In the past few months, we have seen letters to the editor raising concerns about the challenges in securing appointments for multiple entry visa applications for expatriates. It is very encouraging to see the authorities respond to these issues.
I would like to highlight another factor contributing to the surge in multiple entry visa applications. Currently expatriates earning less than BND1,500 per month are being granted only three-month multiple entry visas, despite holding two-year work permits. As a result, these individuals are required to renew their visas every three months, placing an extra burden on both the immigration authorities and the expatriates.
The situation is particularly challenging for those with critically-ill relatives in their home countries, as frequent visa renewals create additional stress, especially for those who may need to travel on short notice. I thus urge the authorities to reconsider issuing one-year multiple entry visas for all expatriates, as was previously the practice. This change would reduce the workload for immigration offices, as fewer visa renewals would be needed, and significantly alleviate the stress for expatriates. It would also offer cost and time savings for all parties involved, improving the overall quality of life for expatriates who may require frequent travel due to emergencies.
A Concerned Expatriate
