my friend, here is what i know:

- normally it takes a month to two months to complete all rp formalities. the time frame depends on the urgency and efficiency of the co and pro.

- if your present sponsor and work visa sponsor are the same, then you dont need to exit country. but if they are different, you may have to exit and re-enter. normally for this companies send you to Bahrain.

- once rp processing starts, you cannot exit country until its completed. companies can get excemption on your stay based on the reason that it is in process.

- so normally companies start processing rp after making sure you can get it stamped before your present visa expires.

if your company has not commenced rp work yet, i guess they intend to do one more exit-entry for you. better keep following up with your pro. some guys "expects" :-)you to pester them always to get things done.

good luck. hope this helps.