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Bahrain Reduces Golden Residency Visa Fees by 35% to Boost Investor Interest

November 29, 2025 4:27 am

Bahrain Reduces Golden Residency Visa Fees by 35% to Boost Investor Interest

Bahrain is working to boost its appeal to investors and skilled professionals. Recently, the Kingdom announced a 35% reduction in fees for the Golden Residency Visa. This move simplifies and lowers the financial barrier for those seeking permanent residency.

Key Changes to the Golden Residency Visa Program

The Ministry of Interior’s Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) has revised the investment requirements. Previously, applicants needed to invest at least 200,000 Bahraini Dinars (approximately USD 530,000) in real estate. The new minimum investment requirement is now just 130,000 Bahraini Dinars (about USD 345,000).

Investment Requirements:

Old Minimum Investment: 200,000 BHD (USD 530,000)
New Minimum Investment: 130,000 BHD (USD 345,000)

This adjustment opens the door for property owners in Bahrain whose investments meet the new threshold. It aims to attract more investors seeking long-term residency and stability within the Gulf region.

Eligibility for the Golden Residency Visa

Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa is available to more than just real estate investors. The following groups can also apply:

Property owners with an investment of at least 130,000 BHD.
Employees who have worked for at least five years in Bahrain, earning an average monthly salary of 2,000 BHD (USD 5,306).
Retirees who have spent 15 years in Bahrain and earn at least 2,000 BHD monthly.
Non-resident retirees receiving a monthly pension of 4,000 BHD (USD 10,624) or more.
Talented professionals and entrepreneurs who make significant contributions to the economy or society.

Application Process

To apply for the Golden Residency Visa, interested individuals should visit the official NPRA website. The required documentation includes:

A valid passport
Proof of previous residence
Six months of bank statements
Valid health insurance in Bahrain

The application costs 5 BHD per person, with a residency issuance fee of 300 BHD per person, both of which are non-refundable.

Advantages of Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa

One standout feature of Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa is its permanence. Here are some of the notable benefits:

Lifetime Validity: The residency remains valid indefinitely, offering long-term stability for individuals and their families.
Family Inclusiveness: Spouses, children, and parents can be included under one residency permit.
Employment Freedom: Visa holders enjoy unrestricted employment opportunities within Bahrain.
Convenient Travel: The visa allows multiple entries, facilitating easy travel in and out of the country.
Family Sponsorship: Holders can sponsor their family members, supporting long-term living arrangements.

Business and Lifestyle Benefits

The Golden Residency program also grants foreigners 100% ownership of businesses. Bahrain is renowned for its affordable housing, secure environment, and efficient digital government services, which continue to attract skilled professionals and investors.

Conclusion

Bahrain’s recent reduction of the Golden Residency Visa fees reflects its commitment to enhancing its status as a prime destination for investment and long-term residency. This strategic move aims to invigorate the real estate market and invite global talent. By simplifying access to residency, Bahrain is setting the stage for a prosperous future in the Gulf region.