Stricter verification requirements for expat accountants and auditors in Bahrain

At a glance

• Members of Parliament in Bahrain are advocating for more stringent verification processes for expatriate accountants and auditors before work visas are granted.
• This initiative aims to address concerns about unqualified individuals being hired due to inadequate verification.
• Verification of credentials, upholding the current professional standards, industry specific regulation and a centralised system are all proposed. 

Members of Parliament in Bahrain are advocating for more stringent verification processes for expatriate accountants and auditors before work visas are granted. This initiative aims to address concerns about unqualified individuals being hired due to inadequate verification. Key points include:

• Verification of credentials: The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) is urged to verify academic credentials and work experience before approving work permits for expatriate accountants and auditors.
• Current system: The LMRA maintains that its current system upholds professional standards, with work permit applications undergoing a process applicable to all professions.
• Industry-specific regulation: The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry suggests that qualification verification should be managed by industry-specific regulators rather than the LMRA.
• Centralised system: There is support for connecting licensing authorities to a central system and implementing stricter rules on skills certification before businesses can register.
• Public interest: The Services Committee has recommended the approval of this proposal, stating that it serves the public interest by preventing unqualified individuals from occupying skilled positions.

These measures are intended to enhance the integrity of the accounting and auditing professions in Bahrain and ensure that only qualified individuals are granted work permits. For more detailed information, please refer to the official statements and guidelines issued by the relevant authorities.