Bahrain Introduces Golden Residency Visa for Foreigners

Bahrain has outlined the eligibility criteria for its Golden Residency Visa, which is aimed at four specific groups: retirees, property owners, talented individuals, and long-term residents employed in the country. Applications must be submitted via the government's eService website.

Retirees living outside Bahrain must have a minimum monthly salary of BD 4,000. Property owners must possess real estate valued at no less than BD 130,000.

Talented individuals must be nominated by a government agency and include academics, athletes, entrepreneurs, inventors, award-winning artists, and authors. Entrepreneurs need approval from an accredited business incubator, while academics must hold a PhD or a higher degree in a priority specialization.

For long-term residents, employees with at least five years of service and an average monthly salary of BD 2,000 qualify, as do retirees with 15 years of service and a pension exceeding BD 2,000. All applicants must have valid health insurance, a passport valid for over six months, and a six-month bank statement.

The application fee is BD 5, and if approved, the Golden Residency is permanent but requires a BD 300 renewal fee every 10 years.