Permanent Residence in Bahrain: All You Need to Know

Bahrain, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and economic prosperity in the Gulf region, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

For expatriates seeking a long-term stay, obtaining permanent residence in Bahrain is a pathway to not just living but thriving in this vibrant country.

This guide aims to unpack all you need to know about securing permanent residence in Bahrain, from eligibility criteria to the application process, offering clarity amidst the complexity of immigration laws.

Let’s dive in!

What Exactly Is A Bahrain Resident Permit?

Foreign nationals who want to stay in Bahrain for more than three or six months (depending on their specific permit type) have the option of obtaining a Bahrain Residence Permit.

This permit provides a formal certification of their legal residency status and allows them to actively participate in a variety of activities, such as job, study, and living, across Bahrain throughout the given validity time. 

Obtaining a Bahrain Residence Permit allows persons to stay in the country in a safe and authorized manner while pursuing their intended aspirations.

How Can I Get Permanent Residency In Bahrain?

The Golden Permanent Residency Visa program, which was recently created in Bahrain, allows applicants to seek permanent residency. The government’s effort intends to attract talented professionals and foreign investors to contribute to the growth of Bahrain’s economy.

Individuals must demonstrate their qualifications as an investor or entrepreneurs, or have extraordinary talents that can favorably impact Bahrain’s economy and society, to be eligible for this program. 

Individuals who match these conditions may be eligible for a Golden Permanent Residency Visa, which gives long-term residency and accompanying privileges in Bahrain.

Individuals can apply for permanent residency in Bahrain through a streamlined international visa program under the Bahrain Golden Residency Visa Programme. 

This program offers foreign nationals with a legal document that allows them to stay in the country for up to ten years. The prerequisites are as follows:

  • Applicants must own at least BHD 200,000 ($530,000) in property.
  • Retirees with a monthly income of at least BHD 4,000 or extraordinarily talented persons who meet certain standards.
  • Applicants must spend at least 90 days per year in Bahrain.
  • Existing residents will be eligible for the Golden Residency Visa as well. They must have lived in Bahrain for at least 5 years and have earned a monthly average wage of at least BHD 2,000.

Bahrain Residence Permit Types

To legally dwell in Bahrain, you must first get a residence permit that is appropriate for the purpose and duration of your stay. Bahrain provides numerous sorts of permissions to accommodate diverse conditions.

Work Residence Permit

If you want to work in Bahrain under the sponsorship of a local employer, you must apply for a work visa. A valid work contract and compliance with the LMRA (Labour Market Regulatory Authority) standards are required for this authorization.

You can renew this permission as many times as you want as long as you keep working in Bahrain.

Self-Sponsorship Residence Permit

A self-sponsorship visa allows you to live in Bahrain without the necessity for the sponsorship of an employer or a family member. If you meet any of the following requirements, you are eligible for this visa:

  • As an investor, you have made a minimum investment of BHD 100,000 in Bahrain in either business or real estate. You are an investor who has invested at least BHD 100,000 in a Bahraini business or real estate.
  • As a self-employed professional, you have a professional license that allows you to practice your chosen profession in Bahrain. 
  • As a retiree, you have sufficient funds to support yourself financially while living in Bahrain.

Family Residence Permit

A family visa allows you to bring your close relatives to Bahrain. If you match any of the following criteria, you can apply for a family visa:

  • You are a Bahraini national looking to sponsor your overseas spouse or children
  • You are a foreign resident with a valid work permit and a monthly wage of at least BHD 1,000.
  • You are a foreign resident with a valid self-sponsorship or investment permission and enough cash to support your dependents

Student Residence Permit

A student permit allows you to study in a college or university in Bahrain. If you are enrolled in an educational institution in Bahrain or elsewhere, you can apply for this permit. 

The permit’s validity ranges from one to five years, depending on your enrollment status and the length of your academic program. You can study and improve your education in Bahrain if you have a student permit.

What Are The Requirements For The Bahrain Residency Permit?

Bahraini residence permit applications normally require the following general requirements, while additional criteria may vary based on the type of residency and its intended purpose. In some circumstances, documentation of retirement or property ownership may be required.

  • A passport valid for more than six months
  • Valid ID
  • Health insurance certificate
  • Six months’ bank statement
  • Certificate of good conduct
  • Medical examination report

For detailed information on the required documents, go to the official NPRA website and browse the specific Visas & Residence Permit Directorate Services area.

Bahrain Residence Permit Check

It is critical to verify the status of your Bahrain resident permit on a frequent basis to maintain compliance with immigration laws and regulations. We’ve written a lot on how to check the validity of your Bahrain residency visas and permits.

Bahrain Residence Permits Online Application

Please follow the step-by-step steps below to apply for a Bahrain resident permit conveniently online:

  • Visit the NPRA’s official service request website 
  • Click the “Request Service” button.
  • Under the division options, pick the Directorate of Visa & Residence as the department for your request
  • Select “Residence” as the sort of service you wish to obtain
  • Input your personal information carefully in the relevant fields.
  • If you supply all of the needed application information,
  • You will be invited to upload the relevant attachments in order for your request to be processed.

The cost of a Bahrain residence permit varies depending on the kind and duration of the permit. However, the following are some common fees linked with Bahrain’s resident permits:

  • Non-refundable application fee: BHD 4B
  • Residence fees: BHD 50-59

Bahrain Residence Permits Renewal Fees

The fees for acquiring a Bahrain residence permit differ depending on the kind and duration of the permission. Renewal fees normally vary from BHD 15 to BHD 200, according to the LMRA (Labour Market Regulatory Authority).

How Can You Gain Residency In Bahrain Through A Work Permit?

Foreign nationals looking to relocate to Bahrain will discover plenty of job options. If you find yourself in this circumstance, you may be able to seek a residence permit in Bahrain based on your profession in 2023. 

This is one of the most straightforward methods of relocating here, as the procedure must be initiated by the employer, who must file the necessary documents on behalf of the foreign employee:

  • The personal details of the employee (copy of the passport)
  • Proof that the employee is qualified for the job (diplomas, education background information)
  • The employment contracts
  • Healthcare certificates

The documents must be filed with the Labor Market Regulatory Authority in Bahrain.

Conclusion

Securing permanent residence in Bahrain marks the beginning of a new chapter, opening doors to numerous opportunities and a life steeped in the rich tapestry of Bahraini culture and tradition.

With the right preparation and understanding of the process outlined in this guide, applicants can navigate the path to permanent residency with confidence.

Bahrain welcomes you to its shores with open arms, offering a blend of security, opportunity, and a warm community. Embrace the journey to calling Bahrain your permanent home.

Farewell journey!

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