Bahrain Visa On Arrival

The Bahrain Visa on Arrival offers a convenient entry option for travellers, allowing them to secure a visa directly upon reaching Bahrain. This service streamlines the process of entering the country, making it accessible for visitors from various nationalities for short stays ranging from one week to two months. 

Designed to facilitate hassle-free travel, visitors must meet specific criteria, including holding a valid passport and having sufficient funds for their stay. This flexibility and convenience make exploring Bahrain's rich culture and attractions easier for international guests.

What are the different types of Bahrain visas on Arrival?

Travellers can choose from various Bahrain visa-on-arrival alternatives depending on why they are visiting and how long they intend to remain in the nation. Typical Bahrain visa categories upon arrival include

  • Tourist Visa: For travellers visiting Bahrain for leisure and sightseeing.
  • Business Visa: Intended for those coming to Bahrain for business meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities.
  • GCC Residents Visa: Available for GCC residents holding certain professional positions, allowing them to enter Bahrain.
  • Family Visit Visa: For those visiting family members residing in Bahrain.
  • Transit Visa: For travellers passing through Bahrain, allowing a short stay.

Bahrain Visa on Arrival: List of Countries

Eligibility for a Bahrain visa on arrival typically includes travellers from specific countries as designated by Bahraini immigration policies. Additionally, GCC residents holding high professional status may also be eligible.

The following nationals are eligible to apply for a Bahrain Visa on Arrival (VoA):

Europe

  • Andorra
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Falkland Islands
  • Finland
  • France
  • French Guyana
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • San Marino
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Ukraine
  • United Kingdom
  • Vatican City

Asia

  • Brunei
  • China
  • Cyprus
  • Georgia
  • Hong Kong
  • India (conditions apply)
  • Japan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Macao
  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • South Korea
  • Thailand
  • America
  • Argentina
  • Bolivia
  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Columbia
  • Ecuador
  • Guyana
  • Mexico
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Suriname
  • United States
  • Uruguay
  • Venezuela

Oceania

  • Australia
  • New Zealand

Requirements for Bahrain visa on arrival

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for six months from the arrival date.
  • Return or Onward Ticket: Must have proof of a return or onward journey.
  • Sufficient Funds Evidence: Bank or credit card statements showing adequate funds for the stay.
  • Accommodation Evidence: Confirmation of accommodation arrangements in Bahrain.
  • Business Documents: Business visitors must provide relevant documents, like an invitation letter or business license.

Additional Documents for Bahrain Visa on Arrival:

  • Employment Restriction: Visitors cannot engage in paid or unpaid work during their stay in Bahrain.
  • GCC Resident Permit: Must possess a GCC country resident permit for at least 3 months.

How to apply for a visa upon arrival in Bahrain

Steps for Bahrain Visa on Arrival:

  • Check Eligibility: Verify if you're eligible for a Visa on Arrival by reviewing Bahrain's entry requirements.
  • Prepare Documents: Collect all necessary documents, such as a valid passport, return ticket, proof of funds, and accommodation details.
  • Arrival in Bahrain: Enter Bahrain through Bahrain International Airport or another entry point.
  • Fill Out Application form: Complete the Bahrain visa application form provided by immigration upon arrival.
  • Document Submission: Present your passport and supporting documents to immigration officials.
  • Visa Fee Payment: The visa fee can typically be paid in cash or with a credit card.
  • Visa Issuance: After approval, receive a visa stamp in your passport detailing the visa's validity and any conditions.

Note: Application procedures may differ based on nationality, visit purpose, and entry conditions.

What is the cost upon arrival of a Bahraini visa?

A Bahrain Visa on Arrival costs around 5 BHD (Bahraini Dinars) for a short stay to around 25 BHD for a more extended or multiple-entry visa. However, it's essential to remember that a Bahrain Visa on arrival cost is influenced by several factors:

  • Visa Type and Length: Fees change with the visa category and how long it's valid.
  • Stay Duration: Longer visits usually cost more because the visa covers a more extended period.
  • Nationality: The fee can vary by the applicant's country due to specific agreements.
  • Extra Options: Features like multiple entries might raise the fee, offering more travel freedom.

Before travelling, you must check the latest and most accurate fee information directly from Bahraini immigration sources or the Bahrain eVisa website.

Duration of time to obtain a Bahrain visa upon arrival

A Bahrain Visa on Arrival is generally issued quickly upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport or another entry point. The processing time is typically brief, often just minutes, allowing travellers to get their visa stamped in their passport and enter Bahrain soon after arrival.

However, processing times can vary based on traveller volume time of day, among other variables, potentially leading to lines or delays. Travellers should allocate adequate time for visa processing and consult the most current information on our website before their journey.

Bahrain eVisa vs. Bahrain Visa On Arrival: Differences

Bahrain Visa on Arrival

The Bahrain Visa on Arrival is available directly at the country's entry points, eliminating the need for prior visa application processes. Primarily intended for short visits related to business or tourism, the specific requirements and conditions to obtain this visa can differ. It offers a convenient option for travellers who visit Bahrain on short notice or prefer to arrange their visa upon arrival.

Bahrain eVisa

In contrast, the Bahrain eVisa must be applied online before the traveller arrives in the country. This electronic visa system allows applicants to secure their visas remotely, bypassing the need to visit a Bahraini embassy or consulate physically. Typically, the eVisa process is quicker than applying for a traditional visa and grants visas digitally, which can be printed or shown on a mobile device when travelling.

FAQ

If you overstay your Visa on Arrival in Bahrain, you may face fines, legal consequences, and restrictions on future travel to Bahrain.

The visa-on-arrival process is done at the entry point into Bahrain, offering convenience without pre-planning. In contrast, an eVisa requires online application and approval before travel, providing certainty and often faster entry upon arrival.

A Visa on Arrival cannot directly be converted to a work visa. You would need to leave Bahrain and apply for a work visa through the proper channels, typically involving sponsorship by an employer in Bahrain.

The requirement for a PCR test to enter Bahrain can change based on the current health guidelines. Before your trip, it's best to check the latest travel advisories or Bahraini government sources.

The ease of obtaining a Bahrain visa varies by nationality, visa type, and individual circumstances, but Bahrain generally has a straightforward visa application process, especially for tourists and GCC residents.

A Visa on Arrival is obtained directly upon entering Bahrain, and it is suitable for short-term visits without prior application. A tourist visa, including eVisas, is typically obtained before arrival, often allowing for a more extended stay.

When you receive a Visa on Arrival in Bahrain, immigration authorities usually stamp or affix it to your passport at the entry point.