Bahrain E-Visa: Quick Processing Time Or Long Wait?

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, you'll need to get your travel documents in order. The Bahrain eVisa is an electronic travel document that you can apply for online, without visiting an embassy or consulate. The process is straightforward, but how long does it take to get approved?

Processing times and costs

The processing time for a Bahrain eVisa is typically between 3 and 7 working days, although some sources state that it can take up to 12 working days in certain cases. The cost of the eVisa depends on the processing time selected and ranges from USD $144.99 to $226.99. The cost for Indian nationals is INR 2,081.

Processing Times

The standard processing time for a Bahrain eVisa is 3 to 7 working days. However, there may be exceptional cases that take longer. It is recommended to apply at least two weeks before your travel date to ensure adequate processing time.

Some sources state that the processing time can be up to 12 working days, especially if there are issues with the application, such as missing information or attachments. Therefore, it is important to carefully review your application before submission.

Costs

The cost of a Bahrain eVisa depends on the selected processing time. The standard processing time of 7 days costs USD $144.99. For faster processing, there is a Rush option of 5 days for USD $179.99 and a Super Rush option of 4 days for USD $226.99.

The cost of the eVisa for Indian nationals is INR 2,081. This cost includes the government fee, and a full refund is provided if the visa is rejected.

Required documents

The required documents for a Bahrain eVisa vary depending on your nationality. However, there are some standard documents that are necessary for all applicants. These include:

• A valid passport with a validity period of at least 6 months from the day of your arrival in Bahrain. It should also have at least one blank page.
• A copy of the photo/biodata page of your valid passport. Additionally, if you have an Indian passport, you will need a copy of its last page.
• A copy of your return flight ticket.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or a Central Population Registry printout if staying with a relative.
• Proof of financial means, such as bank statements showing a minimum balance of USD 800-1000.

Depending on your nationality, you may also need to provide the following:

• A copy of a valid GCC residence permit valid for at least three months.
• A copy of a valid visit visa for the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Saudi Arabia (excluding Hajj and Umrah Visas), a Schengen Member State, or a U.S. Green Card.

The application process typically involves filling out an online form, reviewing and verifying the information, and attaching the required documents. It is important to note that you must be outside Bahrain when applying for this visa.

How to apply

The Bahrain e-Visa is an electronic travel document that allows eligible citizens to visit the Kingdom of Bahrain for tourism, business, or to visit family and friends. The application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Bahrain e-Visa:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before starting your application, ensure that you are eligible for the Bahrain e-Visa. Citizens from over 100 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, many European countries, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States, are eligible. However, citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) do not need this visa to visit Bahrain.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

To apply for the Bahrain e-Visa, you will need the following documents:

• A valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months from the date of your arrival in Bahrain and at least one blank page.
• A copy of the photo page of your passport. If you have an Indian passport, you will also need a copy of the last page.
• A copy of your return flight ticket.
• Depending on your nationality, you may also need additional documents, such as hotel booking confirmation, bank statements, a valid GCC residence permit, or a valid visa for specific countries.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official website of the Kingdom of Bahrain Visa System to access the online application form. Fill out the form with the required information, including your personal details, travel plans, and passport information. Double-check all the information for accuracy before submitting the form.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee

After submitting the application form, you will be directed to a payment page. Pay the visa fee using a credit or debit card. The standard processing fee is USD 144.99, while faster processing options are available for an additional cost. Please note that the processing fee is non-refundable, even if your application is not approved.

Step 5: Wait for Visa Approval

The processing time for the Bahrain e-Visa is approximately 3 to 7 working days. You will be notified by email once your application has been approved. The approved e-Visa will be sent to your email, and it will also be electronically linked to your passport. It is recommended to have a printed copy and a digital copy on your electronic device when you travel.

Please note that holding a visa does not guarantee entry into Bahrain. You must still meet all the conditions upon arrival, and your entry is at the discretion of the immigration officer. Additionally, you must enter Bahrain through the airport, and your visa must be used within the first 30 days of its validity.

Visa validity and length of stay

The validity of your Bahrain e-Visa depends on the type of visa you apply for. The e-Visa can be valid for two weeks, three months, one year, or five years. The two-week visa is a single-entry visa, while the three-month, one-year, and five-year visas are multiple-entry visas.

The length of stay permitted with the Bahrain e-Visa varies. The two-week visa allows a stay of two weeks, while the three-month visa allows a maximum stay of 30 days in Bahrain. The one-year and five-year multiple-entry visas allow a maximum stay of 90 days.

It's important to note that the Bahrain e-Visa is not valid for any purpose other than tourism, visiting friends and family, or business. Additionally, applicants must be outside Bahrain when applying for the e-Visa and must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Bahrain.

The processing time for the Bahrain e-Visa typically ranges from three to five working days, but it can take up to 12 working days in some cases. The cost of the e-Visa also varies depending on the processing time and the type of visa.

Visa extension

The Bahrain e-Visa is a multiple-entry visa that is valid for 90 days after arrival, with a maximum stay of 30 days per entry. It is possible to extend the Bahrain Tourist eVisa for eligible visitors. The extension can be done online or in person at the NPRA service centre.

Who Can Apply for a Bahrain Visa Extension?

• Visitors: Tourists who require additional time in Bahrain can apply for an extension.
• Business Travellers: Business visitors whose trip extends beyond their initial visa period can request an extension.
• Guarantors: Government organisations, companies operating in Bahrain, and Bahraini citizens can be guarantors for visitors seeking a visa extension.

Required Documents for a Bahrain Visa Extension

• Completed Service Request Form: This form can be obtained online or from the NPRA service centre.
• Valid Passport Copy: A clear photocopy of the applicant's passport, with a validity exceeding six months, is mandatory.
• Guarantor Documents:
• A clear copy of the company's valid commercial registration is required for companies acting as guarantors.
• If a Bahraini citizen is the guarantor, a photocopy of their national ID card is necessary.
• Applicant/Authorised Representative ID: A clear copy of the applicant's ID or the authorised representative's ID applying is needed.

Applying for a Bahrain Visa Extension: Two Methods

• Online:
• Visit the Kingdom of Bahrain National Portal.
• Choose your applicant type.
• Provide the required details, including passport information, date of birth, and nationality.
• Pay any applicable fees online.
• In-Person:
• Download and install the "Mawaeid" app on your smartphone to schedule an appointment at the NPRA office.
• Visit the NPRA service centre on your scheduled appointment date with all the necessary documents.
• Follow the submission procedures outlined by the NPRA staff.
• Pay the extension fees and receive a receipt with your application number for tracking purposes.

Bahrain Visa Extension Fees

The cost of a Bahrain visa extension varies depending on the type of visa and the desired extension duration. Here is a breakdown of the fees:

• General Visa Extension:
• One-week extension: BD 40 (a BD 50 fee applies for extensions less than six days).
• One Month Extension: BD 30
• Two Week Extension: BD 25
• Three Month Extension: BD 20
• Business Visa Extension (Two Weeks): BD 40

Important Considerations

• Ensure you apply for the extension before your current visa expires. Overstaying your visa can lead to penalties.
• Incomplete applications are likely to be rejected, so double-check that you have all the required documents.
• Processing times for visa extensions can vary, so factor this into your trip extension plans.

Frequently asked questions