Bahrain has made its long-term residency programme much easier to access by lowering the investment requirement for the Golden Residency Visa. The government reduced the cost by 35%, making it more affordable for foreigners who wish to live, invest, or work in the Kingdom. The goal is to bring in global investors, skilled workers, and talented individuals who can support Bahrain’s economy.
Key Changes in the Golden Visa Requirements
Main Points
- Investment requirement reduced from 200,000 BHD to 130,000 BHD.
- Individuals owning property worth 130,000 BHD or more can now apply.
- Visa is open to multiple categories: investors, professionals, retirees, and talented individuals.
- Application process is online through the NPRA portal.
- Visa is lifetime valid and allows full work freedom in Bahrain.
- Fees include 5 BHD application fee and 300 BHD visa issuance fee.
These new adjustments aim to make Bahrain more attractive to long-term residents from around the world.
Eligibility
The Bahrain Golden Visa is available to several groups of people. Real estate investors who buy property worth at least 130,000 BHD can apply instantly. Professionals who earn a monthly salary of 2,000 BHD or more are also eligible. Retirees who worked in Bahrain for 15 years, or those living abroad with a 4,000 BHD monthly pension, can apply too. Bahrain is also welcoming individuals who have special talents or skills that can benefit the country socially, culturally, or economically.
Applicants need to show a valid passport, bank statements for the last six months, official proof of residence, and health insurance. All documents must be submitted online through the NPRA website, making the application process simple and fast.
Benefits of the Golden Residency Visa
The Golden Residency Visa is popular because it offers many advantages that are not commonly found in other countries’ residency programmes. One major benefit is its lifetime validity, meaning the visa does not need to be renewed every few years. Visa holders are free to work anywhere in Bahrain, own full businesses, and travel in and out of the country whenever they want. The visa also allows holders to sponsor family members, providing easy settlement for the whole household.
These benefits make Bahrain an attractive place for long-term living, investment, and retirement.
Detailed Table of Requirements and Features
| Category | Requirement | Notes / Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Investment Amount | 130,000 BHD (reduced from 200,000 BHD) | Property ownership qualifies |
| Professionals | 2,000 BHD monthly salary | Open to skilled workers |
| Retirees (in Bahrain) | Worked 15 years | Eligible for long-term stay |
| Non-resident retirees | 4,000 BHD monthly pension | Can apply from abroad |
| Application Fee | 5 BHD | Non-refundable |
| Visa Issuance Fee | 300 BHD | Non-refundable |
| Visa Validity | Lifetime | No renewal needed |
| Family Sponsorship | Allowed | Can bring dependents |
| Work Freedom | Allowed anywhere | No separate work permit needed |
Why Bahrain Made These Changes
The government explained that lowering the cost will help attract more real estate investment, bring international experts to the country, and make Bahrain a strong hub for long-term residency in the Gulf. Officials believe that easier visa rules will encourage people from around the world to contribute to Bahrain’s economy and long-term development.
