Applying For A Bahrain Visit Visa: A Simple Guide

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, it's important to understand the visa requirements and application procedures. Bahrain offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit, such as tourist visas, business visas, work visas, family visas, and student visas. The type of visa you need will depend on your nationality, duration of stay, and reason for visiting. In this guide, we will focus on how to apply for a visit visa to Bahrain, outlining the steps, requirements, and other essential information to help you navigate the process smoothly.

How to apply for a Bahrain eVisa

The Bahrain eVisa is an electronic visa introduced in 2014 by the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain. It allows citizens of eligible countries to enter the country for tourism or business purposes. The eVisa is linked to the applicant's passport, so there is no need to visit a Bahrain embassy to obtain a regular visa.

Eligibility

Citizens from eligible countries can apply for a Bahrain eVisa online. The list of eligible countries can be found on the official Bahrain eVisa website.

Types of eVisa

There are three types of eVisa:

• Single-entry eVisa: Allows holders to stay in Bahrain for up to 14 days. Fee: 69 euros.
• Multiple-entry eVisa for a 30-day stay: Allows holders to enter and exit Bahrain multiple times over a 3-month period, with a maximum stay of 1 month per visit. Fee: 109 euros.
• Multiple-entry eVisa for a 90-day stay: Allows numerous entries into Bahrain over a 1-year period, with each stay lasting up to 3 months. Fee: 249 euros.

Application Process

• Complete the online application form: Provide personal information such as full name, nationality, date of birth, passport details, and travel plans. Double-check all the information before submitting to avoid processing delays.
• Confirm payment: Pay the visa fee using a valid debit or credit card authorized for online payments.
• Receive the approved eVisa: The eVisa is usually processed within 3 to 8 business days. Once approved, it is electronically linked to your passport. You will receive a copy of the approved eVisa via email, which you can print out and present upon arrival in Bahrain.

Requirements and Documents

• A valid passport with a validity period of at least 6 months from the intended date of entry to Bahrain.
• A copy of the biographical page of the applicant's passport (and the last page for Indian passports).
• A copy of a return/onward flight ticket.
• Proof of hotel reservations in Bahrain or a copy of a relative's CPR Reader's printout if staying with relatives.
• Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide additional documents such as bank statements and proof of a valid GCC residence permit.

Important Information

• The Bahrain eVisa does not guarantee entry into the country. You must meet all conditions upon arrival to be granted entry.
• Applicants must be outside of Bahrain when applying for the eVisa.
• The eVisa cannot be used for employment purposes. For work visas, contact the nearest Bahrain embassy.
• The eVisa must be used within 30 days of approval.
• The eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of approval.

What documents are required for a Bahrain eVisa

To apply for a Bahrain eVisa, you will need the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from your intended arrival date in Bahrain. You will need to upload a scanned copy of the biodata page of your passport.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your trip, such as bank statements.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation. If you are staying with a relative, you will need to submit a Central Population Registry (CPR) reader's printout.
• A return or onward travel ticket.
• A yellow fever vaccination card, if travelling from a high-risk country.

Some sources also suggest that you may need:

• Copies of stamped bank statements in the traveller's name from the past three months, with a minimum end balance of USD 800 or BD 300.
• A copy of a valid GCC residence permit that is valid for at least three months.
• A copy of a valid visit visa for the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, Saudi Arabia, a Schengen Member State, or a US Green Card.

How to apply for a Bahrain Embassy Visa

To apply for a Bahrain Embassy Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• You are not eligible for a visa on arrival or an online visa.
• You want to stay in Bahrain for longer than a visa on arrival or an online visa allows (i.e. longer than 30 days).

You can find the Bahrain Embassies on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Embassy Bahrain Visa is for multiple entries and allows you to stay in Bahrain for up to 30 days within a three-month period.

Even if you are applying for a Bahrain Visa via an Embassy, you must still complete and submit an online application to your chosen Embassy. To do this, you must:

• Complete the online application form by providing your nationality and purpose of visit.
• Once you have submitted this information, you will see a list of visas that you are allowed to apply for, based on your answers and nationality.
• Select the visa you wish to apply for and click "Apply now".
• You will then be redirected to the application form, where you must provide your personal details and attach electronic copies of your passport and a passport-sized photo. You also have the option of attaching additional documents, if needed.
• Finally, the consular staff of the Bahrain Embassy you have applied to will notify you of the next steps.

