Bahrain Family Visa

The Bahrain Family Visa, also known as the Dependant Residency Permit, serves as a bridge for eligible family members to join their sponsored loved ones residing in Bahrain. This visa caters to spouses, children under 24 years old (unmarried and financially dependent), and potentially other dependent family members under specific conditions.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on securing a Bahrain Visa and a Dependants' Residency Permit. It outlines the eligibility criteria, necessary documentation, application process, associated fees, and expected processing times.

Importance of Family Visas in Bahrain: Strengthening Family Ties

Family visas are pivotal in Bahrain's society, embodying the kingdom's commitment to family values and social cohesion. By enabling families to live together, Bahrain fosters a supportive and integrated expatriate community, enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

Types of Family Visa In Bahrain.

Bahrain provides several Family eVisa options to support family reunification and visits. Each visa type is tailored to different lengths and purposes of stay,. This brief o featuring specific maximum stay durations, validity periods, and entry conditionsverview helps families select the visa that best fits their needs for visiting or staying in Bahrain.

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Visa type

Number of Entries

Stay Period

Validity

Family eVisa

Single

2 Weeks

2 Weeks

Family eVisa

Multiple

1 Month

3 Months

Family eVisa

Multiple

90 Days

1 Year

Bahrain's Visa on Arrival offers an easy entry solution, ideal for short-term visitors. It removes the need for pre-arrival visa applications, allowing travellers to apply directly at Bahrain's port of entry. Details may vary by country.

On-Arrival

Visa Name

Number of Entries

Stay Period

Validity

Family Visa

Single

2 Weeks

2 Weeks

Family Visa

Multiple

1 Month

1 Month

Family Visa

Multiple

6 Month

6 Month

Eligibility and Requirements:

To qualify for a Bahrain Family Visa, you must be a close family member of an individual who legally resides and works in Bahrain with a valid work permit. The sponsoring employee or worker must be registered with the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).

What are the required Documents for a Bahrain Family visa?

  • A valid passport with sufficient remaining validity.
  • The original birth certificate was translated into Arabic or English, if applicable.
  • The marriage certificate is translated into Arabic or English, if applicable.
  • Proof of relationship to the sponsor, such as a birth certificate for children.
  • Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances. These may include:
    • No objection letter from the dependant's other parent if applicable.
    • If applicable, the divorce certificate and a document demonstrating the sponsoring parent's custody of the dependants.
    • Death certificate of the other parent, if applicable.
  • For dependents residing in Bahrain with another type of visa, proof of valid status is required for at least seven working days before the application submission.
  • If required, provide proof of the sponsor's accommodation, such as the latest electricity bill or a lease agreement.

Application Process to Obtain a Bahrain Family Visa:

To apply for a Bahrain family e-visa, follow these concise steps:

  • Verify Visa Requirements:
    • Review the visa requirements, including validity, purpose, duration of stay, and number of entries.
  • Application Process:
    • Navigate to the Bahrain e-visa website: select the "Bahrain e-visa application form" option on the top right side of the homepage.
    • Enter General Information: Fill in details as per your passport (e.g., nationality, name, date of birth), and proceed.
    • Document Submission: Upload the required documents, such as passport and proof of relationship and accommodation details.
    • Processing Time Selection: Choose your preferred processing time. Your application will then be processed, and the outcome will be emailed to you.
  • Pay the Visa Fee:
    • Complete the application fee payment as indicated.
  • Visa Issuance:
    • After processing, you'll receive your e-visa via the registered email.

Bahrain Family e-Visa Processing Time

When applying for a Bahrain family e-visa, selecting the processing time that aligns with your travel plans is essential. Here's what you need to know:

  • Standard Processing: Typically takes 6-8 working days. Ideal for those without immediate travel plans.
  • Rush Processing: Available for an additional fee, reducing the wait to 4-6 working days. Suitable for more urgent travel.
  • Super Rush Processing: This service expedites processing to 2-4 working days for the most urgent needs with some extra cost.

Choose the processing option that best fits your schedule to ensure you receive your Bahrain family e-visa in time for your trip.

Bahrain Family e-Visa Costs

When applying for a Bahrain Family e-Visa, the following factors affect the cost:

  • Visa Category and Validity: Fees vary depending on the visa category and its validity period. Different types of visas with various durations have different fees.
  • Duration of Stay: Longer stays typically incur higher fees due to the extended legality of residency.
  • Applicant's Nationality: Visa fees may differ based on the applicant's home country, influenced by international agreements.
  • Processing Time: Expedited processing is available for an additional fee suitable for urgent applications.
  • Additional Services: Options such as multiple entry permissions can increase the visa fee, providing greater travel flexibility.

Refer to this Bahrain e-visa fee page for accurate and current fee information.

Living in Bahrain on a Family Visa

  • Rights and Privileges of Family Visa Holders in Bahrain

    Holders of a Bahrain family visa enjoy a range of rights and privileges, from access to healthcare and education to opportunities for employment. Understanding these rights is crucial for maximising the benefits of residency in Bahrain.

  • Accessing Healthcare and Education for Dependents

    Providing healthcare and education for dependents is a key consideration for families. Bahrain offers quality services in both sectors, ensuring family members can access the support they need.

  • Employment Opportunities for Family Visa Holders

    Exploring employment opportunities is a priority for many family visa holders in Bahrain. The local labour market offers various options for skilled and unskilled workers, contributing to the economic stability of expatriate families.

  • Cultural Integration and Community Life in Bahrain

    Integrating into Bahrain's rich cultural tapestry and engaging with community life enhances the expatriate experience. Participation in local traditions and community events fosters a sense of belonging and contributes to the multicultural fabric of Bahraini society.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Addressing Delays in Visa Processing

    Delays in Visa Processing can be frustrating. Understanding the common causes of these delays and how to address them can help applicants manage their expectations and expedite resolution.

  • What to Do If Your Family Visa Application Is Denied

    A denied visa application is not the end of the road. Applicants can take specific steps to understand the reasons for the denial and explore avenues for reapplication or appeal.

  • Renewing and Extending Bahrain Family Visas

    The renewal and extension of Bahrain family visas are critical for maintaining legal residency status. Familiarity with the procedures and deadlines ensures uninterrupted residency in Bahrain.

FAQ

The processing timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances but generally ranges from 6-8 days.

You have the right to appeal the decision within a specific timeframe outlined by the Bahraini authorities. Seeking guidance from experienced immigration professionals can be beneficial during this process.

While spouses and children under specific conditions are typically eligible, bringing parents or siblings on a Family Visa generally requires exploring alternative visa options through Bahrain's Nationality, Passports, and Residency Affairs (NPRA) department.

There are associated fees for application processing, medical tests, and health insurance, with the exact costs subject to change. Consulting the Bahrain fee page above for the latest fee structure.

While legal assistance is not mandatory, consulting an experienced immigration professional can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the application process, especially for complex situations.

The sponsor, typically a working expatriate residing in Bahrain, is required for family visa applications. If your spouse, the potential sponsor, is not currently residing in Bahrain, this may impede your ability to apply for a family visa.