Bahrain

Streamlined Entry to the Pearl of the Gulf

Whether you're planning to explore Bahrain's ancient Dilmun civilization sites, establish business connections in Manama's thriving financial district, or pursue academic opportunities, navigating the Kingdom's visa requirements demands precision and expertise.

Professional Immigration Guidance

Bahrain maintains a progressive visa policy designed to welcome international visitors while ensuring compliance with Gulf Cooperation Council standards. Our specialized team transforms complex documentation processes into clear, manageable pathways tailored to your specific travel objectives.

Comprehensive Service Framework

From tourist visa applications for experiencing the Bahrain Grand Prix to business visa processing for Gulf market expansion, we provide authoritative guidance across all visa categories. Our expert consultation services address the unique requirements facing different traveler profiles.

Strategic positioning as the Gulf's business hub makes Bahrain an essential destination for professionals, while its rich cultural heritage attracts discerning travelers seeking authentic Arabian experiences.

Whether you need a visa for Bahrain depends on your nationality and travel purpose. Bahrain offers visa-free access and visa on arrival for many countries, making it relatively accessible for international travelers.

Visa-Free Access (14-30 Days)

GCC Countries: Citizens of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar can enter visa-free for up to 90 days with valid national ID or passport.

30-Day Visa-Free: Nationals from Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, South Korea can stay up to 30 days without a visa.

14-Day Visa-Free: Citizens of Turkey receive 14 days visa-free access for tourism purposes.

Visa on Arrival

Most Western countries qualify for visa on arrival, including:

• European Union citizens (all 27 member states)
• United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
• United Kingdom and British territories
• Japan, South Korea, Singapore
• Russia, China (with restrictions)

Visa on arrival typically costs 5-25 BHD depending on duration (1-14 days available).

Advance Visa Required

Citizens from most African, South Asian, and some Middle Eastern countries must obtain visas in advance through Bahraini embassies or the eVisa system.

Essential Requirements

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date
• Confirmed return ticket or onward travel
• Sufficient funds for stay
• Hotel reservation or sponsor letter

Transit Passengers

Transit passengers staying under 8 hours in the airport typically don't need visas. For longer layovers or leaving the airport, visa requirements apply based on nationality.

Official Verification: Always check current requirements through Bahrain's eVisa portal or your nearest Bahraini embassy, as policies change frequently.

Bahrain offers multiple visa categories designed to accommodate diverse travel purposes, from short-term tourism to long-term employment opportunities. Understanding the specific requirements and validity periods for each visa type ensures proper application submission and seamless entry.

Tourist and Visitor Visas

Tourist visas are available in single-entry and multiple-entry formats, with validity periods ranging from 14 days to 3 months. Electronic visa applications typically process within 2-3 business days, while airport arrivals may qualify for visa-on-arrival services.

• Short-term tourist visa (14-30 days)
• Extended tourist visa (up to 3 months)
• Multiple-entry tourist visa (6-12 months validity)

Business and Commercial Visas

Business visas cater to commercial activities, conferences, and professional meetings. These visas require sponsor documentation and business invitation letters, with processing times of 3-5 business days.

Work and Employment Visas

Employment-based visas necessitate labor market approval and employment contracts. Categories include skilled worker visas, executive permits, and specialized professional classifications with validity periods up to 2 years.

Student and Academic Visas

Educational visas require institutional acceptance letters and financial documentation. Student visa validity aligns with academic program duration, with extension possibilities for continued studies.

Transit and Special Categories

Transit visas accommodate travelers with layovers exceeding 8 hours. Diplomatic and official visas follow specialized protocols, while family reunion visas enable dependent sponsorship with extended validity periods and multiple-entry privileges.

Processing Times by Visa Category

Tourist visas typically process within 3-5 business days through online applications, while business visas require 5-7 business days. Work permits demand 15-30 business days for complete processing, including labor approval stages.

Application Costs and Fee Structure

Standard tourist e-visas cost BD 29 ($77 USD) for single entry, with multiple-entry options at BD 51 ($135 USD). Business visas range from BD 40-80 ($106-212 USD) depending on duration and sponsorship requirements.

Where to Submit Applications

• Online Portal: eVisa.gov.bh for tourist and business applications
• Bahrain Embassy London: +44 20 7201 9170
• VFS Global Centers: Multiple locations for document submission

Peak Processing Periods

Processing extends 2-3 additional days during Ramadan, Eid holidays, and Formula 1 season (March). December through February experiences heightened application volumes, requiring expedited processing for urgent travel.

Required Documentation

• Passport valid 6 months minimum
• Confirmed hotel reservations or sponsor letter
• Return flight tickets
• Recent passport photograph

Success Rates and Extensions

Tourist visa approval rates exceed 95% for complete applications. Extensions up to 30 additional days available through immigration offices at BD 20 fee. Payment accepted via credit card, bank transfer, or cash at designated centers.

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Category

Identify the appropriate visa type based on your travel purpose—tourist, business, work, or transit. Visit visa duration ranges from 14 days to 3 months, while work permits require employer sponsorship. Consult Bahrain's official immigration portal for specific category requirements.

Step 2: Document Preparation and Verification

Compile essential documents including:

• Passport valid for minimum 6 months
• Completed application form with accurate information
• Recent passport-sized photographs meeting official specifications
• Supporting documents (invitation letters, hotel bookings, employment contracts)

All foreign documents must be authenticated and translated into Arabic by certified translators.

Step 3: Online Application Submission

Access the eVisa portal at evisa.gov.bh or submit through authorized visa centers. Complete forms meticulously, ensuring all information matches supporting documents exactly. Save application reference numbers for tracking purposes.

Step 4: Fee Payment and Biometric Data

Pay required fees using accepted payment methods—credit cards or bank transfers. Schedule biometric appointments if applicable. Processing fees vary by visa type and nationality, ranging from BD 5-25 for tourist visas.

Step 5: Application Processing and Status Tracking

Monitor application progress through online tracking systems. Standard processing takes 3-7 working days for tourist visas, longer for work permits. Avoid travel bookings until visa approval confirmation.

Step 6: Visa Collection and Entry Procedures

Download approved eVisa or collect from submission center. Verify all details for accuracy immediately. Present visa alongside passport at Bahrain immigration upon arrival. Rejection appeals must be submitted within 30 days with additional supporting documentation.