How to move to Bahrain in 2025

Numerous opportunities for legalisation, combined with a high standard of living in Bahrain, make it a promising destination for relocation. Foreigners can obtain residence permits through employment, enrollment in an accredited university, family reunification, or self-sponsorship, which requires investments of BHD 50,000 ($132,600) and proof of a monthly income of BHD 500 ($1,326).

The kingdom also issues golden visas for 10 years when purchasing property worth BHD 200,000 ($530,500), confirming a monthly income of at least BHD 2,000 ($5,305) or possessing outstanding talents and qualifications. This type of residence permit can be extended. It is a convenient option for foreigners interested in obtaining citizenship through naturalisation. It takes 20 years (5 years for women who have legalised through marriage to a Bahraini).

Pros and cons of moving to Bahrain

The main advantages of immigration to Bahrain include:

• High standard of living and favorable tax system. The kingdom offers comfortable living conditions, thanks to its developed infrastructure and high-quality medical and educational services. The absence of income tax makes it even more attractive for professionals and entrepreneurs who wish to retain a significant portion of their earnings.
• Favorable business climate. The state consistently ranks among the top in terms of ease of doing business. According to The Heritage Foundation's Index of Economic Freedom, in 2024, it ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for trade, investment and financial freedom. It has liberal economic legislation allowing foreigners to own companies without a local partner. The financial sector is well-developed, and the government actively supports startups and investment projects by offering incentives and subsidies.
• Leisure opportunities and beautiful nature. The country is located on islands in the Persian Gulf. It offers numerous beaches, parks, and reserves, such as Al-Areen and Sitra, as well as comfortable conditions for diving, kayaking, and yachting.
• Cosmopolitanism and safety. One of the primary advantages of relocating to Bahrain is its multicultural environment, which fosters a strong tolerance and acceptance of foreigners. Bahrain expat life is safe due to low crime rates and quality law enforcement. The kingdom ranks in the top 20 of the Numbeo Safety Index in 2025. Unlike many neighboring countries, Bahrain has more liberal clothing and lifestyle regulations, making it an attractive destination for expats.
• Strategic location and developed transport system. The country is located at the intersection of international trade routes. It has convenient transport links with other countries. Locals can easily travel throughout the Middle East using the international airport and the high-speed highway connecting it to Saudi Arabia.

The hot climate is disadvantageous, as temperatures can rise above 40 °C in summer. This part of the year has to be spent in air-conditioned rooms. Additionally, although the kingdom is considered a more liberal country than its neighbors, expatriates must adapt to Islamic traditions, especially during Ramadan.

Popular ways to relocate to Bahrain

Investments

Foreign investors can apply for a golden visa to move to live in Bahrain. It is granted to:

• retirees with an income of at least BHD 4,000 ($10,610) per month;
• retirees with at least 15 years of work experience in the kingdom, whose pension payments were at least BHD 2,000 ($5,305) per month for the last 5 years;
• owners of one or more properties in Bahrain, with a total value of BHD 200,000 ($530,500) or more at the time of purchase;
• individuals with outstanding talents and confirmed qualifications who have received recognition from a government agency;
• employees with at least 5 years of work experience in the kingdom, during which their average salary was at least BHD 2,000 ($5,305) per month.

Self-sponsorship

The self-sponsorship programme is available to foreign investors who have invested BHD 100,000 ($265,200) in a business or BHD 50,000 ($132,600) in villas and apartments in Bahrain. Their monthly income must be at least BHD 500 ($1,326). A guarantor is also required to submit documents and ensure all requirements are met.

This category of residence permit is valid for 2, 5, or 10 years, and residents can apply to extend their status. In addition to investors, retirees can also apply.

Employment

Foreigners wishing to live and work in Bahrain can legalise their stay through an employment contract with a local organisation. The employer is responsible for handling the work permit application. They apply to the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). The employee needs to provide:

• a licence;
• an employment contract (the document must be in Arabic, on company letterhead, and contain employee data, signatures of both parties, and the organisation's stamp);
• a medical certificate (obtained after an examination at an authorised centre or other official medical institution);
• a letter or certificate of no objection (issued by the relevant authority for specialised professions).

If the application is approved, the employer gets an identification number and pays government fees. Upon arrival at the international airport, the employee submits biometric data at the LMRA office. Individuals whose income exceeds BHD 1,000 ($2,652) per month can obtain residency for themselves and their family members.

Enrolment in an accredited university

To study, a foreigner must obtain a student visa, which gives the right to visit the kingdom and get residency. In most cases, the process, which includes preparing documents with confirmation of enrollment in a course and tuition payment receipts, takes less than three months.

Students who have not obtained a specialised visa before the start of the academic semester can visit the state with a visitor visa, which requires payment of additional fees and government charges. After the application is approved, they receive permission to live and study.

This residence permit category is issued for 5 years to individuals studying at local educational institutions and 1 year to those studying abroad. Holders of student residency cannot work in the country.

Family reunification

Spouses, children under 24, and parents of residents or citizens are eligible to apply for a family residence permit. They must confirm family ties with appropriate documents, such as birth and marriage certificates. This status can be arranged for single or multiple visits to the kingdom. Holders of family residence permits cannot work in its territory.

Documents required for moving to Bahrain

The standard Bahrain visa documents include:

• a standard application form;
• a passport valid for at least 6 months;
• a medical insurance policy;
• a bank statement for the last 6 months;
• a certificate of no criminal record.

Other documents depend on the residence permit category. For example, proof of investment, such as a certificate of ownership of an apartment or villa in Bahrain, is required when applying for a golden visa.

