Bahrain Visa: Entry requirements and travel information for Bahrain

Are you unsure about whether you need a visa for your trip to Bahrain? This guide is here to assist you in understanding if a visa is necessary, identifying the right type for your journey, and guiding you through the application process.

What’s a Bahrain Tourist eVisa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Bahrain Tourist eVisa for?

Citizens from over 200 countries can apply for the Bahrain Tourist eVisa. This includes the United States, Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, India, South Africa, Kenya, Brazil, Argentina, and more.

Use our iVisa Checker Tool to find out your eligibility.

Who’s not eligible for a Bahrain Tourist eVisa?

• Individuals holding diplomatic or official passports.

• Citizens of countries not included in the list of eligible countries for the Bahrain Tourist eVisa.

• Travelers who have previously been denied entry into Bahrain or have a history of overstaying their visa during past visits.

What’s the purpose of the Bahrain Tourist eVisa?

This eVisa is designed for short-term travel, specifically for activities like tourism, visiting friends or family, and participating in business-related events such as conferences or meetings.

How long can you stay with a Bahrain Tourist eVisa?

The Multiple entry visa is valid for 90 days after arrival and allows for several entries, with each visit not exceeding 30 days per entry. The single-entry visa, also valid for 90 days upon arrival, permits a one-time stay in Bahrain for up to two weeks.

What’s a Bahrain Tourist Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Bahrain Tourist Visa for?

• Individuals from countries that aren't eligible for the Bahrain Tourist eVisa.

• Nationals from countries who can’t apply for a Bahrain Tourist eVisa and must have a local guarantor in Bahrain, either a commercial entity or an individual, to obtain the visa​​.

Who’s not eligible for a Bahrain Tourist Visa?

• Individuals from countries eligible for the Bahrain eVisa or have visa-free access.

• Travelers holding diplomatic or official passports.

• Those who have previously been denied entry to Bahrain or have overstayed on prior visits.

What’s the purpose of the Bahrain Tourist Visa?

This visa is primarily for tourism and sightseeing, visiting friends or family, and attending business meetings or conferences. However, it does not permit employment or long-term studies in Bahrain.

How long can you stay with a Bahrain Tourist Visa?

The visa typically allows for single or multiple entries, with each stay's duration varying depending on the applicant's nationality and specific visa regulations. These stays generally range from a few days to several weeks.

What’s a Bahrain GCC Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Bahrain GCC Visa for?

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain itself.

Who’s not eligible for a Bahrain GCC Visa?

• Non-GCC nationals.

• GCC residents who are not citizens of a GCC country.

What’s the purpose of the Bahrain GCC Visa?

It allows for easier movement among the GCC member states, simplifying travel for business, tourism, or family visits.

How long can you stay with a Bahrain GCC Visa?

The duration varies depending on agreements between GCC countries. It often allows multiple entries and can be valid for a period consistent with the traveler's purpose and duration of stay in the member states.

What’s a Bahrain Transit Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Bahrain Transit Visa for?

Citizens of most countries who need to pass through Bahrain's airport. Special conditions may apply depending on the traveler's nationality and the length of the transit period.

Who’s not eligible for a Bahrain Transit Visa?

• Travelers from countries with visa exemption agreements for short stays or transits in Bahrain.

• Individuals with a history of visa violations in Bahrain or other countries.

What’s the purpose of the Bahrain Transit Visa?

• Permitting transit through Bahrain for connecting flights.

• Short layovers in Bahrain.

How long can you stay with a Bahrain Transit Visa?

This visa generally allows a stay of a few hours up to a couple of days, depending on the transit requirements. The visa's validity is typically linked to the duration of the transit period, and it usually allows for a single entry.

What’s a Bahrain Business Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Bahrain Business Visa for?

Business travelers from countries that don't have visa exemption agreements with Bahrain. It's suitable for professionals, entrepreneurs, and representatives of companies looking to engage in business activities in Bahrain.

Who’s not eligible for a Bahrain Business Visa?

• Travelers seeking to engage in employment or long-term business ventures in Bahrain.

• Tourists or individuals not involved in business-related activities.

What’s the purpose of the Bahrain Business Visa?

• Attending business meetings, conferences, or seminars.

• Engaging in short-term business negotiations or exploratory business visits.

