Applying For A Us Passport: Options In Bahrain

If you are a US citizen and want to travel to Bahrain, you will need a valid passport and a visa. You can apply for a two-week tourist visa on the Bahrain eVisa website or upon arrival. If you are a US citizen and want to travel to the US from Bahrain, you will need a valid passport, but you do not need a US visa. However, if you are a citizen of a foreign country and want to travel to the US, you will generally need a US visa, which will be placed in your passport.

Requirements for a US passport

US citizens require a passport to travel to Bahrain. Here are the requirements and steps to obtain a US passport.

Requirements

• You must be a US citizen or national. Only US citizens are eligible for US passports.
• You must prove your identity. This can be done by presenting certain documents, such as a previous US passport, a driver's license, a military ID, or a certificate of naturalization.
• You must provide a photocopy of your passport.
• You must submit a passport photo. This photo must meet specific requirements, such as size and lighting.
• You must complete the appropriate application form. The form you need to fill out will depend on whether you are applying for a new passport, renewing an old one, or replacing a lost or stolen passport.
• You must pay the applicable fee. The fee varies depending on whether you are applying for a new passport, renewing an old one, or replacing a lost or stolen passport.

Additional requirements for minors (under 16)

If you are applying for a passport for a minor, you must also:

• Provide proof of the minor's identity and US citizenship.
• Have the minor's application form signed by both parents or guardians.
• Provide parental consent. Both parents must consent to the issuance of the passport. If one parent is unable to be present, the other parent can sign on their behalf, provided they can submit evidence of sole custody or a notarized statement of consent from the absent parent.

Additional requirements for first-time applicants

If this is your first US passport, you must also:

• Apply in person.
• Provide evidence of your relationship to your parent(s) or legal guardian(s), such as a birth certificate or adoption decree.
• Provide a social security number.

Steps to obtain a US passport:

• Gather the required documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including proof of identity, passport photos, and completed application forms.
• Fill out the application form: You can download the application form from the US Department of State website or pick up a copy at your local passport acceptance facility.
• Submit the application: You can apply for a passport in person at an acceptance facility or by mail, depending on your eligibility. Some locations may require an appointment.
• Pay the fee: The fee varies depending on your age, the type of passport you are applying for, and whether you are renewing or replacing a passport.
• Wait for processing: The processing time can vary, but it typically takes 4-6 weeks for routine service or 2-3 weeks for expedited service.
• Receive your passport: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your US passport.

Applying for a US passport in Bahrain

US citizens in Bahrain can apply for or renew their US passports at the US Embassy in Manama. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before scheduling an appointment at the US Embassy, ensure that you have all the required documents. These typically include:

• A completed passport application form
• Your previous passport (if applicable)
• Proof of US citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate
• A recent passport-sized photograph
• Proof of identity, such as a driver's license
• Applicable fees

Step 2: Schedule an Appointment

Visit the US Embassy in Manama's website to schedule an appointment for passport services. Select an available date and time that works for you.

Step 3: Attend Your Appointment

On the day of your appointment, arrive at the US Embassy in Manama with all your documents and fees. You will need to go through security checks, so ensure that you bring only what is required for your appointment.

Step 4: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents

During your appointment, a consular officer will review your application and supporting documents. They will also collect the applicable fees.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After your appointment, your passport application will be processed. The processing time can vary, so be sure to check the US Embassy's website or contact them directly for updates.

Step 6: Collect Your Passport

Once your passport is ready, the US Embassy will notify you via phone or email. You will need to return to the embassy to collect your new passport and provide your biometric information, such as fingerprints.

Please note that the steps outlined above are general guidelines, and it is always best to refer to the US Embassy in Manama's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the passport application process.

US passport renewal in Bahrain

US citizens in Bahrain can renew their passports by submitting Form DS-82, the form for adult passport renewal. This can be done without an appointment if the Consular Dropbox is used. The US Embassy in Bahrain is located in Manama, and the workweek in Bahrain is Sunday through Thursday.

Passports must be valid for at least six months when travelling to Bahrain. It is illegal for Bahraini employers to retain employees' passports, though this is a common practice. If your passport is lost or stolen, you must apply in person and submit Form DS-64 and Form DS-11.

If you are a US citizen and you are arrested or detained, ask the police or prison officials to notify the US Embassy immediately.

US passport fees in Bahrain

US citizens in Bahrain can apply for or renew their passports at the US Embassy in Manama. The embassy accepts payments in US dollars, Bahraini dinar, or by credit card.

The DS-82 Adult US Passport Renewal Fee is for adults aged 16+ who are renewing a 10-year validity passport that is undamaged, still in their possession, and was issued less than 15 years ago. The fee can be paid online via Pay.Gov, and a copy of the receipt must be submitted with the application.

The DS-11 US Passport Application Fee is for all other overseas applicants and can also be paid via Pay.Gov.

The US Embassy in Manama does not issue Official, no-fee passports for NSA Bahrain personnel. Official passport holders can use their passport as proof of US citizenship to apply for or renew a tourist/regular (blue) passport.

US passport processing time in Bahrain

US citizens in Bahrain can apply for or renew their passports at the US Embassy in Manama. The processing time for passports depends on the demand and can vary. If you are planning to travel within two weeks, you should look into getting an emergency passport.

The US Embassy in Bahrain does not offer non-emergency citizen services over the weekend or on public holidays.

To apply for a new passport, you will need to complete and submit Form DS-11. If you are eligible to renew your passport, you will need to complete and submit Form DS-82.

Frequently asked questions