Visa Regulations for Entering Bahrain:
- Citizens of the GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE) do not require a visa for entry into Bahrain.
- For other nationalities, a visa is required for stays of more than 14 days, and the visa must be obtained prior to arrival in Bahrain.
- Visitors must hold a valid passport with at least six months validity and sufficient funds to cover their stay.
- Visitors may also need to provide proof of onward travel and accommodation details.
Types of visas available in Bahrain:
Tourist visa: issued for tourism purposes and is valid for up to 3 months with multiple entries allowed.
Business visa: issued for business travelers and is valid for up to 3 months with multiple entries allowed.
Work visa: issued for those seeking employment in Bahrain and is valid for up to 2 years.
Residence visa: issued for those who have a job offer in Bahrain or are dependents of a work visa holder and is valid for up to 2 years.
Visa Exemptions in Bahrain:
- Citizens of GCC countries do not require a visa for entry into Bahrain.
- Visitors from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most European countries can enter Bahrain visa-free for up to 14 days.
Relationship Between Visas and Residency in Bahrain:
A work visa or residence visa is required for those seeking employment or to live in Bahrain. The validity of the visa is linked to the validity of the residency permit, which must be renewed annually.
Reliable Information on Visas for Entry Into Bahrain:
- Official website of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior Immigration and Passports Directorate: http://www.moi.gov.bh/
- Official website of the Bahrain Economic Development Board: https://www.bahrainedb.com/visa-and-immigration/
- The Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the United States: https://www.bahrainembassy.org/Visas.aspx
Visitors to Bahrain require a visa to enter the country unless they are from a visa-exempt country, or they are eligible for a visa on arrival. To apply for a visa, you should do so in advance of your trip and typically at least 2-3 weeks before your departure.
To apply for a visa, you can visit the Embassy of Bahrain in your home country or apply online through the eVisa portal. On the eVisa portal, you will need to complete an application form, pay the visa fee, and upload the required supporting documents.
Links to relevant forms:
- eVisa application form: https://www.evisa.gov.bh/
Relevant Authorities:
- Embassy of Bahrain: https://bh.usembassy.gov/
- Bahrain eVisa portal: https://www.evisa.gov.bh/
Where to Apply for a Visa for Bahrain
For US citizens, the Embassy of Bahrain is located in Washington D.C.
For UK citizens, the Embassy of Bahrain is located in London.
Consulates for US and UK expats:
- Embassy of Bahrain in Washington D.C.: https://bh.usembassy.gov/
- Embassy of Bahrain in London: https://bh.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/london/
What documents to provide to apply for a visa for Bahrain?
To apply for a visa to enter Bahrain, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A completed eVisa application form
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining
- A passport-sized photo
- Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in Bahrain
- A return or onward ticket
- Hotel booking confirmation or a letter of invitation from a sponsor in Bahrain
- Health insurance coverage
Translations are necessary if the documents are not in English or Arabic.
Additional information:
- For more information on the required documents, you can visit the Embassy of Bahrain website or the eVisa portal.
Visa Application Processing Time for Bahrain
The processing time for a visa to enter Bahrain can vary, but it typically takes 3-5 working days. If you are applying for a visa through the eVisa portal, you can track the status of your application online.
Visa Application Cost for Bahrain?
The cost of a visa for Bahrain depends on the type of visa you require and the duration of your stay. A single-entry visa for a 30-day stay costs BHD 20 (approximately USD 53). The cost of a multiple-entry visa or a visa for a longer stay will be higher. The visa fee can be paid online using a credit or debit card when applying through the eVisa portal.
Associated Costs
In addition to the visa fee, you may need to pay for other expenses, such as health insurance, flights, accommodation, and travel expenses during your stay in Bahrain.