Can I hire a domestic worker directly in Bahrain without going through an employment office?

Yes. The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) says you can recruit directly or through an approved employment office, and warns against using unauthorised agencies or middlemen. Applying yourself · You can apply for a domestic worker's work permit yourself through LMRA's Expat Management System (EMS) using your Advanced eKey, or at any LMRA branch. · No permit can be processed without your consent. You confirm it in person at the Authority, with your eKey, or by signing a self-certification with two copies of your ID. Fees and contract · LMRA says there are no monthly fees for domestic workers. Issuing fees are listed on its Fees page. · A tripartite employment contract is needed only when the application goes through an employment office. After the worker arrives · You get an SMS on the mobile number registered with LMRA. · The worker then needs an ID card from the Information & eGovernment Authority, biometrics, and a medical examination. · Permits can be renewed for 6 months, 1 year or 2 years through EMS. · LMRA's call centre is +973 17506055. It publishes a list of approved employment offices, updated every two weeks. Steps · Decide whether to recruit directly or through an LMRA-approved employment office (check LMRA's list). · Apply for the work permit through EMS with your Advanced eKey, or at an LMRA branch. · Pay the issuing fee shown on LMRA's Fees page. · When the worker arrives, arrange the ID card, biometrics and medical examination. · Renew through EMS for 6 months, 1 year or 2 years before the permit ends.

Domestic workers in Bahrain

Can I hire a domestic worker directly in Bahrain without going through an employment office? — Yes. The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) says you can recruit directly or through an approved employment office, and warns against using unauthorised

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