Last updated: September 2026. Visa policies may change; always verify current requirements on evisa.gov.bh before applying.
Non-GCC citizens with a valid GCC residence permit must obtain a Bahrain eVisa or visa on arrival. The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents costs between 9 BHD and 64 BHD; the permit must have at least three months of remaining validity.
Only GCC citizens enter visa-free with a national ID. All other expatriates with a GCC residence permit must apply for the Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents or obtain a visa on arrival at any entry point, including the King Fahad Causeway.
Who Qualifies for a Bahrain eVisa as a GCC Resident?
Non-GCC nationals with a valid GCC residence permit held for over three months qualify for the Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents, excluding labourers and Iranian citizens. The system, launched in October 2014, serves 205 eligible countries.
- Eligible applicants: Non-GCC nationals with a current GCC residence permit or visit visa from any GCC state (Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar), confirmed at evisa.gov.bh.
- Permit requirements: Residence permit held for over 3 months and valid for at least 3 more months at the time of application.
- Excluded occupations: Labourers are ineligible for the Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents.
- Excluded nationalities: Iranian citizens cannot apply; citizens of Iran, Kosovo, and North Korea require a Bahraini guarantor (commercial entity or individual).
- GCC citizens: Nationals of GCC countries enter Bahrain visa-free using a national ID card only.
Bahrain eVisa Types & Fees for GCC Residents
The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents offers four tiers: two-week single entry (BD9), three-month multiple entry (BD16), one-year multiple entry (BD44), and five-year multiple entry (BD64).
| Visa Type | Validity | Max Stay / Visit | Entries | App Fee | Visa Fee | Total (BHD) | AED |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two-week single entry | 2 weeks | 14 days | Single | BD4 | BD5 | BD9 | 87.69 |
| Three-month multiple entry | 3 months | 1 month | Multiple | BD4 | BD12 | BD16 | 155.89 |
| One-year multiple entry | 1 year | 90 days | Multiple | BD4 | BD40 | BD44 | 428.70 |
| Five-year multiple entry | 5 years | 90 days | Multiple | BD4 | BD60 | BD64 | n/a |
The BD4 application fee is non-refundable and paid on submission; the visa fee is paid after approval and may be refundable upon request if the application is rejected. After approval, the visa fee must be settled within 1 month or the application is cancelled. The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents must be used within 3 months of the approval date. Extension fee: BD25.
Required Documents & How to Apply for a Bahrain eVisa
The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents requires a passport valid 6 months, a GCC residence permit copy with 3 months remaining, a 3-month English bank statement showing 300-500 BD monthly income or USD 1,000 closing balance, a confirmed return ticket, and hotel booking or host passport and ID. Saudi Iqama holders need the passport page with GCC entry stamp, an Iqama copy, and SAR 3,000 balance. Applicants holding valid visit visas for the UK, US, Schengen area, UAE, or Saudi Arabia, or a US Green Card, may use these as supporting documents.
Visit evisa.gov.bh
Select “YES” for a GCC Residence Permit or Visit Visa.
Choose your GCC country
Enter purpose, detailed purpose, description, and nationality.
Upload documents and pay the BD 4 fee
Pay the application fee by card.
Receive a tracking number
Await email within 2-3 business days.
On approval, pay the visa fee and print the eVisa
Complete payment and print your approved eVisa.
No website or company operates on behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Contact [email protected] for queries; the Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents arrives by email.
Visa on Arrival vs eVisa & Key Warnings for GCC Residents
The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents offers pre-screened multi-duration entry; visa on arrival costs BD5 for 14 days but requires a skilled profession.
| Factor | eVisa | Visa on Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | BD9-BD64 | BD5 |
| Duration | 2 weeks-5 years | 14 days |
| Entries | Single or multiple | Single only |
| Pre-approval | Yes | No |
| Profession | No restriction | Skilled only |
| Entry ports | All ports | All ports incl. King Fahad Causeway |
The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents does not guarantee entry; fees are non-refundable if entry is denied, and payment does not guarantee approval. Holding a visa does not guarantee entry; travellers must meet all conditions upon arrival. Present a printed eVisa at the border. Extend via services.bahrain.bh for BD25 (ID copy required). Queries: [email protected].
FAQ: Bahrain eVisa for GCC Residents
How much does a Bahrain eVisa cost for GCC residents?
The Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents costs between 9 BHD (two-week single entry) and 64 BHD (five-year multiple entry). The BD4 application fee is non-refundable; the visa fee is paid upon approval. Three-month multiple entry totals 16 BHD; one-year multiple entry totals 44 BHD.
Can I get a Bahrain visa on arrival as a GCC resident?
Yes, GCC residents with a skilled profession can obtain a visa on arrival for 5 BHD at any entry point, valid for 14 days single entry. Requirements include a passport valid six months, a GCC residence permit valid six months, a return ticket, and proof of accommodation. Labourers are not eligible.
How long does the Bahrain eVisa processing take for GCC residents?
Standard processing takes 2 to 3 business days; up to 5 during peak periods. Apply at least 5 business days before travel during Islamic holidays.
What is the minimum bank balance required for a Bahrain eVisa?
Applicants need a three-month bank statement in English showing a minimum closing balance equivalent to USD 1,000. The official monthly income benchmark is 300 to 500 BHD as salary or pension, with a daily equivalent of 150 BHD per day of visit. The bank statement must be in the applicant’s name.
Can Saudi Iqama holders apply for a Bahrain eVisa?
Yes, Saudi Iqama holders must provide a copy of their Iqama, the passport page with the GCC entry stamp, and a three-month bank statement showing a minimum balance of SAR 3,000. Family visit visa holders must also submit the sponsor’s Iqama copy. A travel letter may be required for road entry via the King Fahad Causeway.
What happens if my Bahrain eVisa application is rejected?
Review the rejection email, gather corrected documents, and reapply through evisa.gov.bh. A new BD4 application fee is required for each submission. Common rejection reasons include insufficient bank balance, expired residence permits, and mismatched passport data. Contact [email protected] for guidance.
Is a digital residence permit accepted for the Bahrain eVisa application?
As of 2026, confirm with NPRA whether digital residence permits such as Absher digital Iqama or UAE ICP app documents are accepted. Physical copies of the GCC residence permit are recommended for the online upload. Contact [email protected] to verify before submitting.
What are the overstay penalties for a Bahrain eVisa?
Overstaying a Bahrain eVisa for GCC residents incurs daily fines and may result in an entry ban affecting future applications. Extensions can be requested through services.bahrain.bh for 25 BHD before the visa expires. The extension requires a copy of the applicant’s identity card and passport. Contact [email protected] for specific fine amounts.
