Bahrain Citizenship: All You Need To Know
Nestled in the heart of the Persian Gulf, Bahrain stands as a beacon of prosperity and cultural richness. Looking to acquire Bahrain citizenship and need assistance about the process? Worry Not! We’ve got you covered!
Gaining citizenship in this island nation is not just about obtaining a passport; it’s about weaving yourself into the vibrant fabric of Bahraini society. This guide lays the foundation for your journey from expat to citizen, unfolding the tapestry of legal pathways, traditions, and opportunities that Bahrain offers.
Let’s dive in!
What Is Citizenship In Bahrain?
Citizenship in Bahrain is the legal status that grants a person the rights and duties of being a member of the Bahraini nation.
Once you have lived in Bahrain for a certain period, you can apply for Bahraini citizenship and access the many benefits and responsibilities that come with it.
The Bahrain citizenship laws are governed by the Bahraini nationality law 1963, which states the modes and process of acquiring Bahraini citizenship.
How To Acquire Citizenship In Bahrain?
According to the Bahraini Nationality Law of 1963, there are five primary modes of acquiring Bahraini citizenship.
The ways to acquire Bahrain citizenship are:
- Through Birth: If a person is born to parents who are not Bahrain citizens, then that person is a Bahraini citizen by birth and can acquire citizenship.
- Through Descent: A person can also inherit citizenship from his Bahraini father even if the mother’s nationality is unknown or his place of birth. If the father of a child of a Bahraini mother is unknown, irrespective of the place of birth, such a child may acquire Bahraini citizenship by descent from the mother.
- Through Marriage: If a foreign woman marries a Bahraini man, she can apply for Bahraini citizenship after completing five years of marriage and meeting certain conditions. However, a Bahraini woman who marries a foreign man does not have the right to pass on her citizenship to her husband or children unless the husband renounces his original nationality and the children apply for citizenship after age 18.
- Through Naturalization: Foreigners applying for citizenship in Bahrain should meet certain requirements to acquire citizenship by naturalization. The grant depends on His Majesty the King, who has the final authority.
However, the requirements and criteria are different for both Arabs and non-Arabs. Individuals are advised to consult with the legal authorities regarding the details regarding the intricacies of citizenship.
How Long Should You Stay In Bahrain To Get A Citizenship?
A 20-year time frame is required for you to live in Bahrain before acquiring citizenship.
According to the Bahraini nationality law, the most common way to acquire Bahrain citizenship is through marriage and naturalization. However, the requirements for Bahrain citizenship may vary for both cases.
Here are some general conditions that apply to most individuals:
- If a person is an Arab, they must have legally and consecutively lived in Bahrain for 10 years. If they are non-Arab, 20 years.
- The individual must also meet certain requirements and apply for the Nationality, Passports, and Residence Affairs (NPRA), which will evaluate and forward the application to His Majesty the King, who will make the final decision.
- If acquiring citizenship through marriage, the individual must have completed 5 years before applying for citizenship. Certain requirements should be met, reviewed, and approved by the NPRA.
Other requirements state that:
- They must have a good command of the Arabic language.
- They must own a property registered under their name in the Survey and Land Registration Bureau.
- They must be a person of good conduct and mentally competent.
You should apply for citizenship to avail yourself of the various benefits of Bahrain citizenship.
Individuals are advised to consult an expert or visit the NPRA website regarding the laws and requirements needed to acquire Bahrain citizenship.
How Long Do You Have To Wait To Get Your Bahrain Citizenship?
The process depends on how you acquired your citizenship, but the most you have to wait is a few months.
Depending on the verification and feedback from the authorities in charge of granting citizenship, it can also take longer.
What Are The Benefits Of Acquiring Bahrain Citizenship?
Citizens with Bahrain citizenship enjoy not only citizenship rights but also have to abide by the regulations that come with it.
They have access to Bahrain’s benefits and social services.
These benefits may include:
✅Voting: Bahrain citizens can participate in elections and run in the national elections.
✅Travel: They can travel freely between countries, using their Bahraini passport and visa-free travel to any country.
✅Residency: Bahrain citizens can reside and own property and business without restrictions.
✅Social Services: Citizens have a right to access public services, such as education, health care, and social assistance. They can also participate in and enjoy Bahrain’s cultural and historical heritage.
✅Employment: They have the right to apply for government jobs and scholarships. With these benefits come certain rules and regulations that one must follow.
These regulations are:
- Taxes: The citizens are subject to tax obligations and any fees required.
- Conflicting Laws: Individuals are subjected to following and respecting the laws and constitution of Bahrain.
- Military Service: Some countries require citizens to serve in the military; Bahrain might require it, too.
- Renunciation: In some cases, if you acquire citizenship in a new country, you may be required to renounce your Bahrain citizenship.
Be that as it may, citizenship specifics vary widely based on individual circumstances and the Bahraini authorities. Considering Bahrain citizenship, it’s prudent to consult legal experts and thoroughly understand the laws and regulations.
How To Apply For Bahrain Citizenship?
Individuals can apply for citizenship through the NPRA website or visit the headquarters.
You can also check and track your citizenship status online through the application number given to you via email.
It is advised to visit in person as there are a lot of legalities to follow, like verification, interviewing, and submitting a letter to the king.
That said, the application process for Bahraini citizenship is:
- Apply online through the NPRA’s official website or visit the NPRA’s headquarters or branches in person.
- Select the required department and type of service.
- Attach the required documents. Documents include:
- Passport
- National identity card
- Visa
- Resident permit
- House and property papers
- Health certificate
- Education certificate
- Employment certificate
- Social services papers (if required)
- Submit the application and receive the application number by email.
- Wait for the NPRA’s evaluation and feedback. A letter should also be submitted to the king, who has the final authority.
- f the application is approved, pay the fees (if any) and take the oath of allegiance.
- Receive the citizenship certificate and the CPR card.
It is important to note that the application process may vary depending on the applicant’s situation and the NPRA’s decision.
The applicant may also be asked to provide additional documents, information, or evidence or to attend an interview or an investigation.
After all the legalities, if the king grants you citizenship, you can claim your Bahrain citizenship and avail of the benefits that come with it, with compliance with the laws and regulations.
Conclusion
Embarking on the path to Bahraini citizenship is a voyage of cultural immersion and legal navigation. As you turn the last page of this guide, remember that citizenship is more than a legal status; it’s a bond with the land, the people, and the heritage of Bahrain.
With patience, persistence, and respect for the nation’s values, you can start penning your own chapter in the story of this enchanting Gulf gem.
Citizenship Secured!
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