Covid Testing Requirements For Air Travel To Bahrain

If you're planning to fly to Bahrain, you'll need to be aware of the country's COVID-19 testing requirements for arriving passengers. As of November 2024, all arriving passengers must undergo a PCR test upon arrival at their own expense. This costs BD40 or BD60, depending on the source, and includes a second test to be conducted 10 days later. Payments can be made in advance or on arrival, either in cash or electronically. Arriving passengers must remain in self-isolation until the results of the first PCR test are determined. Children under 6 years of age, transit passengers, cabin crew, diplomatic staff, and those arriving for medical reasons are exempt from testing. Testing requirements can change rapidly, so it's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

Do I need a PCR test to fly to Bahrain?

As of December 2022, all arriving passengers must undergo a PCR test at their own expense upon landing in Bahrain. The test costs BD60, and payments can be made in advance via the 'BeAware Bahrain' mobile application, or on arrival in cash or electronically. Passengers must remain in self-isolation until the PCR test results have been determined. The BD60 fee also covers a second test, which is conducted 10 days later.

Children under the age of 6, transit passengers, cabin crew, diplomatic staff, and those arriving from medical travel are exempt from the PCR test.

Before travelling to Bahrain

It is important to note that citizens planning to travel abroad must comply with entry procedures and requirements at their destinations. They must also sign a declaration form prior to departure, agreeing to bear any medical costs while abroad as well as mandatory COVID-19 testing once they arrive in Bahrain.

Other COVID-19 measures at Bahrain International Airport

In addition to the mandatory PCR test, Bahrain International Airport has implemented several other COVID-19 precautionary measures. These include:

• Temperature screening at entry points to the terminal and before boarding. Passengers with a high fever will be subject to a secondary medical assessment.
• Mandatory face masks for all passengers and staff at the airport.
• Social distancing measures, with footprint stickers and seat blockers in place to remind people to keep their distance.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) vending machines that provide hand sanitiser, disposable gloves, and face masks are available for passengers before and after the economy and premium check-in counters and at the arrivals area.
• Frequent sanitisation of all frequently touched surfaces, including plastic security trays at the entry and exit of security locations.
• A disinfection team on standby 24/7 to respond to any incidents.
• Passenger and staff shuttle buses are running at 50% occupancy to maintain social distancing, and are regularly disinfected.

How much does a COVID test for travel to Bahrain cost?

If you are planning to fly to Bahrain, you will need to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at the airport. This test costs BD40, BD60, or BD36, depending on the source you consult. Payments can be made in cash or electronically, and you can also pay in advance via the 'BeAware Bahrain' mobile application. The fee covers a second test, which is conducted 10 days later.

Children under the age of 6 are exempt from testing, as are transit passengers, cabin crew, diplomatic staff, and those arriving from medical travel.

Please note that the cost of the test is not the only expense to consider when travelling to Bahrain. There is also a 60 Bahrain Dinar fee imposed for medical screening on arrival and departure.

Where can I get a COVID test for travel to Bahrain?

If you are travelling to Bahrain, you must undergo a PCR test at your own expense upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport. The test costs BD40 or BD60, depending on the source, and covers a second test to be conducted 10 days later. Payments can be made on arrival in cash or electronically, or in advance via the 'BeAware Bahrain' mobile application. Children under the age of 6 are exempt from testing.

If you are travelling from Dubai, you can find a list of authorised COVID-19 test laboratories on the Emirates website. The UAE government has also specified designated laboratories in each of its current destinations, which you can find on their website.

What are the entry requirements for Bahrain?

To enter Bahrain, you must comply with the country's COVID-19 measures and visa requirements.

COVID-19 Measures

All arriving passengers must:

• Take a PCR test on arrival at their own expense (BD40 or BD60).
• Self-isolate until they receive a negative PCR test result.
• Take a second PCR test 10 days after arriving in Bahrain, which is covered by the initial fee.
• Complete a health declaration form.

Children under 6 are exempt from testing and payment. Transit passengers, cabin crew, diplomatic staff, and those arriving from medical travel are also exempt from testing.

Visa Requirements

Bahrain has an online visa system, and visas on arrival have been reintroduced for citizens of eligible nationalities. To determine eligibility and obtain an eVisa, visit www.evisa.gov.bh.

Most nationalities can apply for a tourist visa online, which is valid for up to 90 days. If your nationality is not eligible for a visa-free entry, you may need to provide:

• Additional documents, such as proof of sufficient financial means, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and a return flight ticket.
• A completed official visa application form.
• Proof of sufficient income.
• A copy of the sponsor's ID card.
• Proof of employment, such as a work contract.
• Bank statements from the last six months.
• Income tax documents or other relevant financial statements.
• Proof of business, such as bank statements, invoices, or receipts.

Some nationalities may require a visa sponsorship from Bahrain-based companies, hotels, or travel agencies. This typically involves providing:

• A letter from the sponsor explaining the reason for the visit.
• Proof of sufficient income.
• Copies of the sponsor's and applicant's IDs.

Do children need a COVID test to fly to Bahrain?

Children under the age of 6 are not required to take a PCR test to fly to Bahrain. However, children aged 6 and above must follow the same testing requirements as adults.

Testing Requirements for Arriving Passengers

All arriving passengers must take a PCR test at their own expense upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport (BIA). The test costs BD40 or BD60, depending on the source, and covers a second test conducted 10 days later. Payments can be made on arrival in cash or electronically, or in advance via the 'BeAware Bahrain' mobile application. Passengers must remain in self-isolation until the PCR test results are determined.

Exemption from Testing

The following passengers are exempt from testing:

• Children below the age of 6
• Transit passengers
• Cabin crew
• Diplomatic staff
• Those arriving from medical travel

Frequently asked questions