Navigating Bahrain VISA Portal and Policies with Travel Guidelines
Bahrain maintains a clear and traveler-friendly visa and travel policy framework designed to encourage tourism, business, and international mobility while ensuring border security. Foreign nationals planning to visit the Kingdom of Bahrain must obtain an appropriate visa based on the purpose and duration of their stay, such as tourist, business, family visit, or work. Bahrain offers multiple visa application options, including eVisa services and visas on arrival for eligible nationalities, making the process efficient and accessible. Applicants are generally required to hold a valid passport, proof of accommodation, return or onward travel tickets, and sufficient financial means, with additional documentation depending on the visa category.
Bahrain Visa Types
Tourist Visa
Bahrain offers several types of tourist visas for visitors:
- 14-Day Visa: Single entry visa valid for 2 weeks from date of issue
- 30-Day Visa: Single or multiple entry visa valid for 1 month
- 90-Day Visa: Extended stay visa for tourism purposes
- eVisa: Electronic visa available for eligible nationalities through online application
- Visa on Arrival: Available for citizens of eligible countries at Bahrain International Airport
Business Visa
Designed for individuals traveling to Bahrain for business activities:
- Short-Term Business Visa: Valid for meetings, conferences, and short business activities (up to 30 days)
- Long-Term Business Visa: For extended business projects and assignments (up to 90 days)
- Investor Visa: For individuals exploring investment opportunities in Bahrain
- Company-Sponsored Visa: Requires sponsorship from a Bahrain-registered company
Work Visa & Residence Permits
For foreign nationals employed in Bahrain:
- Work Visa: Must be sponsored by a Bahraini employer, valid for 1-2 years
- Dependent Residence Visa: For spouses and children of work visa holders
- Investor Residence Permit: For business investors meeting specific capital requirements
- Golden Residency Visa: Long-term residency for high-net-worth individuals and specialized professionals
Student & Other Visas
Special category visas for specific purposes:
- Student Visa: For individuals enrolled in accredited Bahraini educational institutions
- Family Visit Visa: For visiting relatives residing in Bahrain
- Medical Visa: For individuals seeking medical treatment in Bahraini facilities
- Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Bahrain with confirmed onward tickets
Visa Exemptions
Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days:
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries
- United Kingdom
- United States
- European Union member states
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
Visa Fee Structure
Bahrain visa fees vary based on visa type, duration, and processing time. The following table outlines current standard fees (in Bahraini Dinars – BHD):
| Visa Type | Duration | Standard Fee (BHD) | Express Fee (BHD) | Multiple Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | 14 Days | 5 | 10 | No |
| Tourist Visa | 30 Days | 25 | 40 | Optional (+15 BHD) |
| Tourist Visa | 90 Days | 50 | 75 | Optional (+25 BHD) |
| Business Visa | 30 Days | 40 | 60 | Optional (+20 BHD) |
| Business Visa | 90 Days | 80 | 110 | Optional (+30 BHD) |
| Work Visa | 1 Year | 200 | 300 | N/A |
| Family Visit Visa | 30 Days | 20 | 35 | No |
| Student Visa | 1 Year | 50 | 80 | N/A |
Additional Fee Information
- Visa on Arrival fee: 5 BHD for two-week stay, 25 BHD for one-month stay
- eVisa processing fee: Same as standard visa fees with 2 BHD service charge
- Visa extension fees: 25 BHD for each 30-day extension (maximum 3 extensions)
- Overstay fines: 10 BHD per day after visa expiration
- All fees are non-refundable regardless of visa approval status
- Fees are subject to change without prior notice
Visa Application Process
The Bahrain visa application process varies by visa type and applicant’s nationality. Below are the general steps for obtaining a Bahrain visa:
Determine Visa Type
Identify the correct visa category based on your purpose of visit and duration of stay.
Check Eligibility
Verify if your nationality requires a visa or is eligible for visa on arrival/eVisa.
Prepare Documents
Gather all required documentation based on your selected visa type.
Submit Application
Apply online (eVisa), at embassy/consulate, or through authorized agents.
Pay Fees
Pay the applicable visa fees through approved payment methods.
Processing Time
Wait for processing (typically 3-7 business days, express 24-48 hours).
Receive Visa
Collect your visa or receive electronic approval via email.
Travel to Bahrain
Present your visa and passport at Bahrain port of entry.
