Relocation Package/Services
Bahrain is a leading destination for expatriates and international professionals due to its thriving economy, modern infrastructure, and welcoming expat policies. As businesses continue to set up operations in Bahrain, the demand for relocation services and packages has increased. Foreign employees relocating to Bahrain require support in several aspects, from visa and immigration services to housing and settling-in services. Below is a detailed guide on the relocation packages and services that can be offered to expatriates moving to Bahrain.
Visa & Immigration Services
When relocating to Bahrain, the first step is obtaining the appropriate visa for employment or residency. Relocation services can include the following:
a.
– Employment Visa: Issued for foreign workers by the employer, allowing them to live and work in Bahrain.
– Residence Permit: Once in Bahrain, expatriates need to apply for a residence permit. The work visa is often linked to this, and the residence permit is typically valid for one or two years.
– Family Visa: Employees can sponsor their family members (spouse, children, etc.) for residence in Bahrain, which is valid for the same duration as the work permit.
– Investor Visa: For foreign entrepreneurs, investors, or business owners who want to live in Bahrain while owning a business.
– Visitor Visa: For those entering Bahrain temporarily, with a maximum stay of up to 90 days.
b.
– Application: Help employees navigate the process of obtaining a work permit from the Ministry of Labour, including submitting necessary documentation (e.g., job offer, medical tests, etc.).
– Labor Market Test: In some cases, a labor market test may be required to ensure no local candidates can fill the position before an expatriate can be hired.
c.
– Family Relocation: Assistance with the application process for spouses, children, and sometimes dependent parents, ensuring all family members are legally allowed to reside in Bahrain.
– Dependent’s Work Permit: In certain cases, spouses of expatriates may also be eligible to work in Bahrain. Some relocation services provide information and assistance in applying for a dependent’s work permit.
d.
– Renewal Support: Expats need assistance when it comes time to renew their work and residence permits. Relocation consultants help manage renewal timelines and ensure paperwork is filed correctly.
– Exit Visas: If employees are leaving Bahrain, they will need an exit visa to finalize their departure and ensure their immigration status is cleared.
Housing & Accommodation
Bahrain has a wide range of housing options to suit expatriates, ranging from luxurious villas and apartments to more affordable options. Relocation services often include:
a.
– Short-term Accommodation: Help finding temporary housing solutions (hotels or serviced apartments) while the employee searches for permanent housing.
– Long-term Housing: Assistance with finding permanent accommodation based on preferences (location, budget, amenities). Relocation agents typically have access to listings in both upscale and more budget-friendly areas.
b.
– Lease Agreements: Relocation agents can help expatriates negotiate lease terms, including rental price, contract duration, and maintenance responsibilities.
– Understanding Local Laws: Explanation of Bahrain’s rental laws, tenant rights, and other related legalities to avoid any issues during the lease.
c.
– Furnishing Support: Help with selecting furniture or providing fully furnished options if available. Some services also offer “turnkey” packages where homes are ready for occupation.
– Home Appliances: Assistance in purchasing and setting up home appliances, Internet, and utilities like water, electricity, and phone services.
Financial & Tax Services
Bahrain is known for its tax advantages, which makes it a popular choice for expatriates. Relocation services can help manage financial and tax-related matters.
Bank Account Setup
- Banking Services: Assistance in setting up a local bank account to handle salaries, expenses, and daily transactions. Some services also help with selecting the best bank according to the expatriate's needs.
- Online Banking: Guidance on setting up online banking and mobile apps for easy money management.
Tax Guidance
- No Personal Income Tax: Bahrain has no personal income tax, making it an attractive destination for expatriates. However, some relocation consultants may offer guidance regarding other tax obligations such as social insurance, VAT, or corporate tax for businesses.
- Social Insurance: Information and assistance with Bahrain's social insurance system, which mandates contributions from both employers and employees for national pension schemes and health insurance.
Currency Exchange
- Currency Conversion: Assistance with currency exchange and transferring funds between Bahrain and other countries.
Schooling & Education
Bahrain offers a range of international schools that cater to expatriate families. Relocation services can assist with the following:
School Search & Enrolment
- School Selection: Assistance in identifying suitable schools for expatriate children, including international schools offering curricula such as British, American, or the International Baccalaureate (IB).
- Enrolment Process: Help with the registration and application process for schools, including understanding fees, schedules, and required documentation.
After-School Activities & Programs
- Extracurricular Support: Recommendations for extracurricular programs such as sports, arts, or music that are available for children.
Settling-In Services
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, and settling-in services are essential to help expatriates adjust to life in Bahrain.
Orientation Services
- City Tours: Provide tours of Bahrain’s key areas, such as government buildings, shopping districts, and healthcare facilities, to familiarize expatriates with their new surroundings.
- Cultural Sensitivity Training: Offer cultural orientation to help expats understand the local customs, business etiquette, and lifestyle in Bahrain.
- Language Support: Assistance with learning basic Arabic, especially for daily communication. Some services may also offer translation or interpretation services.
Utilities Setup
- Electricity, Water, and Gas: Help with registering utilities in the expatriate’s name, including arranging for service connections.
- Internet & Telecommunications: Set up high-speed internet, phone lines, and mobile services in the expatriate’s name.
Transportation
- Driving License Conversion: For expatriates holding a valid international driving license, relocation services assist in converting it to a Bahraini driving license.
- Car Leasing or Purchase: Help with leasing or purchasing a vehicle, including advice on insurance options, leasing terms, and financing options.
Medical & Health Insurance
- Health Insurance: Assistance in securing appropriate health insurance, either through employer-provided plans or private insurers.
- Medical Care: Provide information on healthcare services, how to register with a local doctor, and emergency care services.
Ongoing Support Services
Even after the relocation process is complete, expatriates may need ongoing support as they settle into their new life in Bahrain.
Relocation Follow-up
– Post-Arrival Check-ins: Follow-up services to ensure that everything is in order, such as confirming that the work permit, residency, and family visas are processed.
– Problem Resolution: Help expatriates resolve any issues that arise during their relocation, such as legal concerns or issues with landlords.
Exit & Repatriation Services
– Repatriation Assistance: If expatriates need to return home or relocate to another country, relocation services can assist with exit formalities, flight bookings, and relocation logistics.
Cost of Relocation Packages
Relocation packages vary widely depending on the services offered, the size of the family, and the specific needs of the expatriate. A full-service relocation package in Bahrain may include:
– Visa and Immigration Services: Typically ranging from BHD 300 to BHD 1,000, depending on the complexity.
– Housing Search & Assistance: Fees for housing search may vary, typically around BHD 500 to BHD 2,000, depending on the type of housing and location.
– Schooling & Education Services: School application assistance may range from BHD 100 to BHD 500.
– Settling-In Services: Cost for orientation, utility setup, and other services may range from BHD 500 to BHD 1,500.
Conclusion
Relocation to Bahrain can be a smooth and efficient process when expatriates have access to the right relocation services and packages. From handling visas and permits to helping with housing, banking, healthcare, and schooling, a well-structured relocation service can save time, reduce stress, and ensure a smooth transition. By offering comprehensive support, relocation consultants can help expatriates focus on settling into their new roles and adjusting to life in Bahrain with ease.