Bahraini employers whose income does not meet the standard threshold for an additional domestic worker can apply for a Temporary Ceiling Increase through LMRA Bahrain. This service allows you to hire an extra domestic employee on a temporary basis with a formal pledge about the worker's future status.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 👤 For | Bahraini (national) employers |
| ⏱️ Processing Time | 2 working days |
| 🌐 Apply Online | lmra.gov.bh/EMS_Web |
| 📞 Contact | +973 17506055 |
📋 What is a Temporary Ceiling Increase?
A Temporary Ceiling Increase allows a Bahraini employer to temporarily exceed their standard domestic worker permit quota when their income does not qualify for a permanent additional permit. The employer must formally pledge that the domestic worker will either transfer to another employer or depart Bahrain by a specified date.
📋 Required Documents (Online)
- Salary certificate (if not available from Social Insurance Organization)
- Bank statement — last 3 months minimum
- ID cards for all family members OR family card (copy)
- Employer's pledge to employ the domestic worker within Bahrain only
📋 Additional Documents (Walk-In)
- Ceiling Increase Request for Domestic Workers Form (original)
- All documents listed above
- Employer ID card with signature
🔄 How to Apply
Choose the "Bahraini Employer" ceiling increase option.
Salary certificate, bank statement, family IDs, and pledge.
LMRA processes and notifies you within 2 working days.
Once approved, apply for the domestic worker work permit through EMS.
📍 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 is the temporary ceiling different from a permanent one?
The temporary ceiling is for cases where your income doesn't fully qualify for an additional permit. You must pledge the worker will depart or transfer by a set date, unlike the permanent ceiling which has no such restriction.
Can I renew a temporary ceiling?
Yes — if circumstances haven't changed, you can apply to extend the temporary ceiling arrangement through LMRA.
What income proof is needed?
A salary certificate from your employer or the SIO is required, plus 3 months of bank statements showing your actual income.
🏠 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.