Manama Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, is a major business and tourist hub in the Middle East with a relatively streamlined entry process for most visitors. Entry requirements are primarily determined by nationality, with many travelers eligible for visa-free entry or convenient electronic visas (eVisa). Upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport (BAH), travelers go through immigration, passport control, and customs. It's important to ensure your passport has sufficient validity (typically six months beyond your intended stay) and that you have all necessary documentation, including proof of onward travel and accommodation if requested. The immigration process is generally efficient, but during peak travel times, there can be queues. Travelers should be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of their visit and show supporting documents. While Bahrain is welcoming to tourists, it's important to respect local laws and customs, which are based on Islamic principles. Always verify the latest entry requirements directly with official Bahraini government sources or your nearest Bahraini embassy/consulate before departure, as policies can change.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Bahrain offers visa-free entry, Visa on Arrival (VoA), and an Electronic Visa (eVisa) system for many nationalities. The specific requirement depends on your passport and the purpose/duration of your visit.

Visa-Free Entry

Unlimited stay

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries do not require a visa.

Includes

Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Kuwait Oman Qatar

GCC nationals must present a valid National ID Card (Civil ID) for entry.

Visa on Arrival / Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

Typically 14 days or 30 days, extendable for a fee.

Many nationalities are eligible for a Visa on Arrival or can obtain an eVisa online prior to travel. The eVisa is strongly recommended to avoid potential issues at immigration.

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand European Union Member States (Schengen) Japan South Korea Hong Kong

How to Apply: Apply online via the official Bahrain eVisa website (https://www.evisa.gov.bh/). Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, but can be faster.
Cost: Approximately BHD 25 (approx. USD 66) for a two-week visa, BHD 44 (approx. USD 117) for a one-month, multiple-entry visa.

You must have a confirmed return ticket and a passport valid for at least six months. Some nationalities listed may be eligible for Visa on Arrival, but the online eVisa is more reliable. Always check the official website for the most current list of eligible countries.

Visa Required

As determined by the visa type.

Nationals of countries not listed in the above categories must apply for a traditional visa in advance.

How to Apply: Must apply through a Bahraini embassy or consulate in their country of residence. This process requires an invitation letter from a sponsor in Bahrain (hotel, company, or individual).

The process can be lengthy. It is essential to start the application well in advance of your planned travel date.

Arrival Process

The entry process at Bahrain International Airport (BAH) is straightforward. Follow signs for Arrivals and Passport Control.

Passport Control

Present your passport, completed disembarkation card (if provided on the flight), and visa (if obtained in advance or proof of eVisa approval) to the immigration officer. Your fingerprints and a photograph will be taken.

Baggage Claim

Proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage after clearing immigration.

Customs

Walk through the Green Channel if you have nothing to declare, or the Red Channel if you have goods to declare or are unsure. Your bags may be scanned or inspected.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Required for all travelers.

Visa

Either a pre-approved eVisa printout/confirmation, a Visa on Arrival (if eligible and opting for it), or a sticker visa in your passport. GCC nationals use their National ID Card.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof of planned departure from Bahrain may be requested by immigration.

Proof of Accommodation

A hotel booking confirmation or address of your stay in Bahrain may be requested.

Sufficient Funds

You may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay (e.g., cash, credit cards).

Tips for Smooth Entry

Apply for an eVisa online at least one week before travel, even if you are eligible for Visa on Arrival, to ensure a smoother process.

Have all your documents (passport, visa printout, hotel & flight confirmations) easily accessible in your hand luggage.

Dress respectfully when going through immigration and in public areas of the airport.

Be polite and answer immigration questions clearly and concisely.

Customs & Duty-Free

Bahrain customs regulations are strictly enforced. Declare all items of value, restricted goods, or items over your duty-free allowance.

Alcohol

Non-Muslim travelers over 18 years are allowed 6 cans of beer OR 1 liter of spirits OR 1 liter of wine.

Alcohol can only be purchased from licensed premises (e.g., hotels, specific stores) and consumed in private or licensed venues. Public intoxication is illegal.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco.

Age restrictions apply.

Currency

No limit on the amount of foreign or local currency you can bring in.

Amounts exceeding BHD 12,000 (approx. USD 32,000) or equivalent must be declared upon arrival.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts up to a value of BHD 1,000 (approx. USD 2,650).

Items exceeding this value may be subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - severe penalties including imprisonment
Pornographic materials
Firearms, ammunition, and weapons without prior permission
Radio communication equipment without prior approval
Items that are blasphemous or insulting to Islam

Restricted Items

Prescription medication - must be in original packaging, with a doctor's prescription, and quantities reasonable for personal use. Some medications common elsewhere may be controlled substances in Bahrain.
Animal products and plants - require health certificates and prior permission from the Ministry of Agriculture.
Religious materials - for personal use only; large quantities or materials intended for distribution may be scrutinized.

Health Requirements

There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Bahrain for most travelers, but some are recommended.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio)
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid (for longer stays or visiting rural areas)

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is not mandatory for entry but is highly recommended. Medical treatment in Bahrain can be expensive for visitors.

Current Health Requirements: As of April 2025, there are no COVID-19 vaccination, testing, or quarantine requirements for entry into Bahrain. However, this is subject to change; check the latest health advisories from the Bahraini Ministry of Health before travel.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Bahrain.

Check your government's travel advisory website (e.g., US State Department, UK FCDO) for contact details and support information.

Immigration Authority

Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA)

Official source for visa and immigration information: https://www.bahrain.bh or the eVisa portal: https://www.evisa.gov.bh/

Emergency

Emergency services number

Police, ambulance, fire: 999

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport. If a child is traveling with only one parent, with other relatives, or alone, it is advisable to carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) to avoid immigration delays. This is not always required but strongly recommended.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, a valid veterinary health certificate, and proof of up-to-date vaccinations (including rabies). Pets must be microchipped. There is a mandatory quarantine period, the length of which depends on the country of origin. The process is complex and must be started months in advance.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas (VoA/eVisa) can often be extended for an additional period (e.g., another two weeks or month) by visiting the NPRA office in Manama for a fee. For longer stays (work, study, family), you must apply for the appropriate long-term residency visa through a local sponsor before arrival.

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