Can I Get a Bahrain Work Visa Without UAE Cancellation?

Yes, you can apply for a work visa from Bahrain even if your UAE work visa is still valid, but there are important considerations and procedures to follow:

1. Exit Requirements from UAE:

• The UAE typically requires that your work visa be cancelled before you permanently leave or take up employment in another GCC country.

• If your UAE visa is not cancelled, it may create immigration issues in the future, such as re-entry bans or difficulties in getting future visas.

2. Employer Obligation in UAE:

• Your previous UAE employer must initiate the visa cancellation through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

• You will need to sign a cancellation form and your Emirates ID must be returned.

3. Applying for a Bahrain Work Visa:

• A Bahraini employer must sponsor your visa. They will apply for a work permit through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

• You will need to provide documents such as a valid passport, passport-size photos, medical test results, and employment contract.

• The Bahrain authorities may not process your visa if your UAE visa shows as ""active"" in shared GCC immigration systems.

4. Important Notes:

• It is highly recommended to cancel your UAE visa properly before proceeding with Bahrain's visa application to avoid delays or blacklisting.

• You should exit the UAE legally, with an exit stamp, once your visa is cancelled.

5. What to Do Next:

• Contact your UAE employer or PRO to start the visa cancellation.

• Inform your Bahrain employer so they can coordinate the visa process accordingly.

In summary, it's possible to apply for a Bahrain work visa, but having an active UAE visa may cause complications. Visa cancellation and a clean exit from the UAE are highly recommended before beginning your new application.