Bahrain eVisa for US citizens
The Bahrain eVisa for US citizens is an electronic travel authorization that allows travelers to enter Bahrain for activities related to tourism, business, investments, events, etc, without the need of a physical visa stamp. The Bahrain eVisa can be applied only by eVisa eligible countries, since the US is on the list, so its citizens are allowed to apply.
US citizens who are eagerly wishing to visit Bahrain and experience its tradition and development, should acquire the Bahrain eVisa. This guide explains about the eligibility criteria, procedures to follow, type of Bahrain eVisa, benefits, extension policies, and why US citizens should travel to Bahrain.
Visiting or moving to Bahrain: Why is it an important destination?
Bahrain is the smallest island nation in the Arabian Gulf, offering a rich cultural heritage, diverse tourism experiences and different business opportunities, making it an attractive destination for the US citizens to visit.
Business Hub
Bahrain is one of the leading business hubs in the Middle East, offering business opportunities with low taxes, and 100% foreign ownership in many sectors. Businesses in the sectors like finance, technology, and logistics are flourishing.
Technology
It is best known for its success in innovative sectors like cybersecurity, cloud computing and fintech. Companies like Amazon Web Services have set up its regional hub in Bahrain, improving the reputation of the nation, as a tech-friendly destination.
Oil and Gas
Despite having its strong hold in finance and technology, Bahrain is an important hub of oil and gas, especially after the discovery of the Khaleej Al Bahrain oil field and a major player in petrochemicals and refining industry.
Financial Services
Strong banking sectors, that includes both conventional and Islamic banking and well well-regulated financial, making it an important center to invest.
Manufacturing industry
Bahrain is one of the largest producers of aluminum, contributing for the growth of the economy. Other important manufacturing industries include pharmaceuticals and food processing.
Logistics and Trade
It is a key logistic and trade center, well connected to Asia, Europe, and Africa. Bahrain Logistics Zone and Khalifa Bin Salman Port are the major logistic hubs of the nation.
These business sectors make Bahrain one of the thriving destinations to start a business or make investments.
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Bahrain is a significant hub for business and related- activities. The business e-visa allows foreign nationals to visit Bahrain to participate in business or related activities.
Learn more travelling to Bahrain for business in our Guide to Bahrain Business e-Visa.
Tourism Appeal
For those who want to visit Bahrain for tourism purposes, will be able to have a historical, adventurous, cultural and a luxury experience. For travelers planning to explore the Middle-East, head to Bahrain for unique experiences.
Historical & Cultural Sites
- Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain): An ancient site belonging to the Dilmun civilization, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Dilmun Burial Mounds: These are ancient tombs, which are more than 4,000 years old.
- Bahrain National Museum: Know about the history, and culture of the nation, and check out some of the archaeological findings as well.
- Al Fateh Grand Mosque: The largest mosque of Bahrain, here even non-muslims can also visit.
Adventure & Outdoor Activities
- Enjoy Pearl Diving & Island Hopping
- Explore Al Areen Wildlife Park, a nature reserve. You can find here Arabian oryx, gazelles, and different birds.
- Enjoy desert safari, camel rides and traditional Bedouin experiences.
Modern Attractions & Events
- Bahrain International Circuit: Sports lovers can attend F1 races which are conducted every year.
- The Avenues Bahrain & City Centre Bahrain: Shopping lovers can enjoy shopping in these luxury malls, with high-end brands.
- An ancient marketplace (referred to as souk), here you can buy pearls, gold, spices, and souvenirs.
Food & Nightlife
- For Luxurious Dining & Nightlife, there are many fine diners, rooftop bars, and beach clubs.
- At the local restaurants, try the Traditional Bahraini Cuisine. Some of the famous ones like the Machboos (spiced rice with meat) and fresh seafood.
With its warm atmosphere and different places to visit and activities to indulge in, Bahrain is a must-visit destination for US travelers.
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The beaches and islands are great for kayaking, boat tours, jet skiing and scuba diving. The desert area in Bahrain offers the best spots for camel riding and dune bashing.
Learn more travelling to Bahrain for tourism in our Guide to Bahrain Tourist Visa.
Why not apply for the Bahrain eVisa, but before that know what are the steps to follow?
What is a Bahrain eVisa? What are its benefits?
Bahrain eVisa is an online visa (or electronic travel authorization) which can be applied if you want to enter the nation for short-term visits. This eVisa is eligible only for international travelers whose country is in the list of visa eligible countries.
Since the US is in the list of the visa eligible countries, its citizens can apply for the Bahrain eVisa. The entire process takes place online without the requirement of the applicant to physically visit the Bahrain embassy in their country of residence.
If the visa is approved after being verified, it will be mailed to the registered email address of the applicant. The traveler on arrival in Bahrain international airport, simply needs to show this online visa. The Bahrain eVisa allows a smooth entry into the country, and enjoy a stay for the duration offered.
Who can apply for a Bahrain eVisa?
As mentioned above the Bahrain eVisa can be applied only by citizens belonging to the Bahrain eVisa eligible countries. At present 209 countries around the world have the privilege to apply for this online visa and enjoy its benefits.
Bahrain eVisa for US citizens, can be applied only for reasons related to tourism, business, family visits, investment or attending F1 races.
What are the different categories of Bahrain eVisa? Which one should you choose?
For the convenience of the travelers, the Bahrain eVisa for US citizens is categorised into the following eVisa types, you will have to apply according to your requirement only as proof will be required in support of the eVisa applied.
