Get everything you need to know about visiting Bahrain—from eligibility and required papers to special rules you won’t find on every site. By the end, you’ll feel ready to apply with confidence and avoid surprises at immigration.
What Is the Bahrain Tourist Visa?
You can visit Bahrain for leisure or short business trips using a Tourist Visa, available as a single-entry or multiple-entry eVisa.
eVisa versus Consular Visa
- eVisa: Fully online, instant fee payment, electronic approval.
- Consular Visa: Applied through a Bahraini embassy, useful if you encounter issues with the eVisa portal.
Who Can Apply and What You’ll Need
Most nationalities qualify for an eVisa before arrival. To complete your application, prepare:
– A passport valid for at least six months, with one blank page.
– A recent passport-style photo (35×45 mm).
– Confirmed flight tickets in and out of Bahrain.
– Hotel reservation details.
– A filled-out online form from the official portal.
– Proof of funds: a 3-month bank statement (required for multiple-entry eVisas).
– Copy of your national ID or driver’s license (if available).
Source: Visa requirements and documents on Bahrain.com
How to Apply: A Simple Roadmap
- Visit the official Bahrain eVisa portal.
- Select “Tourist Visa,” choose single or multiple entry.
- Upload scanned documents and your photo.
- Pay the visa fee with a credit/debit card.
- Track your application status online.
- Receive your eVisa by email—print it for immigration.
Fees and Processing Time
- Single-entry tourist eVisa: 5 BHD
- Multiple-entry tourist eVisa (valid 1 year): 12 BHD
- Processing time: Typically 1–3 business days
Source: Wikipedia’s Visa policy of Bahrain for eVisa fees and processing times.
Special Rules Beyond the Basics
HIV/AIDS Entry Restrictions
Foreigners who test positive for HIV can face immediate deportation, and health centers must report HIV-positive non-citizens to authorities. Non-citizens need a permit from the Ministry of Health to fill HIV/AIDS prescriptions.
Source: Human Rights Watch’s report on HIV testing for entry into Bahrain
Dual Nationality Policy
Bahrain generally does not recognize dual citizenship. If you’re eligible for Bahraini nationality, you must renounce other passports to obtain a Bahraini one.
Source: CIA World Factbook’s overview of citizenship in Bahrain
Re-entry Permit Requirement
If you hold a residence permit and plan to leave—and return to—Bahrain, you must secure a re-entry permit valid for at least six months before exiting the country.
Source: KPMG Bahrain’s guide to residence visas and re-entry permits
Bank Statement Minimums for Multiple-Entry eVisa
For the multiple-entry eVisa, show a three-month bank statement demonstrating regular income of at least 300 BHD per month or an equivalent balance.
Source: Visa requirements and documents on Bahrain.com
The Legal Foundation
Bahrain’s visa rules rest on Ministerial Resolution No. (142) of 2019, Item 65 of Schedule (B).
Source: Bahrain News Agency’s Ministry of Interior press release on new visa instructions
Smooth Sailing Ahead
You’ve seen every step: from who qualifies for the Bahrain Tourist Visa to the documents, fees and even special regulations you won’t find in every guide. Keep this article handy when you apply, and you’ll breeze through the process—ready to explore Bahrain’s islands, markets and rich history. Safe travels!
Last modified: August 21, 2025