Bahrain Evisa Processing Time: How Long Does It Take?

The processing time for a Bahrain e-visa can vary depending on the service you use and the urgency of your application. The standard processing time is around 3-5 working days, but there are expedited services available for those requiring urgent travel documents. These include 'Rush Processing' and 'Super Rush Processing', which are available for an additional fee. It's important to note that the time it takes to process your e-visa may also be influenced by factors such as application details, demand and workload, and internal procedures. Therefore, it is recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any delays.

Processing time: 3-5 working days, but can vary

The processing time for a Bahrain e-visa is typically 3-5 working days. However, it's important to note that this duration can vary due to several factors.

Firstly, the accuracy and completeness of your application play a crucial role. Any inaccuracies or missing information may lead to delays as authorities may need to seek clarifications or corrections. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your application is thoroughly reviewed and all necessary documents are provided.

Secondly, the demand and workload of applications can impact the processing time. During peak seasons or holidays, higher demand may result in longer wait times. The number of applications received can influence the overall processing duration.

Additionally, internal procedures and checks by the authorities are part of the e-visa processing. The time required for these procedures contributes to the total processing time.

It is recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date to avoid any potential delays. The flexibility of the processing time allows for a streamlined and efficient process, catering to different levels of urgency.

Moreover, expedited processing options are available for travellers with urgent needs, usually at an additional cost. These options can reduce the processing time, ensuring that travellers can obtain their visas promptly.

Application requirements: passport, photo, ticket, hotel reservation, etc

The Bahrain eVisa application process typically takes 3-5 working days, but there may be exceptional cases that take longer. The time it takes to process your application will depend on factors such as application details, demand and workload, and internal procedures. To avoid delays, it is recommended to apply well in advance of your travel date.

When applying for a Bahrain eVisa, you will need to meet the following requirements:

Passport

A valid passport with a validity period of more than six months is required for all applicants. The passport biodata page, which includes the photograph, name, date, and place of birth, must be scanned and submitted with the application. Each applicant must provide their own passport; dependents cannot be endorsed in the primary applicant's passport.

Photo

A digital photograph is required as part of the application. The photo must meet the standard requirements for passport photos and be clear and recent.

Ticket

Proof of a return or onward ticket is mandatory for the Bahrain eVisa application. This can be in the form of a flight, bus, or ferry ticket, depending on your mode of travel.

Hotel Reservation or Invitation Letter

Applicants must provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation, or a Central Population Registry (CPR) printout if staying with a relative. An invitation letter from a company or host in Bahrain is also accepted as proof of accommodation.

Financial Means

It is necessary to demonstrate that you can support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Bahrain. This can be done by providing a bank statement or other proof of sufficient funds.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (if applicable)

If you are travelling from a country at risk of Yellow Fever, you must submit proof of vaccination.

Other Possible Requirements

• Valid email address
• Credit or debit card for payment of fees
• Proof of employment or invitation letter, depending on the purpose of your visit

Please note that the requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It is always advisable to check the official website of the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Visa types: tourist, business, work, family, etc

The Bahrain eVisa system offers a streamlined and efficient process for travellers wishing to visit the Kingdom of Bahrain. The processing time is usually a few working days, but it can take up to 5-8 working days. The time taken depends on the urgency of the application and the number of applications being processed.

There are several types of visas available for Bahrain:

Tourist Visa

The Bahrain Tourist Visa is issued to individuals or groups who wish to visit the country for sightseeing purposes. Many nationalities worldwide can enter Bahrain without a visa for up to 90 days. If a nationality is not eligible for visa-free entry, additional documents such as proof of financial means, accommodation, travel insurance, and a return flight ticket are required.

Business or Fair Participation Visa

The Bahrain Business or Fair Participation Visa is for individuals visiting the country for business-related purposes such as meetings, events, business fairs, or unpaid training. The application must include invitation documents from professional chambers and organisations.

Family, Relative, or Friend Visit Visa

To visit family members or friends residing in Bahrain, one must obtain the Family, Relative, or Friend Visit Visa. An invitation letter from the person being visited is required for the application.

Cultural, Sports, or Conference Visit Visa

The Cultural, Sports, or Conference Visit Visa is granted to individuals or groups attending cultural, sports, or conference events in Bahrain. The application must include an invitation from the receiving association and confirmation documents from the supervising ministry.

Short-Term Education or Internship Visa

The Short-Term Education or Internship Visa is for international students who wish to study in Bahrain for university projects or special occasions for less than three months. Applicants must provide documents showing sufficient means of subsistence, proof of accommodation, and an admission letter from the receiving institution.

Long-Term Visa (Category D)

The Long-Term Visa is required for stays exceeding three months, even if the applicant's nationality is on the visa-free list. This visa is applicable for students, employees, academics, researchers, individuals with family members who are Bahrain citizens, patients receiving medical treatment, and investors who have invested a significant amount in a Bahrain-based industry, project, or business.

Transit Visa

The Bahrain Transit Visa is for individuals whose nationalities are not eligible for transiting to another destination from Bahrain. This visa authorises a stay of up to two days while travelling to a third country.

Work Visa

To work in Bahrain, a separate visa is required. For UK citizens, a standard work permit or Bahrain Work Visa is necessary. Applicants need a signed employment contract directly with a Bahrain-based corporate entity. The sponsoring entity must submit an application to verify that the applicant's profile is free of pending criminal investigations.

Cost: $24 for US citizens, $83-$186 for others

The cost of a Bahrain e-visa varies based on the type of visa and the applicant's nationality. For US citizens, the cost of a Bahrain e-visa is $24. For citizens of other countries, the cost can range from $83 to $186.

The Bahrain e-Visa system offers a streamlined and efficient process for travellers visiting the Kingdom of Bahrain. The typical processing time is a few working days, providing a convenient option for travellers seeking authorisation. The cost of the e-visa includes a government fee, which is mandatory and set by the Bahrain government, and a processing fee. Additionally, there may be a service charge for the e-visa application, which covers administrative and processing costs.

The cost of the Bahrain e-visa is influenced by several factors, including the type of visa selected. Single-entry visas are typically less expensive than multiple-entry visas, which offer added convenience for travellers who need to enter and exit Bahrain multiple times during their trip. The length of stay permitted by the visa also affects the cost, with longer stays generally resulting in higher fees.

It's important to note that the Bahrain e-visa fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application. Applicants should also be aware of potential additional fees, such as those for expedited processing or currency conversion, depending on their payment method.

Extensions: apply online or in-person in Bahrain

The processing time for a Bahrain e-visa is typically around 3-5 working days, but can take up to 8 working days. This duration is flexible and can vary depending on factors such as application details, demand and workload, and internal procedures. Expedited processing options are available for urgent cases.

Extensions for the Bahrain e-visa can be obtained by visiting the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) main office in Manama, Exhibitions Avenue, Building One, on the ground floor, or the Muharraq MOI service center at the following address: Building 378, Sheikh Hamad Street Complex 211. An extension fee will be charged.

Alternatively, you can apply for an extension online through the official website of the Kingdom of Bahrain: https://www.evisa.gov.bh/. This is the only official website for applying for or extending a visa to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Please note that the extension is only valid for another two weeks. If you wish to stay longer, you may need to explore other visa options.

Frequently asked questions