Bahrain Visa: A Comprehensive Guide To Its Appearance

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, you'll need to know about the country's visa requirements. The good news is that citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival or an e-Visa before travelling. However, there are specific requirements and procedures to follow, and these may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. So, before packing your bags, make sure you understand the process and have all the necessary documents ready to ensure a smooth journey to this vibrant country.

How to get a tourist visa

To obtain a tourist visa for Bahrain, you must first ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes having a valid passport from a country that is not exempt from visa requirements, having a good intention behind travelling to the country, being able to bear all expenses during your stay, having strong ties to your home country, being of good character, and being in good health.

Once you have determined that you meet the eligibility requirements, you can begin the application process. The requirements to obtain an entry visa for Bahrain vary based on nationality, so it is important to check the specific regulations for your country before initiating the process. However, there are some general requirements and steps that apply to most applicants.

First, you will need to gather the necessary documents, which typically include a passport with at least two blank pages that is valid for at least six months from the expected arrival date in Bahrain, a recent passport-sized photograph, a confirmed round-trip plane ticket, proof of accommodation (such as a hotel voucher), a covering letter from the applicant detailing travel information and trip expenses, and bank statements showing sufficient funds for the last six months.

Next, you will need to fill out an application form and pay the associated visa fee. This can often be done through the Bahrain e-visa website or, for some nationalities, through an online visa system. In some cases, you may need to apply for a visa through a Bahrain embassy in your country of residence, a Bahraini sponsor, or a travel agency.

After submitting your application, you can check its status online. If your application is approved, be sure to print the confirmation document and bring it with you when you travel to Bahrain. It is important to note that holding a visa does not guarantee entry into Bahrain, and you must still meet all conditions upon arrival to be granted entry.

How to get a business visa

To obtain a business visa for Bahrain, you must follow a few steps and meet certain eligibility criteria. Firstly, you need to demonstrate that you are visiting the country solely for business purposes. This can be done by providing a signed No Objection Certificate (NOC) by a citizen or resident of Bahrain, or a sponsoring organisation or company. The purpose of your trip must be clearly stated, along with the number of days you intend to stay, and the name of the sponsoring entity.

Secondly, you must prove your financial capacity to meet the requirements of the trip. This includes showing that you have the necessary funds to cover all expenses. A bank statement from the last three months, with a minimum ending balance of at least $1000, is usually required.

Thirdly, you must have a clean criminal record, which may be verified by a Police Clearance Certificate. Additionally, you must be in good health and not suffering from any communicable diseases that could pose a risk to the local population.

In terms of documents, you will need a valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of entry, two blank pages for stamps, and a recent photograph. You will also need to provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation, and a round-trip flight itinerary.

The application process can be completed online through the Bahrain eVisa portal or, if you are ineligible for an online visa, at a Bahrain Embassy. The online application requires you to fill in personal details, trip details, and upload supporting documents. The visa fee can be paid using a credit or debit card. Processing times vary, but it typically takes 3 to 5 working days, or up to 8 days for a Business eVisa.

It is important to note that the business visa is one of the shortest visas available, with a validity of four weeks, and visitors are allowed to stay for a maximum of one week from the entry date. Therefore, it is crucial to plan your trip accordingly and respect the local laws and culture during your stay.

How to get a work visa

To enter Bahrain, visitors must have a passport that is valid for at least six months and a visa. However, citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar) can enter Bahrain without a visa and may use a national ID card.

Most nationalities can obtain a Bahrain tourist visa through its online visa system. However, if you are planning to work in Bahrain, you will need a work visa. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a work visa for Bahrain:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Firstly, determine if you need a visa. As mentioned, citizens of GCC countries do not require a visa to enter Bahrain. All other nationalities must apply for a visa.

Step 2: Understand the Requirements

If you require a work visa, you must be sponsored by an employer. The number of visas a company can sponsor depends on the physical size of the company's office and international quotas set by national regulations. Employers handle most of the application process on behalf of the employee.

Step 3: Gather Documents

The following documents are typically required for a Bahrain work visa application:

• Completed visa application form
• Employee's passport (valid for at least 6 months, but preferably 2 years)
• Employment contract or agreement between the employer and employee (in Arabic or bilingual, including specific details such as the employer's name/organization, commercial registration number, employee's capacity, salary, contract duration, name, birth date, and nationality)
• Health record from an authorized clinic (no older than three months)
• Academic or professional qualifications for the position

Step 4: Submit the Application

The employer usually submits the application to the Bahrain Labor Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) on behalf of the employee. The LMRA processes and issues all visas before international workers arrive in the country.

Step 5: Pay the Fees

After submitting the application, you will receive an application ID and a notification to pay the admin fees. These fees can be paid via the Expat Management System (EMS) or at one of the accredited banks.

Step 6: Wait for Processing

Bahrain typically processes work visa applications in around 5 business days, but there may be delays of up to 2 weeks.

Step 7: Receive the Work Visa

Once the application is approved and the fees are paid, the work visa will be issued. The employee can then use this visa to enter Bahrain and reside in the country during the employment period.

How to get a family visa

The Bahrain Family Visa, also known as the Dependant Residency Permit, allows eligible family members to join their loved ones in Bahrain. This visa is for spouses, unmarried children under 24 who are financially dependent, and other dependent family members under certain conditions.

To qualify, the applicant must be a close family member of an individual who legally resides and works in Bahrain with a valid work permit. The sponsoring employee must be registered with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). The applicant must also have a sufficient source of income to support themselves and the family member(s) they are sponsoring, as well as a suitable place of residence.

• Verify Visa Requirements: Review the visa requirements, including validity, purpose, duration of stay, and number of entries.
• Application Process: Navigate to the Bahrain e-visa website and select the "Bahrain e-visa application form" option.
• Enter General Information: Fill in details as per your passport (e.g., nationality, name, date of birth), and proceed.
• Document Submission: Upload the required documents, such as a valid passport, proof of relationship, and accommodation details. Required documents may also include birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of the sponsor's accommodation.
• Processing Time Selection: Choose your preferred processing time. The standard processing time typically takes a few days, while rush and super-rush processing are available for urgent travel at an additional cost.
• Complete the application fee payment.
• Receive your e-visa via email after processing.

The cost of the Bahrain Family Visa depends on factors such as visa category and validity, duration of stay, applicant's nationality, processing time, and additional services requested.

How to get a student visa

To obtain a student visa for Bahrain, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must provide a letter of acceptance, demonstrating that you have been offered a place on a full-time course at a recognised educational institution in Bahrain.
• You must be able to show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Bahrain.
• You must be able to show that your course fees have been paid in full.
• You must arrange private medical insurance and provide documentary evidence of this.
• You must demonstrate your intention to return to your home country at the end of your studies.

The process for applying for a student visa in Bahrain is not outlined, but Bahrain has a well-implemented online visa system, and it is possible for various nationalities to get a visa online. It may be possible to apply for a student visa through this system.

Alternatively, if you are a US citizen, you will need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa. To do this, you must:

• Complete a Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.
• Have a passport that is valid for travel to the United States and will remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay.
• Provide a 2"x2" photograph taken within the last six months.
• Pay a non-refundable nonimmigrant visa application processing fee and provide a receipt.
• Provide an approved Form I-20 from your US school or program.
• Provide a Form I-901 SEVIS fee receipt.
• Schedule an interview appointment and bring an interview appointment letter.
• Bring supporting documents to your interview, such as evidence of financial, social, and family ties to your home country, academic records, and proof of your relationship to any financial sponsors.

Frequently asked questions