How long can you stay with a Bahrain Business Visa?

The visa usually allows for single or multiple entries with a stay ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the specific business needs.

What’s a Bahrain Family Visit Visa and who’s it for?

Who’s the Bahrain Family Visit Visa for?

Foreign nationals who wish to visit family members residing in Bahrain, such as spouses, children, or parents.

Who’s not eligible for a Bahrain Family Visit Visa?

• Individuals without immediate family members in Bahrain.

• Travelers seeking to use the visa for tourism or business purposes.

What’s the purpose of the Bahrain Family Visit Visa?

Visiting immediate family members residing in Bahrain.

How long can you stay with a Bahrain Family Visit Visa?

It typically allows a stay of up to one month, which may be extended depending on the circumstances. The visa is usually granted as a single-entry permit, although a multiple-entry option might be available under certain conditions.

What are the Bahrain long-term visa options and who are they for?

Bahrain offers a variety of long-term visa options to accommodate different needs, including study, business, employment, and long-term residency. Here's a brief overview of some of them:

• Work visa: This is for foreign nationals planning to work in Bahrain and requires an employment contract and sponsorship from a Bahraini company.

• Student visa: For individuals planning to pursue higher education or engage in long-term academic research in Bahrain.

• Artist visa and training visa: These are specialized visas for artists and individuals seeking professional training in Bahrain.

• Self-Sponsorship residency permits: These permits are available for investors, retirees, and property owners who meet certain financial requirements.

• Investor visa: Aimed at individuals investing in Bahraini businesses or initiating new enterprises.

• Golden Residency Visa: This is a long-term residency option for individuals who meet specific criteria, often related to investment, entrepreneurship, or possessing special skills.

We do not handle Tourist Visa, Transit Visa, Business Visa, Family Visit Visa, GCC Visa or long-term visa applications. For details on how to apply for them, you should visit the Bahrain Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Staying healthy in Bahrain: Here’s what you need to know

Bahrain's healthcare comprises both public and private medical facilities, catering to a wide range of healthcare needs. Here's a breakdown of essential health-related information for travelers to Bahrain.

Make sure to stay updated on routine vaccines

• Common recommendations include vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and routine vaccinations such as MMR, DTP, Varicella, and polio. Be particularly mindful of any yellow fever vaccine requirements if you're arriving from a country where yellow fever is present.

• Keep updated with Bahrain’s COVID-19 requirements, such as quarantine, testing, or vaccine certificates, through your airline or the Bahrain Ministry of Health website.

Medical facilities

• In Bahrain’s major cities and urban centers, you will find a range of private hospitals and clinics offering high-quality medical care. However, in more remote areas, medical facilities might be less advanced, so plan accordingly.

• Pharmacies are also widely accessible for over-the-counter medications and advice.

Health insurance

Obtaining health insurance before your trip is highly advisable.

Medical care in Bahrain, especially in private facilities, can be expensive. Make sure your insurance plan adequately covers significant medical expenses.

Before you travel, confirm with your insurance provider that your policy includes the necessary coverage. Ideal coverage should encompass:

• Compensation for trip cancellations, delays, and interruptions.

• Coverage for medical expenses and the cost of medical evacuation.

• Insurance for lost baggage.

Things to be aware of when visiting Bahrain

Keep an extra eye on the following to keep healthy and safe during your trip to Bahrain:

1. Extreme heat: Bahrain experiences intense heat, particularly during the summer months. Take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

2. Be aware of dust storms: Occasional dust storms can occur in Bahrain. If you have respiratory issues, take appropriate measures.

3. Respect local customs: Understanding and respecting Bahrain’s customs and laws is important for a smooth stay.

Medication for personal use

If you're bringing medications into Bahrain, here are some important guidelines:

• Declare all medications: It's crucial to declare any prescription or controlled medication upon arrival.

• Original packaging: Keep all medicines in their original packaging with clear prescription labels.

• Prescription or doctor's letter: Carry a valid prescription or a letter from your doctor explaining the need for each medication.

• Check for restrictions: Confirm that your medications are permitted in Bahrain. Some substances are restricted or prohibited. The National Health Regulatory Authority Bahrain provides detailed information on medication regulations, including a list of controlled substances.

• Quantity control: Bring only the quantity of medication needed for your stay.