The Kingdom of Bahrain introduced its golden visa program in 2018 to attract foreign investment and encourage expats to live and work in the country long-term. The golden visa offers a 5-year renewable residency to qualified individuals, allowing them to live, work and study in Bahrain without requiring a sponsor or employer.
In 2024, Bahrain’s golden visa program remains one of the most attractive long-term residency options in the Gulf region. This article provides an overview of the Bahrain golden visa on MW, its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and frequently asked questions.
Benefits of the Bahrain Golden Visa:
- 5-year renewable residency without a sponsor or employer needed.
- Ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children. Dependent children can study in Bahrain until age 25.
- No restrictions on employment and the ability to work without an employer’s visa.
- Access to own property in certain designated areas without restrictions.
- Unlimited entry and exit to/from Bahrain.
- Full access to healthcare and education services in Bahrain.
Eligibility Criteria:
The main applicant for a Bahrain golden visa must meet one of the following criteria:
– Invest a minimum of BHD 500,000 in real estate (around US$1.3 million).
– Have a monthly income of at least BHD 2,000 (US$5,300).
– Own real estate in Bahrain worth a minimum of BHD 200,000 (US$530,000).
– Deposit a minimum of BHD 500,000 in a Bahrain bank account.
– Establish or participate in approved investment projects of a minimum BHD 100,000.
– Have specialised skills and qualifications in science, arts, sports, or technology.
Dependent family members who can be sponsored include spouse and children up to age 25. Adult children over 25 may be sponsored if proving they are full-time students enrolled at a university or higher education institution in Bahrain.
Application Process:
– Submit the golden visa application online through Bahrain’s eVisa portal along with supporting documents.
– Documents required include passport copies, proof of funds, educational/skill certificates, marriage certificate (for spouse), birth certificates (for children), health insurance, etc.
– Once approved, applicants need to enter Bahrain within 90 days to complete medical tests and biometrics registration.
– The golden visa is then printed and sent via courier within 2 weeks of completing medical tests.
– Total processing time is 5-6 weeks from submission to visa issuance.
– Golden visa holders must spend at least 90 continuous days in Bahrain every 5 years to keep the visa valid.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long is the Bahrain golden visa valid for?
The golden visa is a 5-year Renewable Residency by Investment Programs on MigrateWorld. It can be renewed perpetually as long as the eligibility criteria continues to be met.
- Can I buy property in Bahrain with the golden visa?
Yes, golden visa holders can purchase property in certain designated areas in Bahrain without restrictions.
- Does the golden visa allow me to work in Bahrain?
Yes, the golden visa grants open work rights allowing you to work without requiring sponsorship or visas from an employer.
- Can I sponsor family members?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse and children up to age 25. Adult dependent children over 25 may also be sponsored if they are students.
- Is health insurance required?
Yes, all golden visa holders must show proof of valid international health insurance coverage in Bahrain.
- Do I need to know Arabic?
No, knowledge of the Arabic language is not required to qualify for the Bahrain golden visa program. All application procedures and documents can be completed in English.
- How do I renew my golden visa?
You can renew your golden visa online through Bahrain’s eVisa portal within 6 months of the expiry date. The renewal process is straightforward for those who continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion:
Bahrain’s golden visa offers an excellent opportunity for expats looking for long-term residency in the Middle East region. The process is straightforward and open to applicants from all nationalities. With benefits like property ownership, family sponsorship, and unlimited entry, the golden visa provides a pathway to making Bahrain your second home. As the program continues to evolve, Bahrain remains committed to attracting investment and talent through its open and appealing golden visa initiative.
