Bahrain
At a Glance
Capital | Manama |
Language | Arabic |
Population | 1,702,000 |
GDP Total | $37.9 billion |
GDP Per Capita | $24,133.50 |
When traveling to Bahrain, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.
What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?
As a business visitor to Bahrain, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:
- » Attend business and sales meetings
- » Buy goods for sale outside the country
- » Tour a company facility
- » Attend a trade show or seminar convention
- » Establish a business venture or explore possibilities to set up a business venture
If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Bahrain?
Most foreign nationals, including nationals of the United States and most European countries, will be required to obtain a Business Visa (also called a Visit Visa) to enter Bahrain. Depending on the traveler’s nationality, visas may be obtained from a Bahraini Consulate or Embassy prior to travel, online as an e-visa, or upon arrival. Nationals of select countries, including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states (Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates), may be eligible for visa waiver status, which allows visitors to enter and conduct business activities without a visa. Please verify your eligibility for a visa on arrival, visa waiver status, or an e-visa prior to travel.
What types of activities require work authorization?
The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Bahraini law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Bahrain, even if conducted for a short duration.
- » Performing technical repairs
- » Facilitating or receiving technical training
- » Market integration
- » Participating in an inventory evaluation
If I am traveling to Bahrain for work, what type of work authorization do I need?
The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Bahrain. The most common form of work authorization in Bahrain is the Work Visa and Residence Permit.
Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?
Nationals of eligible GCC member states are exempt from obtaining work authorization and may work indefinitely in Bahrain.
Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.
Copyright © 2023 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.
News and Events
Flexi Permit program suspended
Multi-entry training visa launched
Golden Residency Visa launched
At a Glance
Capital | Manama |
Language | Arabic |
Population | 1,702,000 |
GDP Total | $37.9 billion |
GDP Per Capita | $24,133.50 |
Related News
-
Platinum Residency program to be introduced
BAHRAIN 13 Jul 23
-
Flexi Permit program suspended
BAHRAIN 9 Nov 22
-
Multi-entry training visa launched
BAHRAIN 20 Sep 22
-
Golden Residency Visa launched
BAHRAIN 10 Feb 22
-
COVID-19: Entry restrictions updated
BAHRAIN 31 Aug 21
-
Ten-year multi-entry visa for US nationals announced
BAHRAIN 29 Oct 20
-
COVID-19: Visa on arrival services resume
BAHRAIN 24 Sep 20
-
Labor market testing process details announced
BAHRAIN 1 Sep 20
-
COVID-19: Visit visa validity extended
BAHRAIN 6 May 20
-
COVID-19: Visa and travel restrictions announced
BAHRAIN 6 Apr 20
-
Mode of entry now enforced for Saudi visit...
BAHRAIN, SAUDI ARABIA 10 Oct 18
-
Dependent sponsorship salary minimum increases
BAHRAIN 26 Mar 18
-
Health care costs now included in visa fees
BAHRAIN 11 Feb 15
-
Work Permits, Renewals Now Offer Choice of Duration
BAHRAIN 23 Oct 13