Entry requirements for Bahrain

Visa requirements for Bahrain

Entry into Bahrain is generally subject to visa requirements – however, the requirements differ based on nationality, purpose of travel, and duration of stay. Bahrain offers various visa options that allow for both short trips and longer stays. While many travelers can conveniently apply for their visa online or obtain it upon arrival, special regulations apply to certain countries or purposes of travel. Therefore, it is essential for independent travelers to familiarize themselves with the current regulations in advance.

Nationalities and visa obligations

For most international visitors, a visa is required for entry into Bahrain. Citizens of the EU, Switzerland, Austria, Turkey, and many other countries can apply for a visa either online in advance (e-visa) or upon arrival at the airport. Both options are straightforward and suitable for tourist or business short stays.

Exceptions apply for nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states – namely Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. They do not require a visa and may enter Bahrain with their national identity card – a special arrangement that promotes travel freedom within the region. Holders of diplomatic or special service passports from countries like France, Japan, or Israel may also enter visa-free for up to 90 days.

In contrast, citizens of certain countries like Iran, Kosovo, or North Korea face stricter requirements: they not only need a visa but also a Bahraini sponsor – such as a private individual or company that guarantees for their stay. In general, all visitors' passports must be valid for at least three months beyond the date of entry. Those who want to be on the safe side should check the current requirements for their country of origin with official authorities beforehand.

Visa types for Bahrain

Tourist visas – the right choice for your holiday

Those wishing to visit Bahrain as tourists generally need a visa – but the entry process is straightforward and well-organized. Independent travelers from Germany and many other countries can choose between an electronic visa (e-visa) or a Visa-on-Arrival, which is issued directly upon entry into the country.

The e-visa has the advantage that it can be applied for online in advance – ideal for those who like to plan their trip ahead. It is available in different variations, with lengths of stay of 14, 30, or up to 90 days, and is valid for a whole year. The application is made through the official platform of the Bahraini immigration authority.

Alternatively, there is the Visa-on-Arrival, which is available upon entry for many nationalities – including German travelers. It is typically issued for 14 or 30 days and can be applied for at the airport for a fee.

Regardless of the visa type: the passport must be valid for at least three months upon entry. Tourist visas are valid solely for private stays such as vacations, family visits, or leisure activities – professional activities are not allowed. Those who wish to explore Bahrain in a relaxed and safe manner should choose the appropriate visa in a timely manner and stay informed about the current regulations.

Visa application process

Those traveling to Bahrain must first choose the appropriate type of visa and submit the corresponding application. The exact process depends on whether you apply for your visa online in advance, through an embassy, or directly upon arrival. Regardless of the procedure, early preparation is recommended – this helps avoid unnecessary delays upon entry.

Electronic visa application

The most convenient and recommended option for many travelers is the e-visa, which can be applied for online through the official portal of the Bahraini Ministry of Interior. The application includes the input of personal data, uploading necessary documents such as a passport copy, return flight ticket, and hotel confirmation, as well as payment of the visa fee.

The processing time is usually 3 to 5 business days, but in individual cases can be shorter. Once approved, you will receive the visa by email – it should either be printed or carried digitally. The e-visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issue and allows stays of usually 7 to 14 days, or longer for certain nationalities (e.g., UK, Ireland). Ideally, apply for your e-visa at least a week before departure.

Traditional visa application

Those who cannot apply for their visa online or plan a longer stay – for example as an expat, business traveler, or for family visits – can also submit the application through a Bahraini embassy or consulate in their home country. Processing times vary here and can take several weeks for certain types of visas. Especially for work or residence visas, applications should therefore be made several weeks in advance.Alternatively, many nationalities have the option of a

Visa on Arrival, which is issued directly at the airport for a fee. The length of stay is generally 14 days. This option is especially suited for short trips but is less flexible and is primarily recommended when something needs to be arranged spontaneously.Required documents for visa applications

For the successful application of a visa to Bahrain, a complete and careful compilation of the necessary documents is essential. Depending on the type of visa – whether tourist, business, or long-term – the requirements may vary slightly. Below is an overview of the common documents you should have ready.

