has ramped up efforts to enforce strict visa regulations, especially for foreign workers. This effort is part of the country's ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment. Since 2010, Bahrain has focused on identifying fraudulent documentation and other irregularities, monitoring visa practices with an emphasis on transparency and security.

Intensive Inspections Lead to Hundreds of Deportations

Between November 3 and November 9, 2024, Bahrain’s Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) spearheaded an intensive campaign. Across 1,481 inspection visits nationwide, authorities detained 30 workers for violating labor laws and deported an additional 257 individuals for residency and employment-related violations. The inspections targeted businesses across all governorates, bringing attention to illegal employment practices and reinforcing Bahrain’s commitment to a regulated labor market.

 

 

 

 

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Multi-Agency Collaboration Ensures Compliance

These inspections were not conducted in isolation. The LMRA collaborated with multiple government bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs, and police directorates in each governorate. Other key partners included the General Directorate of Crime Detection and Forensic Evidence, the General Directorate of Verdict Enforcement and Alternative Sentencing, the Coast Guard, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority.

Together, these agencies carried out 1,457 shop inspections across Bahrain, along with 24 joint campaigns in the Capital, Muharraq, and Southern Governorates. This multi-agency approach reflects Bahrain’s commitment to addressing unauthorized employment practices to protect the country’s economic and social security.

Creating a Fair and Competitive Labor Market

The LMRA’s inspections serve a broader purpose: by rooting out illegal employment practices, Bahrain is working to build a fair and competitive labor market that can attract regulated employment opportunities. For citizens, residents, and businesses, this means greater economic stability and a level playing field for both employers and employees.

How to Report Suspected Violations

Bahrain encourages public support in these efforts to maintain a lawful and transparent work environment. Residents and citizens can report suspected labor law violations through the LMRA’s website (www.lmra.gov.bh), the call center at 17506055, or the Suggestions and Complaints System (Tawasul).