Bahrain Explores Linking Expats’ Driving License With Residence Permit
The lawmakers in Bahrain are set to deliberate a proposal to reduce the validity of expatriates’ driving licenses to align them with their residence permits’ validity.
Led by Jalal Kadhem, five MPs have tabled the amendment to the 2014 Traffic Law, asserting it would address violations by expats overstaying post-work permit expiration and engaging in unauthorized work, notably driving unlicensed taxis.
Advocates of the amendment believe this measure could address traffic congestion, curbing the number of licenses issued. Presently, both Bahrainis and expatriates are granted five-year driving permits but the amendment seeks to make it more tight.
The proposal enjoys support from the Parliament’s foreign affairs, defense, and national security committee but faces opposition from Bahrain’s Interior Ministry, which urges MPs to reject it.
In response to concerns about human rights implications, the National Institution for Human Rights (NIHR) assured that the proposal doesn’t block expat movement or infringe upon their rights. It clarified that the measure is purely organizational and doesn’t violate equality or international human rights conventions.
