When hiring a domestic worker in Bahrain, using an LMRA-licensed employment office is not just recommended — it is legally the safest option. This guide explains who the approved offices are, how to verify their status, and how to protect yourself from illegal recruitment agencies.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 📋 Official List Updated | April 1, 2026 |
| 📥 Download List | LMRA Approved Offices PDF (April 2026) |
| 📥 Supply Agencies List | LMRA Supply Agencies PDF (April 2026) |
| 📞 Verify an Office | +973 17506055 |
| 🌐 LMRA Website | lmra.gov.bh |
🏢 Types of LMRA-Approved Service Providers
📋 Employment Offices
Licensed recruitment agencies that find, recruit, and place domestic workers with Bahraini families. They handle all paperwork, tripartite contracts, and LMRA submissions.
🏭 Supply Agencies
Agencies licensed specifically to supply domestic workers (often in bulk) to families and households. They maintain a roster of available workers.
❌ Cancelled Offices
LMRA publishes a list of cancelled or revoked employment office licences. Always check this list to avoid dealing with unlicensed operators.
✅ Why You Must Use a Licensed Office
- 🛡️ Legal protection — licensed offices are bound by LMRA regulations
- 🔄 Replacement guarantee — if the worker fails to perform, the office must replace or refund
- 📋 Tripartite contract — mandatory legal document protecting all parties
- 🚫 No exploitation — licensed offices cannot charge workers illegal fees
- ✅ Work permit validity — LMRA only processes permits through approved channels
📥 How to Get the Official List
Call +973 17506055 to confirm an office's current licensed status.
Always cross-check against the List of Cancelled Employment Offices before proceeding.
⚠️ Red Flags — Illegal Recruitment in Bahrain
❌ Never deal with:
- Agencies operating without an LMRA licence
- Recruiters advertising on social media without verified licences
- Anyone promising to bring workers "without documents"
- Agencies demanding full payment before producing the Tripartite Contract
- Offices not appearing on the LMRA approved list
🚨 Report suspected illegal recruitment to LMRA at +973 17506055 or through the LMRA website.
📍 LMRA Branches
🏛️ 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
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How often does LMRA update the list of approved employment offices?
LMRA updates the approved offices list periodically — typically every 1-3 months. Always download the most recent version from the LMRA website before choosing an office.
Can I hire a maid directly without using an employment office?
Yes — direct recruitment is allowed. However, you must still apply for an LMRA work permit, complete the medical exam, and submit the Employer Undertaking Form. A Tripartite Contract is not required for direct hires.
What happens if I use an unlicensed employment office?
Your work permit application will be rejected by LMRA. You may also face legal liability and financial loss with no recourse against the unlicensed operator.
How do I file a complaint against a licensed employment office?
Complaints can be filed through the LMRA Complaint Against Employment Office service online or at any LMRA branch.
🏠 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 — Updated 2026. Always verify the latest requirements at lmra.gov.bh.