The Bahrain Visa on Arrival offers a convenient entry option for travellers, allowing them to obtain
a visa upon arrival in Bahrain. This service streamlines the process of entering the country, making
it accessible to visitors from various nationalities for short stays of one week to two
months.
List of Countries Eligible for the Bahrain Visa on Arrival
Eligibility to apply for a Bahrain
visa on arrival typically includes travellers from specific countries officially approved by
Bahrain’s immigration policies.
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
Oceania:
Australia
New Zealand
Requirements for a Bahrain visa on arrival
Final entry requirements for a Bahrain visa on arrival are determined by immigration officers at the port of entry and may vary based on the traveller’s nationality.
Travellers may be asked to provide documents, such as a valid GCC residence or
visit visa, a recent bank statement showing sufficient funds, or a valid visa from the UAE, UK, USA, KSA
(excluding Hajj and Umrah visas), any Schengen country, or a USA Green Card.
Common requirements that apply to all travellers, irrespective of their nationality, include the
following.
Valid Passport
Must be valid for the complete duration of stay in Bahrain.
Proof of Exit Plan
A confirmed return or onward ticket showing exit from Bahrain
Accommodation Proof
Hotel booking or Bahrain host’s ID
What Purpose Does Bahrain's Visa-on-Arrival Serve?
Travellers can choose from various visa-on-arrival alternatives in Bahrain, depending on their purpose of visit and the duration of their stay. 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 meetings, conferences, or short-term business activities.
Family Visit Visa: For those visiting close family members residing in Bahrain.
Transit Visa: For travellers passing through Bahrain, allowing a short stay.
Note: Visitors on a Visa on arrival are prohibited from engaging in paid or unpaid work during their stay in Bahrain.
How to apply for a visa upon arrival in Bahrain
Steps for Bahrain Visa on Arrival:
Check Eligibility: Before flying,verify if you are eligible for a Visa on Arrival.
Prepare Documents: Keep all the necessary documents prepared before travelling.
Arrival in Bahrain: Enter Bahrain through Bahrain International Airport or another entry point.
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.
Fill out the Arrival form: Fill in the visa form provided by immigration and submit it along with your supporting documents.
Note: Application procedures may differ based on nationality and visit purpose.
What is the Cost upon Arrival of a Bahraini visa?
The cost of a Bahrain Visa on Arrival ranges from 5 BHD for a short stay to 25 BHD
for multiple entries.
Remember that Bahrain Visa on arrival costs depend on visa type and length, stay
duration, nationality, etc. Before visiting, check the Bahraini immigration website for the latest fee
information.
Processing Time for the Bahrain Visa on Arrival
Bahrain's Visa on Arrival is typically processed within 15-20 minutes at Bahrain International Airport and other entry points.
Processing timeframes may vary depending on traveller traffic, time of day, and other factors, which may cause lineups or delays. Travellers should allow enough time for visa processing.
Bahrain eVisa vs. Bahrain Visa-On-Arrival: Differences
Bahrain Visa on Arrival
Application Method: Directly at the country's entry points (e.g., airport).
Convenience: Convenient for short-notice travel
Visa Format: Stamped in passport upon arrival
Certainty of Entry: Less certain; risk of denial upon arrival if requirements not met
Bahrain eVisa
Application Method: Applied online before travel
Convenience: Allows for remote application, bypassing embassies/consulates
Visa Format: eVisas are electronically linked to a passport. And can be presented in digital format
Certainty of Entry: More certain; approval received before travel, reducing risk at border
Seamless Entry to Bahrain
Bahrain's Visa on Arrival offers quick entry for short stays. However, for a more certain and streamlined process, a Bahrain eVisa is often the better option, ensuring peace of mind before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you overstay your Visa on Arrival in Bahrain, you may face fines, legal consequences, and
restrictions on future travel to Bahrain.
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.
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.
Upon receiving a Visa on Arrival in Bahrain, immigration typically stamps or attaches it to your
passport at the entry point.
No, eligibility alone does not guarantee visa-on-arrival; the final decision rests with the Immigration
officers at the entry point.
Content Disclaimer: While this information reflects the latest update as of January 2026, travellers should still confirm details with official immigration sources, embassies, or their airline to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date guidance for their trip.