Bahrain Visit Visa

Bahrain Visit Visa

To visit Bahrain, most travelers will need a visa, although some nationalities are eligible for visa exemptions or visa-on-arrival. Here’s a breakdown of the various types of visit visas for Bahrain and how to apply for them:

1. Tourist Visa

  • Duration: Usually 14 days or 30 days, depending on your nationality and the type of visa.

  • Eligibility: Available for nationals of many countries, though it may require applying in advance or at the port of entry.

  • Requirements:

    • A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.

    • Passport-sized photos (typically 2).

    • Completed visa application form (online or paper).

    • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking).

    • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements).

    • Return ticket or onward travel proof.

  • Application Process:

    • eVisa: You can apply for a tourist visa online through the official Bahrain eVisa website.

    • Visa on Arrival (VoA): Citizens of certain countries may be eligible for a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport or land border crossings.

    • Bahrain Embassy/Consulate: Alternatively, you can apply at a Bahraini embassy or consulate if you are not eligible for an eVisa or VoA.

2. eVisa (Electronic Visa)

  • Eligibility: Citizens of many countries can apply for an eVisa to Bahrain. This is the simplest and fastest way to obtain a visa for many nationalities.

  • Duration: Typically 14 days or 30 days, depending on the visa type.

  • Application Process:

    • Visit the official Bahrain eVisa portal (https://www.evisa.gov.bh).

    • Complete the application form with personal details, passport information, and travel plans.

    • Upload the necessary documents (passport photo, scan of passport bio page, etc.).

    • Pay the visa fee online.

    • Once approved, you will receive the eVisa by email, which you should print out and present when arriving in Bahrain.

  • Processing Time: Usually takes 3-5 business days.

  • Fee: Around USD 30 for a tourist visa.

3. Visa on Arrival (VoA)

  • Eligibility: Citizens from certain countries (including the USA, EU, GCC countries, and some others) may be eligible for a visa on arrival for stays of up to 14 or 30 days.

  • Duration: Typically 14 days or 30 days.

  • Requirements:

    • Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.

    • Proof of accommodation in Bahrain.

    • Sufficient funds for the stay.

    • Payment of the visa fee (usually paid in cash upon arrival).

  • Process: You can apply for a visa on arrival directly at Bahrain International Airport or at designated land border points. It is advised to check if your nationality qualifies before traveling.

4. Multiple Entry Visa

  • Duration: Usually valid for 6 months to 1 year.

  • Eligibility: For individuals who need to visit Bahrain multiple times for business or other specific purposes.

  • Requirements:

    • A valid passport.

    • A letter of invitation from a Bahraini company or institution.

    • Proof of multiple travel plans.

  • Application Process: Apply through the Bahrain embassy or consulate with the required supporting documents.

5. Business Visa

  • Duration: Typically 30 days or as specified by the company sponsoring the visit.

  • Requirements:

    • A valid passport.

    • A letter of invitation from a Bahraini business or company.

    • Proof of business activities, such as meeting schedules.

    • Return ticket and proof of accommodation.

  • Application Process: Apply at a Bahraini embassy or consulate with the business invitation letter and other supporting documents.

6. Transit Visa

  • Duration: Up to 7 days.

  • Eligibility: For travelers passing through Bahrain on their way to another destination.

  • Requirements:

    • A valid passport.

    • A visa for the next destination.

    • Proof of onward travel (e.g., flight ticket).

  • Application Process: Can be applied for at the Bahrain embassy or consulate or upon arrival, depending on nationality.

7. GCC Nationals

  • Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) do not need a visa to enter Bahrain. They can travel freely with a national ID card.

How to Apply: (Click here for online apply).

  1. Online (eVisa): The easiest way is through the Bahrain eVisa portal, especially for citizens of eligible countries.

  2. Visa on Arrival: For eligible nationals, simply proceed to the immigration counter at the port of entry (airport or land border) and apply for a visa on arrival.

  3. Embassy/Consulate: If you prefer applying in advance or are not eligible for an eVisa or VoA, visit a Bahraini embassy or consulate in your home country.

Key Considerations:

  • Visa Fees: Fees may vary depending on your nationality and visa type. Generally, tourist visas cost around USD 30.

  • Extension: Tourist visas can sometimes be extended for an additional 14 or 30 days within Bahrain. You can do this at the Nationality, Passport, and Residence Affairs office.

  • Visa Validity: Be aware of the visa’s validity period. Overstaying your visa can result in fines or deportation.

Visa Exemptions:

  • Citizens of GCC countries: As mentioned, they are exempt from visa requirements.

  • Other exemptions: Some nationalities are exempt from a visa for short stays. It’s best to check the official eVisa website or consult the Bahrain embassy for the most up-to-date list.