Domestic Work Permit

Work Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

BHD 195

Stay Duration

Varies (Tied to employment contract)

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information

Overview

Work permit for household employees including drivers, babysitters, and housekeepers, sponsored by a family or individual meeting financial conditions.

The Domestic Work Permit is designed for households in Bahrain to legally sponsor and employ domestic staff, including housemaids, nannies, drivers, cooks, and gardeners. This permit is strictly regulated by the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) to ensure that the rights of household employees are protected and that employers meet specific financial and social obligations. It is intended for individuals or families who require assistance with household management and can prove the financial capacity to support such employees, including providing adequate housing, health insurance, and a fair salary as stipulated by the employment contract.

To ensure compliance, the hiring process must be conducted through licensed recruitment agencies or via direct recruitment procedures approved by the LMRA. The system mandates a formal, written employment contract that outlines working hours, rest days, and salary, which must be registered with the authorities. This structure provides a legal framework that balances the needs of the household with the welfare of the domestic worker, ensuring that all parties operate within the legal standards of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Employer must be a Bahraini citizen or a resident with a valid work/residence permit.

Employer must be at least 25 years old.

Employer must demonstrate adequate income (minimum thresholds apply).

Employer must provide suitable accommodation for the worker.

Worker must be between 21 and 55 years old.

Worker must pass a mandatory medical examination (Wafid-accredited).

Must have a signed tripartite domestic employment contract.

KEY CRITERIA

Min. Income

9,600 BHD/yr

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Vocational credentials

Medical report

Police clearance

Employment contract (sponsor)

Company registration (sponsor)

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

Streamlined digital application process via the LMRA portal.
Access to a regulated recruitment framework with agency guarantees.
Clear legal protections for both employer and employee.
Discounted rates available for senior citizen employers (60+ years).

Worth Knowing

Employer is legally responsible for the worker's health insurance and annual return ticket.
Strict adherence to working hours (max 12 hours) and mandatory rest periods is required.
Employer cannot retain the worker's passport.
Failure to comply with labor regulations can lead to penalties or permit cancellation.