Npra Bahrain: Understanding The Kingdom's Regulatory Framework

The Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs (NPRA) is a Bahraini government body that deals with citizenship, passports, visas, and residence permits. The NPRA is part of the Bahraini Ministry of Interior and has participated in events such as the GITEX GLOBAL exhibition in Dubai. The NPRA also offers visa extensions to eligible visitors and guarantors, which can be applied for online or at one of their service centres.

The NPRA deals with passport and visa issues

The NPRA, or Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs, is a Bahraini government body that deals with passport and visa issues, among other areas.

The NPRA offers a range of services related to passports. This includes standard services such as issuing new passports, renewing passports, and replacing lost or damaged passports. It also offers fast-track passport renewal and passport replacement via DHL for those who need their passports urgently. For those who are abroad, the NPRA can arrange for passport replacement. In addition, the NPRA handles court-ordered passport issuance and passport information modification.

Regarding visas, the NPRA offers multiple types of electronic visas (e-visas) for visitors to Bahrain. These include multiple-entry e-visas valid for different periods, such as 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years. There are also specific e-visas for GCC visitors and residents, as well as visas for family members of Bahraini citizens, including spouses and children. The NPRA also facilitates visa applications for foreign employees of GCC companies and artistic performing groups. For those seeking longer stays or permanent residency in Bahrain, the NPRA offers various residency permit options, including the Golden Residency for retired non-resident foreigners, foreigners owning real estate in Bahrain, talented individuals, and foreign residents who are employees or retirees.

The NPRA also provides services related to nationality, such as applying for Bahraini citizenship, retaining or waiving original nationality, and reclaiming original nationality. They also handle issues related to Bahraini wives' citizenship, such as retaining or waiving Bahraini or foreign nationality.

Overall, the NPRA is the main government body responsible for handling passport and visa issues, as well as residency and nationality matters, in Bahrain.

It is possible to extend a Bahrain visa

The Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA) is the Bahraini organisation responsible for managing the country's borders, including processing visas.

Extending a Bahrain Visa

Who Can Apply for a Bahrain Visa Extension?

Eligible applicants for a Bahrain visa extension include:

• Tourists who require additional time in Bahrain.
• Business visitors whose trips extend beyond their initial visa period.
• 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

Before requesting a Bahrain visa extension, applicants must gather the following documents to ensure a smooth application process:

• 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

Bahrain offers two methods of applying for a visa extension: online and in-person at the NPRA service centre.

Online Application:

• 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 Application:

• 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.

Bahrain Visa Extension Fees

The cost of extending a Bahrain visa 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 of 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

It is important to apply for the extension before your current visa expires, as overstaying your visa can lead to penalties. Incomplete applications may be rejected, so ensure you have all the required documents. Processing times for visa extensions can vary, so factor this into your plans.

The NPRA has a physical address and phone numbers

The NPRA, or Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs, has a physical address in Manama, the capital of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The full address is: NPRA, Road 1802, Building 4, Block 318, PO Box 331, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.

The NPRA can be contacted by phone or fax. The phone numbers are: (+973) 17399756, (+973) 17399626 and (+973) 17399615. The fax number is: (+973) 1753 5258.

The NPRA's office hours are Sunday to Thursday, 7:00 am to 2:00 pm (GMT+3). Messages will only be answered during these business hours, and a quick response cannot be guaranteed outside of these times.

There are two NPRA service centres in Bahrain. The first is located in Isa Town, Building 1074, Road 4025, Complex 0840, and is open Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 am to 7:00 pm. The second is in Muharraq, Building 378, Sheikh Hamad Street, Complex 211, Fourth Floor, and is also open Sunday to Thursday, 7:30 am to 7:00 pm.

The NPRA is responsible for handling matters related to nationality, passports and residence affairs in Bahrain. This includes issuing, renewing and replacing passports, as well as visa and residence permit applications and extensions.

The NPRA has an online presence

The NPRA, or Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs, is an agency within the Ministry of Interior of Bahrain. It handles matters related to citizenship, passports, and residence permits, including visa applications and extensions.

The website offers detailed guidance on various visa categories, including e-visas, tourist visas, and visa extensions. It outlines the specific requirements, procedures, and necessary documents for each type of visa application or request. For instance, individuals seeking a Bahrain visa extension can find information on eligibility, application methods (online or in-person), required documents, and applicable fees. The online portal allows applicants to submit their extension requests and make payments conveniently.

Additionally, the NPRA website provides contact information for both NPRA offices within Bahrain and visa offices outside the country. This includes phone numbers, fax numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses for in-person enquiries. The website also features a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section, addressing common queries and providing quick answers to visitors.

The online presence of the NPRA, through its website and participation in events like the GITEX GLOBAL exhibition, demonstrates its commitment to accessibility and transparency. By providing comprehensive information and digital services, the NPRA streamlines processes for individuals seeking visa-related services, empowering them to navigate the necessary procedures efficiently and effectively.

The NPRA is part of the Bahraini Ministry of Interior

The NPRA, or Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs, is a department within Bahrain's Ministry of Interior. It is responsible for handling matters related to citizenship, passports, and residence permits in the country. The NPRA assists individuals in applying for, renewing, or replacing passports, as well as addressing issues related to retaining or changing their nationality.

The NPRA also plays a significant role in visa and residence permit applications and extensions. They offer a range of visa options, including multiple-entry electronic visas for various durations and specific visas for different categories of applicants, such as family members of Bahraini citizens or foreign employees of GCC companies. The department provides detailed guidelines and required documentation for each type of visa and permit, ensuring a smooth process for visitors, tourists, and residents in Bahrain.

Additionally, the NPRA actively participates in international events and exhibitions, such as the GITEX GLOBAL exhibition in Dubai, showcasing their commitment to staying updated with global advancements and fostering collaboration with other nations.

As part of the Bahraini Ministry of Interior, the NPRA upholds the rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Bahrain while facilitating efficient and accessible services for individuals seeking passport, visa, and residency-related assistance. Their work contributes to the smooth management of Bahrain's citizenship, immigration, and residence affairs.

Frequently asked questions