The process of moving with a Bahrain residence permit

The stages of obtaining a residence permit depend on its category. Let's consider the process of obtaining a golden visa through property purchase:

• Property selection and transaction completion. Foreigners can purchase residential and commercial properties only in permitted zones, which include Seef, Juffair, and Amwaj. After selecting a property, the parties agree on the terms of the deal and conclude a purchase agreement. Then, the buyer submits documents to the Survey and Land Registration Bureau and receives a certificate of ownership.
• Applying for a residence permit. Once the certificate of ownership is included in the list of documents, the investor can apply for residency either in person at a visa centre or online. When applying, a foreign national pays several government fees, depending on the type of property purchased and the number of family members applying for residency along with the buyer. Additional Bahrain visa costs include fees for document processing, medical examination, and issuance of the Bahraini ID.
• Medical examination and background check. Applicants must undergo a medical examination at a certified centre in the kingdom. This procedure consists of a general examination, tests for infectious diseases, and a chest X-ray. During the background check, law enforcement agencies analyse information about the investor to determine if they meet security requirements.
• Obtaining a Bahraini ID. If all checks are passed, the investor receives a residence permit and a Bahraini ID card.

How to obtain permanent residence and citizenship in Bahrain

There is no permanent residence permit in the state. Foreigners can extend their temporary status and then obtain citizenship. The naturalisation period in the kingdom is 20 years. Important considerations are as follows:

• The period can be reduced to 5 years for women who obtained residency through marriage to a Bahraini citizen.
• A passport is issued only to Arabic-speaking individuals who are familiar with local history, traditions, and culture.
• The procedure is not automatic.

In what cases can a residence permit in Bahrain be revoked

The most common reasons for status revocation are:

• visa regime violations – for example, working without permission or staying in the state after visa expiration;
• criminal offences, especially those related to fraud, document forgery, drugs, physical violence, or security threats;
• prolonged stay abroad without a valid reason (timeframes vary depending on the type of visa);
• dismissal – if the residence permit was issued based on employment and the contract is terminated;
• loss of sponsorship – if an employer or family member withdraws sponsorship;
• fictitious marriage – if residency was obtained through a marriage deemed fictitious;
• financial problems – significant debt or financial insolvency;
• public order violations – inappropriate behaviour in public places, participation in protests, or anti-government activities.

Cost of living in Bahrain

As of March 2025, the average monthly Bahrain cost of living (excluding rent) for one person is BHD 328.3 ($870) and BHD 1,163.4 ($3,084) for a family of 4. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an average of BHD 322.5 ($855) and BHD 225.5 ($598) outside the centre. The average cost per m² when buying property in the city centre is BHD 958.3 ($2,542) and BHD 675.1 ($1,791) outside the centre.

Best cities to live in Bahrain

• Manama is the capital of the kingdom, its economic and tourist centre. It houses the largest shopping centres, such as City Centre Bahrain and The Avenues, offering boutiques of global brands, restaurants, and entertainment zones. The city is renowned for its attractions, including the National Museum, where visitors can learn about the country's history, and the Al-Fatih Mosque, one of the world's largest. It suits those who want to live in a dynamic environment with a developed infrastructure, extensive business opportunities, and an active nightlife.
• Riffa is a prestigious city divided into two parts: western and eastern. West Riffa is known for its luxurious villas and elite neighbourhoods, home to the royal family and wealthy Bahrainis. East Riffa offers a high standard of living at an affordable price. The renowned Royal Golf Club, one of the region's premier golf destinations, is situated here. Riffa Fort, a historic attraction, offers a picturesque view of the surrounding area. The city is ideal for families who prefer quietness, safety, and comfort.
• Muharraq is the cultural and historical centre of the kingdom, which until 1923 was its capital. Traditional Bahraini houses, museums, and ancient markets are located here. One of the main attractions is the House of Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al-Khalifa, a historical palace with unique architecture. The municipality also houses the Amwaj Islands complex, popular among wealthy expatriates due to its modern residential complexes, yacht clubs, and beaches. It suits those who want to live in an authentic atmosphere while accessing modern amenities.
• Jidhafs is a rapidly developing city located near Manama. Affordable residential complexes, colourful markets, and shopping centres, such as Al Aali Mall, offering a mix of international and local brands, are located in the area. The city provides an established transport system and more affordable housing than the capital, making it attractive for those who want to save money while staying close to the business centre.
• Hamad is a quiet city 20 km from the capital, known for its spacious villas and family atmosphere. It is home to the Bahrain International Circuit, where a Formula 1 race is held annually. For shopping enthusiasts, the city has Enma Mall, one of the main shopping centres in the area. It offers less dense traffic and a more affordable cost of living than Manama, making it an ideal place for families who prefer a cosy and comfortable lifestyle away from the urban hustle.

Rights and obligations of residents in Bahrain

Residents can live in the country and receive medical care, education, and banking services. With the necessary permits/licences, they also have the right to conduct business activities and work.

The obligations of residence permit holders include compliance with local laws, payment of taxes and fees, and respect for traditions and behavioural norms. Residents who have legalised through employment must adhere to the terms of their contract, and entrepreneurs must comply with commercial and financial legislation.

Key points about moving for permanent residency in Bahrain

• A golden visa is issued for 10 years, requiring investments in real estate of BHD 200,000 ($530,500) or more, confirmation of monthly income of BHD 2,000 ($5,305), or proof of outstanding talents and qualifications.
• Foreigners can own real estate only in special zones.
• Spouses, children under the age of 24, and parents of residents or citizens can legalise through the family reunification programme.
• Foreigners can apply for citizenship through naturalisation after 20 years of continuous residence in the kingdom, but the process is not automatic.
• For women who have obtained a residence permit through marriage to a Bahraini, the naturalisation period is reduced to 5 years.