If you are a GCC resident living in Bahrain and your income does not meet the standard threshold to sponsor an additional domestic worker, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) offers a dedicated service to help you increase your domestic worker quota — temporarily. This complete guide covers everything you need to know.
⚡ Quick Summary
| 🏛️ Authority | LMRA — Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Bahrain |
| 📋 Service | Temporary Domestic Employees Ceiling Application Increase |
| 👤 Who Can Apply | GCC nationals residing in Bahrain |
| ⏱️ Processing Time | 2 working days |
| 🌐 Apply Online | EMS System — lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web |
| 📞 Contact | +973 17506055 |
| 🔄 Last Updated | 02 February 2026 |
🏛️ What is the LMRA Domestic Worker Ceiling Increase Service?
The Temporary Domestic Employees Ceiling Application Increase is an official LMRA Bahrain service that allows a GCC resident employer in Bahrain to apply for an increase in their permitted number of domestic worker work permits — even when their income does not meet the standard eligibility requirement for hiring an additional domestic employee.
This is a temporary ceiling increase, meaning the additional permit is granted on condition that the employer commits to either transferring the domestic worker to another employer or ensuring the worker leaves Bahrain by a specified date.
💡 Important: The employer must formally pledge that the domestic employee will either be transferred to another employer or will depart the Kingdom of Bahrain before a stated deadline.
👤 Who Can Apply?
This service is designed specifically for GCC national employers who are residents of Bahrain. The application can be submitted by:
- ✅ The employer directly
- ✅ A 1st degree relative with an official power of attorney
- ✅ An authorized clearance office or employment office
- ✅ Through an electronic authorization
✅ Key condition: Both the employer and their family must be resident in the Kingdom of Bahrain at the time of application.
👷 Eligible Domestic Worker Categories
The ceiling increase applies to the following officially recognized domestic employee categories under LMRA Bahrain:
👨 Male Categories
- 🍳 Cook
- 🍴 Cook (Assistant)
- 🏠 Cook (Private Houses)
- 🥂 Waiter (Private Service)
- 🚗 Private Chauffeur
- 👤 Servant
- ⛵ Yachtsman
- 🏢 Concierge in Private Residence
- 🌿 Gardener (House)
👩 Female Categories
- 🍳 Cook
- 🍴 Cook (Assistant)
- 🏠 Cook (Private Houses)
- 🥂 Waiter (Private Service)
- 🚗 Private Chauffeur
- 🏠 Housemaid
- 👶 Nursemaid
📋 Required Documents
🌐 For Online Applications (EMS System)
Required if salary data is not already available electronically from the Social Insurance Organization (SIO). Must include a bank statement showing income for the past 3 months minimum.
Copies of ID cards for every family member, OR a copy of the Family Card.
At least two identity documents, signed no longer than 30 days before submitting the application. Required only when applying through recruitment offices or clearance agencies.
A signed pledge confirming the domestic employee will be employed within Bahrain only.
🏢 Additional Documents for Walk-In Applications
The official LMRA form must be completed and submitted as an original document. Available for download from the LMRA website.
Or any document identifying the employer, including their signature.
If applying through a representative — any document proving identity with signature.
🔄 How to Apply — Step by Step
🌐 Online via EMS (Expat Management System)
Visit lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web and log in with your credentials.
Complete all required fields and upload the necessary documents in the designated sections.
Once submitted, you will receive a unique Application ID. Your application will be sent for verification.
Check application status by logging into EMS or by calling +973 17506055.
Once approved, proceed to apply for a new domestic employee work permit through LMRA.
🏢 In-Person Walk-In Application
Use the LMRA Appointment Management System (AMS) to schedule your visit.
The employer or authorized representative must attend in person at the selected branch.
Hand over all required original and copy documents to the LMRA officer.
Upon approval, apply for the new domestic worker work permit immediately.
⏱️ Processing Time
The LMRA processes Temporary Domestic Employees Ceiling Increase applications within 2 working days from the date of submission (subject to complete documentation).
📍 LMRA Branch Locations & Hours
LMRA Main Office — Sanabis
📅 Sunday – Thursday
🕐 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Seef Mall — Al Muharraq
📅 Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📅 Sunday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
📞 LMRA Contact Information
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if my salary is below the standard LMRA threshold?
Yes — this service is specifically designed for cases where income does not meet the standard permit requirement. You will need to submit a salary certificate and bank statements covering the last 3 months.
Can I send someone else to apply on my behalf?
Yes. A 1st degree relative with official power of attorney, an authorized clearance office, employment office, or an electronic authorization can all apply on your behalf.
Is this a permanent increase in my domestic worker quota?
No — this is a temporary increase. You must pledge that the domestic worker will either transfer to another employer or depart Bahrain by a specified date.
How long does the approval take?
LMRA processes this application within 2 working days from the date of complete submission.
Can GCC residents apply online?
Yes — GCC resident employers can apply fully online through the LMRA Expat Management System (EMS) at lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web.
Which domestic worker categories are covered?
The service covers all standard domestic categories including housemaids, nursemaids, cooks, private chauffeurs, gardeners, waiters, concierges, and yachtsmen.
🏠 Looking to Hire a Domestic Worker in Bahrain?
GCC Domestic connects families across Bahrain with LMRA-verified domestic worker agencies. Browse certified agencies, compare packages, and contact directly via WhatsApp — zero commission.
📌 Source: LMRA Bahrain Official Website — Last updated 02 February 2026. Always verify the latest requirements directly with LMRA before applying.
