Exploring Bahrain: Understanding Visa-Free Stays And Their Limits

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, it's important to know about the country's visa requirements. The length of time you can stay in Bahrain without a visa depends on your nationality and the type of visa you obtain. Bahrain has a well-implemented online visa system, and many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or an e-Visa before travelling. However, there are specific requirements and restrictions to be aware of.

What are the requirements for a Bahrain e-Visa?

To enter Bahrain, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can enter Bahrain without a visa and may use a national ID card. Most other visitors to Bahrain may obtain a visa on arrival or an e-Visa before travelling.

The e-Visa is available for tourism, transit, and business purposes. It is valid for a two-week stay on a single-entry visa and a 90-day stay on a multiple-entry visa valid for one year. A multiple-entry visa valid for three months allows for a one-month stay.

To apply for a Bahrain e-Visa, you must provide the following:

• A scanned copy of your passport.
• A confirmed return air ticket or onward travel ticket.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking in Bahrain or the ID card of a relative/friend if you are staying with them.
• Proof of sufficient funds, such as a bank statement under your name covering the last three months with an ending balance of at least the equivalent of 1000 USD.

Processing times for the e-Visa typically take a few days, with expedited options available for an extra charge. Approved e-Visas are emailed and must be printed for presentation upon arrival in Bahrain.

How long can I stay in Bahrain on a single-entry visa?

In 2016, Bahrain adopted new visa policy rules, including a two-week stay allowance on a single-entry visa. This means that, with a single-entry visa, you can stay in Bahrain for up to two weeks.

The single-entry visa is valid for 90 days upon arrival, and permits a one-time stay in Bahrain for up to two weeks. This visa is designed for short-term travel, including tourism, visiting friends or family, and participating in business-related events such as conferences or meetings.

It is important to note that you must have a visa to visit Bahrain, and you cannot start employment in the country with a visit visa. If you overstay your visa, you may face penalties, legal issues, and your work visa could be cancelled.

To enter Bahrain, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival, and you must hold a return or onward ticket.

How long can I stay in Bahrain on a multiple-entry visa?

Bahrain introduced a new visa policy in October 2014, making it easier for travellers to obtain visas. Since then, Bahrain has issued more visas than before.

Most visitors to Bahrain need to obtain a visa before travelling. This can be done by applying for an e-Visa or a visa on arrival.

A multiple-entry visa for Bahrain can be valid for up to a year, with a maximum stay of 90 days. Citizens of Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom can obtain a five-year multiple-entry visa, allowing a 90-day stay on each visit.

In October 2020, the United States and Bahrain introduced a reciprocal agreement for a 10-year multi-entry visa scheme, allowing a 90-day stay for a cost of 160 USD (60 Bahraini Dinars).

It is important to note that the visa must be valid for the duration of your stay in Bahrain. Overstaying your visa can result in heavy fines, possible arrest, and/or deportation.

What is the cost of a Bahrain e-Visa?

The cost of a Bahrain e-Visa depends on the type of visa and the nationality of the applicant. Here is a breakdown of the cost for different types of e-Visas:

Visit Visa

The standard fee for a Visit Visa is BD 25 (approximately USD 66), with an additional processing fee of BD 4 (approximately USD 11), making the total cost BD 29 (approximately USD 77). This type of visa allows visitors to stay in Bahrain for 1 month and can be extended for an additional 2 weeks. It is a multiple-entry visa.

3-Month Visa

The cost of a 3-month visa is BD 16. This visa allows visitors to stay in Bahrain for 1 month on each entry during the validity period.

10-Year Visa

The 10-year visa costs BD 64. This visa is available for citizens of the United States and Bahrain through a reciprocal agreement. It allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit.

5-Year Visa

Citizens of Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom are eligible for a 5-year multiple-entry visa, which costs USD 160 (60 Bahraini Dinars). This visa allows a stay of 90 days on each visit.

2-Week Visa

The 2-week visa is available for USD 60. However, it is not clear if this is the cost of the visa or if there are additional fees involved.

It is important to note that the cost of the e-Visa varies depending on the nationality of the applicant and the type of visa required. The processing time for e-Visas is generally between 3 to 5 business days, and the visa is valid for a maximum stay of 2 weeks to 3 months, depending on the type of visa.

What documents do I need to apply for a Bahrain e-Visa?

To apply for a Bahrain e-Visa, you must submit the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from your intended arrival date in Bahrain.
• Proof of onward travel, such as a confirmed return flight ticket or documented travel itinerary.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation confirmation or an invitation letter from a Bahraini host.
• Proof of sufficient funds, such as a recent bank statement or a letter from your employer demonstrating financial resources to cover your stay.

Additionally, for specific visa types like the Business Meeting eVisa, you may need supporting documents such as a letter from your employer or a business invitation letter. It is recommended to refer to the official Bahrain e-visa website for the latest and most accurate information regarding document requirements.

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