Bahrain's Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) has announced the launch of electronic services for domestic employee permits, which gives employers the ability to complete transactions electronically through the Expatriate Management System (EMS) without the need to visit the authority, while maintaining the option to apply in person at any of its branches for those who wish to do so.
Nibras Talib, CEO of the LMRA, stated that adopting electronic services for domestic employee permits comes as part of the authority's commitment to continuously enhance the quality of services provided, in line with the government’s efforts in streamlining government relate processes, a Bahrain News Agency report said.
The CEO pointed out that employers – in the case of direct employment– will be able to complete all operations related to domestic employees through the Expatriate Management System (EMS) using the Advanced e-Key issued by the Information & eGovernment Authority. Employers will be able to apply for the issuance, renewal, or termination of work permits, apply to increase the ceiling of Domestic Employees, as well as change the profession of a domestic worker.
In addition, employers can electronically approve requests submitted by domestic employee recruitment offices and pay fees using debit or credit cards.
Employers will also be able to monitor the progress of their transactions related to Domestic Employees, view the list of workers under their record, access related data (expiration date of the work permit; legal status), among other services related to Domestic Employees.
These enhancements come as part of LMRA’s process re-engineering initiatives and shift towards digitalization of its services. It’s noteworthy to mention that the authority previously streamlined the process of applying for domestic employee permits through licensed employment offices, where these offices are able to electronically complete all related transactions without the need to visit any of the relevant government entities, the report said.
