If a domestic worker in your household stops reporting to work and cannot be contacted, Bahrain law gives employers the right to file an official Absence from Work Notification through LMRA. This guide explains when and how to file, your legal obligations, and what happens after the report is submitted.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 📋 Service Name | Domestic Employee Absence from Work Notification |
| 🌐 File Online | lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web |
| 📞 LMRA Contact | +973 17506055 |
| ⚠️ Legal Effect | Worker is flagged in Bahrain immigration system |
⚠️ When Should You File an Absence Notification?
- ✅ Domestic worker has left the household without notice
- ✅ Worker has been absent for more than 7 consecutive days without contact
- ✅ Worker cannot be reached by phone or through their family
- ✅ Worker has moved out without your knowledge
⚠️ Why report promptly? As long as the work permit is active in your name, you remain the legal sponsor and may be held responsible for the worker's actions in Bahrain. Filing an absence notification officially transfers responsibility to LMRA.
📋 How to File the Absence Notification
Navigate to "Domestic Employee Absence from Work Notification".
Enter the worker's permit number, passport number, and date of absence.
Application is flagged in the LMRA system and immigration database.
✅ What Happens After the Report?
- 🔴 The domestic worker is flagged in Bahrain immigration systems
- 📋 LMRA officially records the employer's non-responsibility
- 🛂 If the worker tries to exit Bahrain, they may be detained for investigation
- 💼 The employer may still need to formally cancel the work permit through LMRA
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Am I still responsible for a domestic worker who has absconded?
Until you file an official Absence Notification with LMRA and cancel the work permit, you may still be held partly responsible as the legal sponsor.
Can I get a replacement worker after filing the absence report?
Yes — after filing and permit cancellation, you can apply for a new domestic worker work permit through LMRA.
What if the worker returns after I filed the report?
If the domestic worker returns, you can withdraw the absence notification through LMRA. You should discuss the situation and may choose to continue or terminate the employment contract formally.
Does filing an absence notification cancel the work permit automatically?
No — the absence notification and work permit cancellation are two separate processes. You must file both through LMRA EMS.
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📌 Source: LMRA Bahrain Official Website — Updated 2026. Always verify the latest requirements at lmra.gov.bh.