Can I Visit Bahrain as a Tourist?

Yes — the Kingdom of Bahrain warmly welcomes international visitors to its pearl-diving heritage, Formula 1 circuit, world-class souqs, ancient forts, and vibrant dining scene. Bahrain is one of the most open and accessible countries in the Gulf for international travellers — eVisas are available to nationals of more than 200 countries, making it among the easiest Gulf destinations to visit.

GCC citizens (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE) are the only nationals who do not require any visa — they may enter Bahrain freely using their national ID card or passport for an indefinite stay. All other nationalities require an entry visa, but the vast majority can obtain one online via the official eVisa portal or on arrival at Bahrain International Airport.

Tip: Always apply for your Bahrain eVisa through the only official website: evisa.gov.bh. No other website or company operates on behalf of the Government of Bahrain — beware of third-party sites charging inflated fees.

What Is the Bahrain eVisa & How Do I Apply?

The Bahrain eVisa is an electronic visa obtained entirely online — there is no need to have a visa stamped in your passport before arriving in Bahrain. Once approved, your eVisa is electronically linked to your passport and accessible to the immigration officer on arrival. You may optionally print a copy of your approval to carry with you.

Applications are submitted through evisa.gov.bh. You will need to upload a digital copy of your passport, confirm your accommodation and return ticket, and pay the fee by credit or debit card. Processing takes approximately 3–5 working days and you will be notified by email when a decision is made.

• You must be outside Bahrain when applying — visas cannot be applied for by travellers already in the Kingdom
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date
• You must have a valid confirmed onward or return travel ticket
• You must use your eVisa within 30 days of approval — after this it expires
• Only one visa can be issued per passport at a time
• If your application is not approved, the visa fee is refunded but the processing fee is not

Tip: Bahrain offers eVisas in single-entry and multiple-entry formats. If you plan to travel in and out of Bahrain (for example, combining it with a visit to Saudi Arabia via the King Fahd Causeway), make sure you apply for a multiple-entry visa.

Bahrain Visa Fees & How Long Can I Stay?

Bahrain offers several visa options depending on the length and nature of your stay. All fees below are for applications made directly through the official evisa.gov.bh portal.

Visa extensions are available for an additional 2 weeks by visiting the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) department in Bahrain before your current visa expires. Some nationalities may be eligible for longer stays — check your specific conditions on the official portal.

Tip: The Golden Residency Visa is also available for eligible applicants — offering permanent residence in Bahrain for qualifying individuals and their families, including employment rights and multiple-entry privileges. Details at evisa.gov.bh.

Which Nationalities Can Get a Bahrain eVisa or Visa on Arrival?

eVisas are available to nationals of more than 200 countries. Nationals of the following countries and regions are among those eligible for a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport. Always verify your exact eligibility at evisa.gov.bh as conditions vary by nationality.

Note: GCC citizens (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE) are fully visa-exempt. Nationals of Iran, North Korea, and Kosovo must apply for a physical visa in advance through a Bahraini embassy. Always verify your exact eligibility at the official Bahrain eVisa eligibility list.

Laws, Culture & What Visitors Should Know

Bahrain is one of the most liberal and open countries in the Gulf and is considered a very safe destination with a low crime rate. It is widely regarded as the most relaxed of the GCC states for international visitors, with a vibrant nightlife, licensed restaurants and bars, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere in Manama. That said, visitors should be aware of local laws and cultural norms:

Tip: Bahrain is home to the world-famous Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix held at Sakhir, the ancient Bahrain Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the stunning Al-Fateh Grand Mosque, and the Bahrain National Museum — all unmissable highlights for any visitor to the Kingdom.

Apply for a Bahrain Visa — Useful Links & Apply Now

All Bahrain visa applications are submitted through the Kingdom's official eVisa portal. The process is straightforward, fully online, and typically completed in 3–5 working days. Payment is accepted by major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) and digital wallets.

Tip: Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are connected by the King Fahd Causeway — a 25km road bridge across the Gulf. If you hold a multiple-entry Bahrain visa, a day trip to Saudi Arabia is easily possible and vice versa. A unified GCC tourist visa — covering all six Gulf states on a single visa — is expected to launch in late 2026, which will make multi-country Gulf travel significantly easier.