In general, you will need:

A valid passport

• , which is valid for at least three months beyond the date of entry (recommended: six months). Children require their own passport.A current passport photo
  
  
• , which meets international biometric standards.Proof of onward or return travel
  
  
• , e.g., a flight ticket.Proof of your accommodation
  
  
• , such as a hotel booking or an invitation from a host.Evidence of sufficient financial means
  
  
• , such as current bank statements (for tourists at least €700 spread over three months).An email address
  
  
• for the delivery of the visa (for online applications).A debit or credit card
  
  
• for payment of the visa fees (for e-visas).A fully completed and signed application form.
  
  
• Depending on the type of visa, additional requirements apply:
  
  

For

• business visas an official invitation letter from a company in Bahrain (No Objection Certificate) and possibly proof of employment are required.Those applying for a
  
  
• work visa need a valid employment contract, a work permit from the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), and possibly a medical examination.For
  
  
• family visas proof of kinship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates) and financial proof from the sponsor must be submitted.For
  
  
• investor or special visas such as the Golden Residency Visa, proof of investments or special qualifications is required.Since the requirements can vary depending on nationality and purpose of travel, it is advisable to check the current requirements in advance with the responsible embassy or on the official website of the Bahraini Ministry of Interior.
  
  

Visa-on-Arrival in Bahrain

Requirements and eligibility

For many independent travelers, the Visa-on-Arrival is a convenient way to enter Bahrain without hassle. Nationals from a total of 68 countries – including all EU member states, Switzerland, Austria, Turkey, and Russia – can obtain their visa directly upon arrival at the airport. German travelers also benefit from this arrangement and can apply for a visa for a stay of up to 14 days for a fee of approximately 5 Bahraini Dinars (about €12). For longer stays or multiple entries, e-visas are available for advance application.

For the Visa-on-Arrival to be granted, certain requirements must be met: the passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the entry date. Additionally, a confirmed return flight ticket and proof of accommodation are required – such as a hotel booking or, for private stays, proof of the host's residency status. Travelers must also present current bank statements showing a minimum balance of around $800. During the stay, any form of employment – whether paid or unpaid – is prohibited. An extension of the visa is possible at the Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs (NPRA) in Bahrain.

Customs regulations for Bahrain

Anyone traveling to Bahrain should not only be informed about visa formalities but also about the applicable customs regulations. Especially when importing cash, gifts, technology, or consumables, certain rules apply. Some goods are completely prohibited, others are only allowed in limited quantities, or are subject to declaration. Being well-prepared in this regard helps avoid delays upon entry – or even legal consequences.

Prohibited and restricted items

Certain products cannot be imported into Bahrain at all. These include weapons, drugs, pornographic material, and narcotic substances without official permission. Also, animal and plant souvenirs that fall under the CITES agreement require prior approval. Cultured pearls and ivory products are also banned.

The import of alcohol is particularly strictly regulated. Only non-Muslims can carry alcoholic beverages – in limited quantities that may vary slightly depending on the source (e.g., up to three bottles of spirits or four bottles of wine). It is also important to consider the high customs rate of 125% on alcohol. Consumption is only allowed in licensed establishments, not in public.

For medications: personal medicines are allowed; however, prescription drugs should be substantiated by a medical certificate in English. Medications with narcotic substances are only allowed with special permission. Electronic devices for personal use (such as laptops or smartphones) can be imported without issues. However, those carrying larger quantities of technology must be prepared for a declaration obligation.

There are also limits for cash and gifts: Cash amounts exceeding 6,000 BHD (or the equivalent in foreign currency) must be declared. Gifts are usually not allowed to exceed a total value of 250 to 300 BHD.

For smooth entry, it is advisable to check the latest information from the Bahraini embassy or customs in advance – as changes in regulations are possible at any time.