General Visit Bahrain eVisa
This eVisa can be applied by US passport holders, if they need to visit Bahrain for meeting their friends and relatives, tourism or business purposes. To apply for this eVisa the applicant will need a passport and sufficient funds to support his stay in the country.
Family Visit Bahrain eVisa
This Bahrain eVisa will allow US passport holders to meet their family and friends, and is entirely for non-tourism-activities.
This eVisa is also further categorized as single entry eVisa (14 days stay allowed) and multiple entry eVisa ( 30 days which is extendable).
Business Meeting Bahrain eVisa
With the Business Meeting Bahrain eVisa for US citizens, it can only be used for attending business meetings, events, trade fairs, exhibitions, and conferences.This Business eVisa is also further divided as single entry eVisa (14 days stay allowed) and multiple entry eVisa ( 30 days which is extendable).
Bahrain Tourist eVisa
The tourist eVisa can be applied by the US passport holders only for exploring the country, visiting the tourist attraction spots and enjoying leisure activities.
This eVisa is further categorized as single entry eVisa (14 days stay allowed) and multiple entry eVisa ( 30 days which is extendable).
Other Bahrain e-visa:
- Medical Treatment: For getting medical treatment and consultations.
- Short-term Employment: Visiting for temporary work assignments, but after getting all the approved documents.
- Educational Visits: Allows for short visits for reasons related to attending educational workshops and seminars.
- Religious Pilgrimages: For attending religious activities or visiting pilgrimage sites.
- Cultural Exchange: As a participant in arts, music or heritage events.
- Transit: For transiting through the airport.
The Other category serves a wide range of purposes, but you have to consult with the immigration authorities first, as specific documents will be required in support of the eVisa applied.
Investment eVisa
This eVisa can be applied by US passport holders who plan to invest in Bahrain and are searching for investment opportunities. The applicant will have to show proof of his business or investment plans and that he has sufficient funds in his bank account.
F1 Grand Prix eVisa
To attend the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix event, which is held once every year. In order to apply for this eVisa you will have to show the F1 tickets first as evidence that you're visiting the country only to attend the race. The validity of the F1 Bahrain Grand Prix eVisa depends on the duration of the event.
Self-Sponsor (Residence Permit) eVisa
US passport holders can apply for this eVisa, if they are planning to stay in the country for a long-term purpose and doesnt need anyone to sponsor their stay. This eVisa is usually ideal for retirees, business owners, and investors.
What are the necessary requirements for Americans to get Bahrain eVisa?
Bahrain eVisa for US citizens, in order to be eligible to apply the applicant must fulfill the following mandatory requirements, only then their application will be accepted.
- Valid US Passport: The validity must be at least 6 months, must be counted from the date you will arrive in Bahrain to the date of return.
- Proof of Onward Travel: Need to have a return flight ticket from Bahrain.
- Accommodation Details: Your hotel booking details or invitation letter from the host in Bahrain.
- Evidence of financial means: Demonstrate that you are financially strong to cover your expenses in Bahrain.
- Other documents: Related to the Bahrain eVisa type you will be applying.
Want to Apply for the Bahrain E-Visa? Check out this Seamless Process
In order to apply for the Bahrain eVisa, US citizens will have to follow the simple steps, once they have collected the important documents needed to submit along with the form.
Step 1: Online Application
Visit the Bahrain e-visa portal and complete the application form which consists of basic questions like your full name, nationality, passport number, phone number and email address..
Step 2: Document Uploads
Submit the scanned documents, the biography page of the passport, your photo and the other documents (related to the Bahrain eVisa you have applied for).
Step 3: Review and Submit
Before finally clicking on the payment and submit button, check if the details are filled correctly, because once you have submitted the form you cannot change the details.
Step 4: Payment of the application fees
The applicant should now pay the Bahrain visa fees online securely using either a credit or debit card. The charge will depend on your nationality, visa type, and the processing speed chosen.
Step 5: Visa Approval
If your Bahrain eVisa application is accepted, after reviewing by the immigration department, your approved eVisa will be sent directly to your email.
Are you planning to extend your stay in Bahrain: Is it allowed?
US citizens will be happy to know that extension of Bahrain eVisa is allowed, but you will have to request to immigration department [Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA) Office in Bahrain] before its expiry date. The decision of extension of the Bahrain eVisa will entirely depend on the immigration authorities of Bahrain.
In case extension is allowed, for example in Tourist eVisa:
- For Single-entry eVisa an additional two weeks is allowed with the Tourist eVisa.
- For Multiple-entry eVisa, during each visit, an additional two weeks is allowed.
What is the Bahrain eVisa Application Cost for US Citizens?
The charge for applying for the Bahrain eVisa will depend on your nationality, visa type, and the processing speed chosen.
- Visa Type: Varies on the eVisa category chosen, for example tourist, business or investment eVisa.
- Processing Speed: Whether you have opted for Standard, Rush or Super Rush..
What is the Processing Time taken to verify the Bahrain eVisa application form?
It takes 5 - 7 Working Days.
A key component that affects the Bahrain e-visa fee is its types, the application fee differs for each Bahrain e-visa category. Travellers can choose multiple or single-entry. Please note that the multiple-entry Bahrain e-visa will be expensive because it comes with a longer stay duration and validity period. Traveller’s choice of e-visa processing time will reduce the application processing time, but an additional charge will be added to the e-visa fee. Check the e-visa fee and associated additional costs before the Bahrain e-visa process.
Check your eligibility for Bahrain e-Visa and apply e-Visa 7 (seven) days before your scheduled trip.