According to the most recent official census, more than half the population of Bahrain was represented by non-nationals. The processes set in place to apply for Bahrain work visas and business licenses makes working in Bahrain as simple as possible. Read on to see what will be required of you before you obtain a Bahrain visa.
Types of Bahrain Visas
All individuals looking to travel to Bahrain must have a visa with the exception of residents from Gulf Council Cooperation countries. Visas can be acquired for a variety of reasons such as tourism, family, or business. Below is a breakdown of each type of Bahrain visa you may need:
Domestic Visa
Provided to individuals seeking employment in the following occupations:
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- Maids, Driver, Cook, Gardner, House Security, and Babysitter
Visit Visa
Issued to individuals wanting to visit family and friends or spend holidays in the Kingdom
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- Provided for 7, 14, 30 or 90 days
Employment Visa
Provided to those looking to work for a business in Bahrain
- A work agreement or sponsorship must be provided
- Individuals will either obtain sponsorship through their employer or file for a self-sponsored residency permit online.
Self-sponsored Residency Visa
Issued to individuals whose purpose of visiting is setting up a business or investing in Bahrain
In order to work in Bahrain, you will need to apply for and acquire a Bahrain work visa.
Applying for a Bahrain Work Visa
The process of obtaining a Bahrain work visa is simple and can be accomplished through either an online application or in person upon arrival for persons from a number of countries. The steps for applying are essentially the same for either process. The best way to ensure you meet the correct visa requirements for Bahrain is to find a consultant who specializes in Bahrain visa services. There are many resources available in Bahrain to help your move go smoothly, such as Nationality, Passport, and Residence Affairs (NPRA).
See below for a step-by-step guide to applying for a Bahrain work visa:
For more information on working in Bahrain, The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) is more than happy to help answer any questions.
Applying for a Bahrain Business License
When setting up a company in Bahrain, you will need more than just a Bahrain visa to operate. You will also need to apply for the necessary business licenses. Our consultants at the EDB can help guide you through the entire process of opening your business. A brief explanation of the process is given below.
