Member News

Middle East and North Africa Region
Foreign nationals and their employers can expect immigration processing delays over the coming weeks in the Middle East and North Africa due to the observance of Eid-al-Adha, in addition to disruptions and delays already caused by the COVID-19 pandemic (please visit our dedicated microsite https://www.fragomen.com/about/news/immigration-update-coronavirus for more details and for additional insights on this fluid situation)

United Arab Emirates
The Cabinet of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has issued a decision that revokes several concessions related to the residence status, including an automatic extension of validity of residence permits and Emirates Identity Cards that expired on or after March 1, 2020, announced earlier this year. The impact of the decision depends on the emirate and the category of immigration permit.

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The National Authority for Emergency and Crisis and Disaster Management and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation have confirmed the addition of new travel requirements for all travellers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The new rules affect all inbound and transit passengers in the UAE who now must present a COVID-19 test prior to flying to/through the UAE and show they are Covid-19 free before boarding their plane.

Bahrain
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) announced a new process for transfer of sponsorship of foreign national employees in Bahrain, applicable temporarily from July 1 until September 30, 2020. The new process requires the employer to cancel the current work visa before the new employer can apply for a new work authorization. The new employer must reimburse the previous sponsor with all government fees for the remainder of the work visa validity. Employers can calculate the exact amount that has to be reimbursed by submitting a ticket through the LMRA electronic portal. Previously, the transfer of employment sponsorship did not require a formal visa cancellation.

About Fragomen
Fragomen is the world’s leading single-focus provider of immigration services and support. Our firm is comprised of law practices and immigration consultancies that work together to support our clients across all regions globally. At Fragomen, we leverage our collective immigration experience to offer clients targeted and trusted solutions that help them achieve their local, regional and worldwide business goals.

Fragomen’s team of dedicated immigration professionals has extensive experience in working with multinational businesses, local employers, start-ups and individual investors. We have a deep understanding of the region and maintain strong professional relationships with immigration authorities. Our MENA immigration team is supported on a global basis by over 3,800 immigration professionals in more than 50 offices worldwide. Together, we provide comprehensive immigration support in over 170 countries.

All we do is immigration, a sole focus that makes a considerable difference. Unlike many other providers, all of our thinking, passion and resources are dedicated to improving the immigration experiences of our clients and their employees. We have the track record, region specific experience and know-how to provide you with a streamlined and compliant immigration solution.

Visit our website www.fragomen.com or contact us at dubaiinfo@fragomen.com to learn more about our company and services.