Bahrain
Entry requirements
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Bahrain set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bahrain Embassy in the UK.
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Bahrain.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Bahrain, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You must have a visa to visit Bahrain.
Applying for a visa
You can get a visa:
- in advance online
- in advance from the Bahrain Embassy in the UK
- on arrival
Visas are automatically issued for a 2-week period, but visit visas for stays of up to 6 months are also available. You may be asked to provide evidence of onward or return travel when you apply.
You cannot start employment in Bahrain if you enter on a visit visa.
If you overstay your visa, there could be penalties, legal issues and your work visa could be cancelled.
You can apply to renew your visa at the Nationality, Passports and Residential Affairs department at the Ministry of Interior.
Applying for residency
You can apply for residency through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA).
You can be fined if you overstay your legal residency.
Travel bans
You may be prevented from leaving Bahrain if you:
- are subject to a travel ban
- are involved in legal proceedings
- have unpaid debt
- are a child subject to a custody dispute
If you’re involved in a dispute, including civil and criminal disputes or immigration violation, you may be stopped from leaving the country. The travel ban will not be lifted until the issue is resolved. You may not know you’re subject to a travel ban until you try to leave or enter Bahrain. You can check with the Bahrain Immigration Department to see whether you’re subject to a travel ban.
Vaccine requirements
To enter Bahrain, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Bahrain guide.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Bahrain. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.