Bahrain Visa Requirements

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

• A passport with at least six months' validity from the date of entry.
• A passport-sized photo.
• Proof that you can support yourself financially in Bahrain (bank statements from the last three months).
• Proof of accommodation in Bahrain.
• Any other documents required by the Bahrain Embassy or Immigration.

What are the requirements for a Bahrain Visa

To apply for a visit visa to Bahrain, you must do so via the official website of the Kingdom of Bahrain. This is the only official website to apply for a visa to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

There are several types of visas available for Bahrain, including tourist, business, work, family, and student visas. The type of visa you need will depend on your purpose of travel.

The Bahrain eVisa is a popular option for those travelling to Bahrain for tourism or business. It is a multiple-entry visa that is valid for 90 days after arrival, with a maximum stay of 30 days per entry. To apply for this visa, you must:

• Have a valid passport from an eligible country with at least six months of validity remaining from the day you arrive in Bahrain.
• Complete an online application form, providing personal details and travel information.
• Provide additional supporting documents, which may include:
• A copy of your return flight ticket.
• A copy of your hotel booking confirmation or a copy of a relative's Central Population Registry printout.
• Copies of stamped bank statements in the traveller's name from the past three months, with a minimum end balance (e.g., USD 1000).
• A copy of a valid GCC residence permit valid for at least three months.
• A copy of a valid visit visa for specific countries, such as the United Arab Emirates or the United States.
• Pay the non-refundable application fee, which varies depending on the processing time selected.

It is important to note that holding a visa does not guarantee entry into Bahrain, and you must meet all conditions upon arrival to be granted entry.

How to apply for a Bahrain Visa on Arrival

Overview

Bahrain offers a visa-on-arrival facility to eligible travellers, allowing them to obtain a visa upon entering the country. This option is available to citizens of specific countries, and it is always recommended to verify the latest eligibility information before travelling. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Bahrain Visa on Arrival.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before planning your trip to Bahrain, it is essential to verify if you are eligible for a Visa on Arrival. Bahrain offers Visa on Arrival to citizens of certain countries, including the British Virgin Islands, Caribbean Netherlands, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the United Arab Emirates, among others. The eligibility criteria may be subject to change, so it is important to check for updates before your travel.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

When applying for a Bahrain Visa on Arrival, you will need to have the necessary documents ready. These typically include a valid passport with at least six months of validity from your intended arrival date, a confirmed return flight ticket or travel itinerary, and proof of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Bahrain. Additionally, proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation, can strengthen your application.

Step 3: Arrive at Bahrain International Airport

The Visa on Arrival facility is available at Bahrain International Airport. Upon arrival, proceed to the immigration counters and inform the officers that you intend to apply for a Visa on Arrival. They will guide you through the process and provide you with the necessary forms and instructions.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

You will need to fill out the Bahrain Visa on Arrival application form accurately and provide all the required information. This typically includes personal details such as your name, date of birth, nationality, passport information, occupation, and current address. Ensure that all the information provided is correct and matches the details in your passport.

Step 5: Submit the Application and Required Documents

After completing the application form, submit it along with the required documents to the immigration officials. This typically includes your passport, a copy of your air ticket, hotel booking confirmation, bank statements showing sufficient funds, and any other supporting documents that may be required based on your specific situation.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Fee

When applying for a Visa on Arrival in Bahrain, you will need to pay the applicable visa fee. The fee varies depending on the type of visa, your nationality, and the processing speed you choose. Ensure you have a valid payment method, such as a debit or credit card, to pay the visa fee.

Step 7: Wait for Processing and Approval

After submitting your application and supporting documents, wait for the immigration officials to process your visa application. The processing time may vary, but it is generally completed within a few days. If additional information or clarification is required, the officials will contact you.

Step 8: Collect Your Visa

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive your visa, which must be printed and presented upon entry to Bahrain. Keep the visa safe, as it grants you permission to enter and stay in the country for the specified duration.

Important Considerations:

• It is recommended to obtain your visa before arriving in Bahrain to speed up the immigration process.
• Always carry your passport and visa with you during your stay in Bahrain, as they may be required for identification and entry to certain locations.
• The Visa on Arrival facility is subject to change, and eligibility criteria may vary, so check for updates before your travel.
• The Visa on Arrival fee is separate from the application fee, and payment does not guarantee visa approval.

Frequently asked questions