Visa Options: Bahrain Embassy Or Consular Services?

If you're planning a trip to Bahrain, it's important to know the visa requirements for your country of residence. For U.S. citizens, a visa is required for tourism, business, or journalism, and it is advised to obtain this before arrival to speed up the immigration process. This can be done through the Bahrain e-visa website, or upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport, where visas are issued for a specific fee. However, it's important to note that visas must be valid for the duration of your stay, and failure to adhere to this may result in heavy fines, possible arrest, and/or deportation. For those not eligible for an on-arrival visa, an entry visa must be obtained in advance through a Bahrain embassy, a Bahraini sponsor, or a travel agency.

Pros and cons of getting a visa directly from the Bahrain embassy

Pros

• You can request a ten-year multiple-entry visa if applying through the Bahrain embassy, whereas eVisas are valid for 30 days from approval.
• If you are not eligible for an on-arrival visa, getting a visa in advance via a Bahrain embassy is one of the options.
• Applying for a visa in your country of residence can give you more time to prepare the required documents, such as a valid passport, a correctly filled-out application form, proof of sufficient funds, and more.
• Applying for a visa at an embassy may be a more suitable option for those who are not comfortable with navigating online platforms.
• If you are applying for a visa that requires additional documentation, such as a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or a letter from a Bahraini sponsor, applying at an embassy can provide an opportunity to submit these documents in person.

Cons

• Applying for a visa directly from the Bahrain embassy may require more time and effort compared to the eVisa platform, which offers convenience and speed.
• The eVisa platform allows for easy checking of eligibility, application status, and visa extension, providing flexibility and control to the applicant.
• For those who are unable to visit or access the Bahrain embassy easily, the eVisa platform offers a more accessible alternative.
• The eVisa platform is recommended for those who wish to speed up the immigration process upon arrival in Bahrain.
• Applying for a visa at an embassy may not be as convenient for those who prefer digital solutions and remote applications.

It is important to note that the decision to apply for a visa directly from the Bahrain embassy or through the eVisa platform depends on individual preferences, eligibility, and specific requirements for each type of visa.

Visa requirements for US citizens

US citizens travelling to Bahrain for tourism, business, or journalism purposes are required to have a valid visa. The visa can be obtained through the Bahrain e-Visa website or upon arrival. However, it is advised to obtain the visa before travelling to Bahrain to speed up the immigration process.

The e-visa application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Applicants will need to provide a scanned copy of their passport's bio-data page, a passport-sized photo, an approved return flight ticket, and proof of their hotel reservation. The e-visa costs BHD 9 (approximately $24) and is valid for 90 days, allowing a stay of up to 2 weeks in Bahrain. It typically takes 23 days to process, but this can vary due to different factors.

Alternatively, US citizens can apply for a visa on arrival, which allows them to stay in Bahrain for 2 weeks. However, this option is not guaranteed.

It is important to note that a valid passport is also required for entry into Bahrain and must have a validity of at least 6 months. Additionally, US citizens should be aware of other requirements, such as currency restrictions and vaccination requirements.

How to apply for a Bahrain e-visa

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Before applying for a Bahrain e-visa, it is important to check your eligibility. Currently, every nationality entering Bahrain needs an entry visa, except for Gulf Cooperation Council nationals (Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar). eVisas are available for visitors from more than 200 countries. If you are from a country that is not eligible for an on-arrival visa, an entry visa must be issued in advance via a Bahrain embassy in your country of residence, a Bahraini sponsor, or a travel agency.

Step 2: Prepare the required documents

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

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity and a blank page for the entry stamp.
• A photocopy of your passport.
• A valid plane ticket and hotel booking confirmation for your trip.
• Proof of sufficient funds, such as stamped bank statements in your name from the past three months with an end balance of at least US$1000.
• A correctly filled-out Bahrain Visa Application form.
• A money order.

Please note that depending on your nationality, you may also need to provide additional supporting documents, such as a copy of your relative's Central Population Registry printout or a valid GCC residence permit.

Step 3: Fill out the online application

You can apply for a Bahrain e-visa through the eVisa platform provided by the Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs (NPRA). The platform allows you to fill out the application form, pay the application fee, correct your application if needed, and even extend your visa if you decide to extend your stay.

Alternatively, you can use the services of an authorised third-party company, such as iVisa, which offers a simplified online application form and additional support throughout the process.

Step 4: Submit your application and wait for approval

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed and approved. The processing time can vary depending on the service you choose, with standard processing taking up to 7 days, rush processing taking 5 days, and super rush processing taking 4 days.

Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation document via email, and your e-visa will be electronically linked to your passport. It is recommended to have a printed copy of your e-visa and download it to your electronic device as well.

Step 5: Present your documents upon entry

When entering Bahrain, make sure to present your passport and the e-visa document to the immigration authorities. Please note that holding a visa does not guarantee entry into Bahrain, and you must meet all the conditions upon arrival to be granted entry.

Additionally, please be aware that Bahrain has specific dress code guidelines, especially for women, who should cover their shoulders, knees, and midriff and avoid wearing any clothing that shows underwear. Men should also dress conservatively, and it is generally considered inappropriate to wear shorts in public.

The Golden Residency Visa

• Retirees with a minimum set monthly income of BHD 4,000.
• Property owners with property/properties in Bahrain worth a total of BHD 200,000 or more.
• Highly talented individuals who meet certain requirements.
• Residents who have lived in Bahrain for at least five years with an average salary of no less than BHD 2,000 per month over that period.

The residency visa will be renewed indefinitely provided applicants continue to meet the criteria. Applicants will need to spend a minimum of 90 days each year in Bahrain.

The application fee for the Golden Residency Visa is 4 BHD per person, and the residency issuance fee is 300 BHD per person.

On-arrival visas

The eligibility criteria for on-arrival visas are primarily based on nationality. Nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar) are exempt from obtaining any entry visa, while citizens of other countries may be eligible for on-arrival visas.

The list of countries whose citizens are eligible for on-arrival visas includes:

• British Virgin Islands
• Caribbean Netherlands
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United States Virgin Islands
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Central African Republic
• Congo (Congo-Brazzaville)
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Myanmar (formerly Burma)
• Sao Tome and Principe

It is important to note that the availability of on-arrival visas may change, so it is always advisable to check the latest regulations and eligibility requirements before travelling. Additionally, visitors should be prepared to pay a specific fee for the on-arrival visa, which covers the issuance of the visa and any eligible extensions.

Frequently asked questions