Expatriate employers who hired a domestic worker in Bahrain paid a BHD 500 financial guarantee to LMRA. The good news is this deposit is fully refundable once the domestic worker's work permit is cancelled and they have departed Bahrain. This guide shows you exactly how to claim it back.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 💰 Refund Amount | BHD 500 financial guarantee |
| 👤 Who Qualifies | Expatriate (non-GCC, non-Bahraini) employers |
| 📋 When Can You Apply | After work permit cancellation + worker departure |
| 🌐 Apply Online | lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web |
| 📞 Contact | +973 17506055 |
💰 What is the BHD 500 Financial Guarantee?
When an expatriate employer (non-Bahraini, non-GCC) applies for a domestic worker work permit in Bahrain, LMRA requires a BHD 500 financial guarantee in addition to the standard work permit fees. This deposit is held by LMRA as security and is fully refundable when the employment relationship ends properly.
✅ Conditions to Get Your Refund
- ✅ The domestic worker's work permit has been officially cancelled through LMRA
- ✅ The domestic worker has exited Bahrain
- ✅ No outstanding violations or legal issues associated with the permit
- ✅ Application submitted within the allowed timeframe
📋 Required Documents for Refund
- 📄 Permit cancellation confirmation from LMRA
- 🛂 Proof of worker's departure from Bahrain (exit record)
- 🪪 Employer's ID card
- 🏦 Bank account details for the refund transfer
🔄 How to Apply for the Refund
First complete the work permit cancellation through LMRA EMS.
Ensure the worker's exit is recorded in Bahrain immigration system.
Login to lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web and select "Domestic Deposit Refund".
Attach required documents including cancellation confirmation and departure proof.
Refund processed to your registered bank account after LMRA verification.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do GCC resident employers get the BHD 500 deposit refund?
No — the BHD 500 financial guarantee only applies to expatriate (non-GCC, non-Bahraini) employers. GCC nationals and Bahraini citizens do not pay this deposit and are therefore not eligible for a refund.
How long does the refund take?
LMRA typically processes deposit refund applications within 5-10 working days after submission and verification of all documents.
What if the domestic worker absconded — can I still get the refund?
If you filed an official Absence from Work Notification and cancelled the permit, you may still be eligible for a partial refund. Contact LMRA at +973 17506055 for case-specific guidance.
Is there a deadline to apply for the deposit refund?
LMRA recommends applying for the deposit refund within 90 days of the permit cancellation date. Contact LMRA for extensions if needed.
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📌 Source: LMRA Bahrain Official Website — Updated 2026. Always verify the latest requirements at lmra.gov.bh.