The Bahrain Golden Residency Visa provides an excellent pathway for foreign investors, retirees, and highly skilled professionals to secure long-term residency in the Kingdom of Bahrain. To be eligible for the Golden Residency Visa, applicants must meet specific conditions and criteria, which we have outlined below.

Before you begin your application process, make sure to review the vital details carefully. And if you are planning a shorter stay or visit, you can also apply for Bahrain eVisa online, making entry into Bahrain simple and convenient.

What does the Bahrain Golden Residency Visa Programme entail?

The Bahrain Golden Residency Visa Program offers a 10-year residency to attract foreign investors. Unlike the standard 2- to 3-year employment visa, it permits a longer stay for investors.

Who Can Apply for the Bahrain Golden Residency Visa?

The Golden Residency Visa is accessible to a wide range of applicants, including:

• Property Owners: Foreign nationals owning property in Bahrain.
• Residents (Employees and Retirees): Those currently living in Bahrain, whether working or retired.
• Retirees: Individuals seeking a peaceful retirement in the welcoming environment of Bahrain.
• Highly Talented Individuals: Exceptional talents who can contribute to Bahrain's growth and innovation.

The Application Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Your Golden Residency Visa

To obtain a Bahrain Golden Residency Visa, the applicants are required to submit certain documents. Below, we have included both common as well as applicant-specific requirements. Please go through it.

Common Requirements for All Applicants

1. Passport: Must be valid for more than 6 months at the time of arrival in Bahrain.
2. Bank Statement: A 6-month bank statement showing recent transactions.
3. Health Insurance: A valid health insurance certificate in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Requirements by Applicant Category

Retirees

• Income Proof: Proof of a basic salary of 4,000 Bahraini Dinars or more.
• Previous Residence Permit: If previously held.

Property Owners

• Property Deed: Must own property in Bahrain worth at least 200,000 Bahraini Dinars.
• Previous Residence Permit: If previously held.

Highly Talented Individuals

• Talent Proof: Certificate or evidence of the individual's gifted nature.
• Previous Residence Permits: If any exist.

Residents (Employees and Retirees)

• Salary Proof: Average basic salary of 2,000 Bahraini Dinars or more over the last 5 years.
• Residency Requirement: Must have been a resident for the past 5 years.

The Application Process

Step 1: Submit Application: Submit your application through the official Bahrain government portal after creating an eKey account

Step 2: Pay Fees: Pay the non-refundable application fee (discussed in detail below)

Step 3: Wait for Processing: The processing time is typically 5 to 10 working days, though it may vary

Step 4: Receive Visa: Once approved, you will be issued the 10-year Golden Residency Visa

Bahrain Golden Residency Visa: Cost, Processing Time, and Validity

The Bahrain Golden Residency Visa offers a compelling pathway to long-term residency in the Kingdom. Here is a breakdown of key considerations:

Cost:

There are two main fees associated with the Golden Visa:

• Application Fee: This non-refundable fee is typically around 5 Bahraini Dinars (BHD) per person.
• Residency Issuance Fee: Upon approval, a residency issuance fee of 300 BHD per person applies.

Processing Time:

1. For Employees, Property Owners, and Retiree Categories: 5 working days
2. For Applicants under the Talent Category: Up to 10 working days

Validity:

The Golden Residency Visa is valid for 10 years from the date of issue, unlike any other standard residency visa. The best thing about it is that it can be indefinite if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Experience the Benefits of Long-term Residency in Bahrain

• Long-term Residency: It offers the chance to settle down in the Bahraini Kingdom for the long term.
• Lower Cost of Living: Compared to other Gulf countries, Bahrain boasts a 30% lower cost of living.
• Family Sponsorship: Your family can reside with you in Bahrain.
• Work Authorization: The Golden Visa grants you the right to work in the country.
• Unrestricted Multiple Entry: Permits unrestricted multiple entries into the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Tips for a Successful Bahrain Golden Visa Application

• Confirm Eligibility: Before applying, confirm whether you are eligible or not.
• Apply through the Bahrain Immigration Portal: Applying via the official platform will help you avoid scams and ensure the legitimacy of your application process.
• Error Minimization: Reduce the risk of mistakes that could delay or compromise your application.
• Stay Informed: Gain current insights to make well-informed decisions.

FAQs

Is there a minimum stay requirement for the Golden Residency Visa? Can I apply for the Golden Residency Visa while outside of Bahrain? Does the Golden Residency Visa allow me to sponsor my business partners? Is there an age requirement for the Golden Residency Visa program? How many dependents can be included in a single Bahrain Golden Visa application?