This Gulf Country Offers A 10-Year Visa Without A Job Or Property Requirement

When you think of long-term visas in the Gulf, flashy billboards and news headlines usually point you toward the UAE's Golden Visa or Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency. But quietly making waves is Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa. Launched in 2022 as part of the country's Vision 2030 economic reform plan, this 10-year visa has been drawing growing attention for making long-term living in the Gulf actually practical.

Bahrain is rolling out the welcome mat without the sky-high financial thresholds or red tape you would find elsewhere in the region. Think of it as a more relaxed, flexible, and affordable cousin to the UAE's well-publicised programme.

Also Read: Golden Visa On Budget: 9 Countries Offering Most Affordable Residency By Investment

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What Makes Bahrain's Golden Residency Different?

Unlike traditional Gulf visas that tie your legal stay to your employer, Bahrain's Golden Residency gives you the freedom to live and work on your own terms. You are not bound to a job contract, meaning you can freelance, start a business, or switch employers without going through bureaucratic gymnastics.

Even better? There's no "use it or lose it" clause. You won't lose your visa if you spend extended time outside Bahrain, a big plus for remote workers, frequent travelers, and retirees who split their time between countries.

Bonus Benefits:

• Lower cost of living than Dubai or Riyadh.
• No employer sponsorship needed.
• Full family benefits (you can sponsor your spouse, kids and parents).
• Renewal flexibility. You don't need to keep working or own property to keep your visa active.

Who Are Eligible To Apply For Bahrain's Golden Residency?

You are eligible for Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa if you fall into any one of these four categories:

Skilled Professionals

• Must have lived in Bahrain for at least 5 years.
• Monthly income of BHD 2,000 (approx Rs 4.4 lakh).

Property Owners

• Real estate in Bahrain worth at least BHD 200,000.

Retirees

• Bahrain residents: Monthly pension of BHD 2,000.
• Non-residents: Monthly pension of BHD 4,000 (approx Rs 8.8 lakh).

Exceptional Talent

• Individuals in science, tech, business, healthcare, or arts.
• Must be nominated or endorsed by relevant Bahraini authorities.

The visa is valid for 10 years and is renewable.

Also Read: False Rumours Of UAE's Golden Visa For Indians Sparks Meme Fest Online

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Bahrain's Golden Residency: How To Apply

Step 1: Check Eligibility - Ensure you meet at least one of the four qualifying criteria.

Step 2: Gather Documents - Valid passport, proof of income, pension, or property, recent medical report, passport-size photo, Bahrain ID (if a current resident).

Step 3: Create an eKey Account - Register for Bahrain's digital government services.

Step 4: Apply Online - Visit NPRA portal, select "Golden Residency Visa," and fill in the form.

Step 5: Pay Initial Fee - Application fee: BHD 5 ( Rs 1,100).

Step 6: Wait for Approval - Processing time: 5-10 working days.

Step 7: Pay Final Visa Fee - Visa fee: BHD 300 (around Rs 66,000).

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If you plan to take up formal employment, you can separately apply for a work permit via Bahrain's LMRA (Labour Market Regulatory Authority).