On 10 April 2025, Bahrain’s Department of Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA) launched a new Golden Visa website and hotline, allowing applicants and their representatives to access information on eligibility, application criteria, processes, and benefits of the Golden Residency program.
Launched in 2022, Bahrain’s Golden Residency program—commonly known as the Golden Visa—was designed to attract and retain investors, highly skilled professionals, talented individuals, and retirees.
By the end of 2024, more than 10,000 Golden Visas had been issued to individuals from over 100 nationalities, reflecting Bahrain’s strategy to strengthen its talent pool and diversify its economy. Given that Bahrain’s total population is just over 1.5 million, this represents a significant commitment to welcoming foreign expertise and investment.
Applicants may qualify under several categories:
The updated Golden Visa portal is expected to streamline the application process, improving transparency and efficiency. Still, applicants should prepare carefully to avoid delays:
The Bahrain Golden Visa has evolved into a strategic residency option that aligns with the Kingdom’s long-term goals of economic diversification and talent acquisition. With its flexibility, 10-year validity, and multiple eligibility routes, the program offers a valuable opportunity for investors, professionals, and retirees looking for stability in the region.
Overview of the Bahrain Golden Visa Program
Launched in 2022, Bahrain’s Golden Residency program—commonly known as the Golden Visa—was designed to attract and retain investors, highly skilled professionals, talented individuals, and retirees.
By the end of 2024, more than 10,000 Golden Visas had been issued to individuals from over 100 nationalities, reflecting Bahrain’s strategy to strengthen its talent pool and diversify its economy. Given that Bahrain’s total population is just over 1.5 million, this represents a significant commitment to welcoming foreign expertise and investment.
Eligibility Criteria for the Bahrain Golden Visa
Applicants may qualify under several categories:
1. Investors
- Own property valued at a minimum of BHD 200,000 (approx. USD 530,000), or
- Invest at least BHD 100,000 (approx. USD 265,000) in a local business.
2. Skilled Professionals and Talented Individuals
- Must demonstrate current employment or a job offer in a specialized, in-demand field in Bahrain.
- Talented applicants—such as students, athletes, or artists—can qualify by proving notable achievements in their field.
3. Retirees
- Applicants aged 55 or older may qualify by demonstrating a monthly income of at least BHD 500 (approx. USD 1,325).
Key Benefits of the Bahrain Golden Visa
For Employees
- Long-term 10-year residency (renewable) with a self-sponsored visa.
- Ability to work for different employers in Bahrain.
- Right to sponsor immediate family members.
- Flexibility for travel in and out of Bahrain.
- Potential future eligibility for permanent residency.
For Employers
- Access to a broad pool of skilled professionals already holding long-term residency.
- Simplified hiring, as only a local work permit is required to formalize employment.
- Reduced administrative burden and costs, with fewer residency renewals.
- A 10-year CPR national ID card, ensuring uninterrupted access to government and residency-related services.
For Investors and Businesspeople
- Ease of establishing and managing businesses in Bahrain.
- Confidence to make long-term investments with the security of extended residency.
- Participation in the Kingdom’s economic diversification and growth initiatives.
Application Process Considerations
The updated Golden Visa portal is expected to streamline the application process, improving transparency and efficiency. Still, applicants should prepare carefully to avoid delays:
- Accurate documentation is critical. Errors or omissions may trigger rejections or requests for clarification.
- Post-submission changes require justification and may attract closer scrutiny from authorities.
- Early preparation and thorough review of all evidence—financial, professional, or otherwise—is strongly advised.
Key Takeaway
The Bahrain Golden Visa has evolved into a strategic residency option that aligns with the Kingdom’s long-term goals of economic diversification and talent acquisition. With its flexibility, 10-year validity, and multiple eligibility routes, the program offers a valuable opportunity for investors, professionals, and retirees looking for stability in the region.
I read that Bahrain wanted to make the process “fully digital,” but I’m not sure if that means actual live updates or just online submission.
It asks 4 hi res scans, PROOF of property OWNERSHIP or INVESTMNT, nd it TIMES OUT Fast!! lol just SAYIN 
A 10-year visa that lets u work for different employers?! That’s super rare in the Gulf!! Bahrain’s totally setting the bar higher for residency flexibility!! 
