Bahrain, with its abundant green landscapes, captivating wildlife reserves, and serene mosques, is a haven for tourists. Now, tourists from India and many other countries can embark on their Bahrain journey with the convenience of an online Bahrain tourist visa.

What is a Bahrain Tourist Visa?

A tourist visa is a common type of visa issued to travelers intending to visit a country for tourism purposes. A Bahrain tourist visa permits a stay of up to 30 days within the visa’s validity. What sets it apart is the option for multiple entries to the country on a single visa. Furthermore, this tourist visa can be extended by applying online.

How to Apply for a Bahrain Visa for Indians?

The Bahrain tourist visa is an e-visa primarily applied for online. To initiate the visa application process, follow these steps:

1. Complete the Bahrain online visa application form on the official website.
2. Make the visa fee payment online.
3. Attach passport-sized photos to the application form.
4. Submit the form along with scanned copies of the required documents.

After completing the above process, the embassy will review your documents, and once approved, your electronic visa will be sent to your registered email ID.

Ensure that the information provided in the application form is accurate to avoid potential visa rejection due to incorrect data, which can adversely affect future visa applications.

Who Should Apply or Eligibility for a Bahrain Tourist Visa?

Certain criteria must be met to obtain a Bahrain tourist visa. Here are the eligibility requirements:

• Proof of the purpose of your visit.
• If visiting friends or acquaintances, an invitation letter from a Bahrain resident is required.
• Your visit must be for tourism or to visit acquaintances, and not for employment purposes.
• Meeting health requirements: A medical test is needed before traveling to Bahrain, with relevant documentary proof.
• Age limits: Applicable to work permits.
• Meeting character requirements: Demonstrating good character and genuine intentions to work in Bahrain, with relevant documentary proof like a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
• Having sufficient funds: Possessing or having access to enough funds to cover your stay and other expenses in Bahrain, with bank statements or equivalent documents as proof.

Documents Required for a Bahrain Tourist Visa

The necessary documents for a Bahrain tourist visa include:

• Original passport with at least 6 months of validity.
• 2 passport-size photographs with white backgrounds.
• Confirmed airline tickets.
• Legitimate ID proof.
• Employment certificates (if requested).
• Bank statements for the last 6 months.
• Confirmed hotel bookings.
• PAN Card Copy.

Additional documents may be required if requested by the Bahrain Immigration department, potentially extending the processing time.

Photo Specifications for a Bahrain Tourist Visa

Ensure that your photo for the Bahrain tourist visa adheres to these specifications:

• White background.
• Passport-size photograph.
• Facing straight into the camera.
• No headwear, except for religious reasons.
• Glasses of any kind are not permitted.
• Both ears must be visible.
• Teeth should not be shown in the photograph.
• Recent photograph, not older than three months.

Processing Time for a Bahrain Tourist Visa

The processing time for a Bahrain tourist visa is typically 72 hours. Once you submit the visa application form along with the required documents, the e-visa for tourism will be emailed to your registered email ID. This e-visa serves as a legitimate permit for touring Bahrain.

Bahrain Tourist Visa Cost

The cost of a Bahrain tourist visa varies based on factors such as visa validity, stay duration, number of entries, visa extension, delivery charges, service fees, and more. The fee is generally paid online after completing the online visa application form.

After Submission

After submitting the visa application form and paying the fees, the processing of the e-visa commences. Keep these points in mind:

• Notify the embassy or agency if additional requirements arise or if there are any mistakes in your application.
• Keep the embassy/agency updated on any application-related changes, such as a change in marital status or the birth of a child.
• You can track the status of your application and processing online.
• If your plans change, you can withdraw your application.
• Visa fees are typically non-refundable.

How to Check Bahrain Tourist Visa Status?

The Bahrain tourist visa is an e-visa, making it easy to track online. To check your visa status online, visit the official website with your visa application number or verification code, and input the digits for a status update. You can also inquire about your visa status offline by calling the embassy with your visa application number, although this is generally unnecessary due to the automated process.

Upon Receiving Your Bahrain Tourist Visa

Once the process is complete, and you have your visa, exercise caution regarding your activities in Bahrain, as inappropriate behavior can lead to visa cancellation. Take note of these essential points:

Before You Travel

• Note the visa expiry date and the permitted number of entries; do not overstay your visa.
• Travel to Bahrain within your visa’s validity.
• Carry copies of your passport and travel documents.
• Obtain health and travel insurance from a certified provider.

At the Border

• Complete document checks and passport verification.
• Secure the entry stamp on your passport.
• Seek assistance from airport authorities if needed.
• Review your visa copy for additional guidelines and rules.

While in Bahrain

• Avoid engaging in employment, though volunteering is allowed.
• Stay clear of restricted tourist areas.
• Adhere to the specified duration of stay and apply for a visa extension if necessary.