Required Documents
General documents required for most Bahrain visa applications:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Recent passport-sized photographs (white background)
- Proof of accommodation in Bahrain (hotel booking/invitation)
- Return flight tickets or travel itinerary
- Proof of sufficient funds for the stay
- Travel insurance covering Bahrain (for some visa types)
- Additional documents may be required based on visa category
Regulatory Policies
Immigration Regulations
- All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of entry
- Visitors must not have any criminal record or be listed on immigration watchlists
- Overstaying visa validity is a serious offense with fines and potential bans
- Working on a tourist visa is strictly prohibited and can lead to deportation
- Visa holders must abide by Bahraini laws and cultural norms during their stay
- Change of visa status within Bahrain requires approval from the Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA)
Security & Compliance
- All visa applications undergo security screening
- Biometric data (fingerprints) may be collected at port of entry
- Visitors from certain countries may require additional security clearances
- Medical screening (including COVID-19 requirements) may apply based on current health regulations
- Visa holders must register with local authorities if staying longer than 30 days
- Failure to comply with immigration regulations may result in visa cancellation and future entry bans
Restrictions & Prohibitions
- Citizens of Israel are generally not permitted entry except with special authorization
- Individuals with passports indicating travel to Israel may face additional scrutiny
- Importation of prohibited items including narcotics, weapons, and certain religious materials
- Visitors must respect local customs, dress codes, and public behavior expectations
- Photography of government buildings, military installations, and certain public areas is restricted
Traveling Policies & Requirements
Entry Requirements
- Valid visa or eligibility for visa on arrival
- Passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Confirmed return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation for the duration of stay
- Sufficient funds to cover expenses during stay (minimum 300 BHD for one month)
- Health requirements as per current regulations (vaccination certificates, COVID-19 tests if applicable)
- Travel insurance is recommended for all visitors
During Your Stay
- Always carry passport or a copy of passport with visa page
- Register with local police if staying in private accommodation for more than 30 days
- Notify NPRA of any change in address during extended stays
- Respect local laws, customs, and religious practices
- Dress modestly in public areas, especially during religious observances
- Alcohol consumption is permitted only in licensed establishments for non-Muslims
- Public displays of affection should be minimal
Departure Requirements
- Settle any outstanding fines or legal obligations before departure
- Return any residency cards or permits if applicable
- Clear any customs declarations if carrying goods above allowance
- Arrive at airport at least 3 hours before international flights
- Pay departure tax if included in ticket (usually included in airfare)
- Keep copies of entry/exit stamps for future visa applications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of visas are available for Bahrain?+
- Tourist Visa: For leisure and sightseeing.
- Business Visa: For meetings, conferences, and short-term business activities.
- eVisa: Online visa available for eligible nationalities.
- Visa on Arrival: Granted to select passport holders at entry points.
- Work & Residence Visa: For employment and long-term stay.
What documents are required for a Bahrain visa?+
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Completed visa application (online or embassy)
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel reservation or sponsor details
- Bank statement or financial proof
How much does a Bahrain visa cost?+
Visa fees depend on type and duration:
- Single-entry tourist visa
- Multiple-entry visa
- Short-term and long-term stay options
How long does Bahrain visa processing take?+
- eVisa: 3–5 working days
- Embassy visa: 7–15 working days
Is an appointment required for a Bahrain visa?+
No appointment is required for eVisa applications. Embassy applications may require a scheduled visit depending on location.
How long can I stay in Bahrain with a tourist visa?+
Stay duration varies by visa type, usually ranging from 14 days to 90 days.
Can I extend my Bahrain visa?+
Yes, visa extensions are possible in certain cases and must be applied for before expiry through Bahraini authorities.
Can I work in Bahrain on a tourist visa?+
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. A valid work permit and residence visa are required.
What are common reasons for Bahrain visa rejection?+
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Insufficient financial proof
- Invalid travel history
- Security or immigration concerns
Where do I apply for a Bahrain visa?+
You can apply via:
- Official Bahrain eVisa portal
- Bahrain Embassy or Consulate
Quick Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tourist Visa: For leisure and sightseeing.
- Business Visa: For meetings, conferences, and short-term business activities.
- eVisa: Online visa available for eligible nationalities.
- Visa on Arrival: Granted to select passport holders at entry points.
- Work & Residence Visa: For employment and long-term stay.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Completed visa application (online or embassy)
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel reservation or sponsor details
- Bank statement or financial proof
Visa fees depend on type and duration:
- Single-entry tourist visa
- Multiple-entry visa
- Short-term and long-term stay options
- eVisa: 3–5 working days
- Embassy visa: 7–15 working days
No appointment is required for eVisa applications. Embassy applications may require a scheduled visit depending on location.
Stay duration varies by visa type, usually ranging from 14 days to 90 days.
Yes, visa extensions are possible in certain cases and must be applied for before expiry through Bahraini authorities.
No. Employment is strictly prohibited on a tourist visa. A valid work permit and residence visa are required.
- Incomplete or incorrect documents
- Insufficient financial proof
- Invalid travel history
- Security or immigration concerns
You can apply via:
- Official Bahrain eVisa portal
- Bahrain Embassy or Consulate
Note: Bahrain visa policies may change. Always verify details from official government sources.