Skip to main content

Bahrain Visa for United Kingdom Citizens 2026

Visa on Arrival

UK citizens traveling to Bahrain can obtain a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport for tourism, valid for 14 days, with a BD 25 fee (approx USD 66); no pre-approval is required, and you may also use the official eVisa portal for advance preparation if desired.

Guide last updated September 4, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport validity: passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Bahrain.
  • Specific forms: no pre-travel visa application required for visa on arrival; there is an online eVisa option at https://www.evisa.gov.bh/ if you prefer to apply in advance.
  • Financial proof: no fixed minimum balance is published for visa on arrival; ensure you have enough funds to cover your stay (recommended at least BD 100 per day).
  • Accommodation and return ticket: have you hotel/address details or an invitation letter, and a return/onward ticket.
  • Photo spec: not required to submit a photo in advance for visa on arrival; immigration may take a biometric photo if needed.
  • Biometrics: biometrics may be collected at the port of entry if required by immigration authorities.
  • Travel health insurance: not mandatory, but strongly recommended.

Visa types

  • Tourist visa on arrival: Official name: Tourist visa on arrival; Validity: 14 days from issue; Maximum stay: 14 days; Entry: single; Approximate fee: BD 25 (~USD 66).
  • Business visa on arrival: Official name: Business visa on arrival; Validity: 14 days from issue; Maximum stay: 14 days; Entry: single; Approximate fee: BD 25 (~USD 66).
  • Notes: Longer stays or different purpose may require an eVisa obtained online in advance; check http://www.evisa.gov.bh/ for options and up-to-date requirements.

How to apply

  • Visa on arrival: proceed to immigration at Bahrain International Airport on arrival. Present passport valid 6+ months, return/onward ticket, and hotel/address details.
  • Fee payment: visa fee of BD 25 is payable at the counter in Bahraini dinars (cash); some counters may accept USD.
  • Processing time: visa issuance is typically immediate or within 30–120 minutes depending on queue and arrivals.
  • Documentation tips: there is no online submission required for on-arrival visas; if you prefer to secure entry in advance, you can apply online at https://www.evisa.gov.bh/ but on-arrival remains available.
  • Entry conditions: the visa granted is usually single-entry and valid for 14 days from issue; ensure you depart before expiry unless an extension is approved by Bahraini authorities.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: BD 25 (approximately USD 66).
  • Other fees: none published for the on-arrival process; if using the online eVisa option, separate online processing fees may apply.
  • Total cost estimate: BD 25 (~USD 66).
  • Standard processing time: immediate to 2 hours at the airport depending on queues.
  • Express/priority option: not applicable for visa on arrival; eVisa options may offer faster processing online.

Tips for United Kingdom travelers

  • Plan ahead: while visa on arrival is available, you may save time by applying for an eVisa in advance via https://www.evisa.gov.bh/ if you prefer a pre-cleared entry.
  • Common reasons for delays or denial: passport validity under 6 months, lack of return ticket, insufficient funds declared for the stay, or unclear purpose of visit.
  • VFS/BLS vs direct embassy application: visa on arrival does not require VFS/BLS; for advance eVisa, you are using the official online portal rather than an embassy center.
  • Travel advisories: check the UK government travel advice for Bahrain for any temporary restrictions or advisories before travel; ensure you comply with health and safety requirements.
  • Extension options: visa on arrival is typically for short stays (up to 14 days); extensions, if possible, require approval from Bahraini authorities (generally through MOI/MOI-approved channels) and are not guaranteed.

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

More visa guides for United Kingdom passport holders

FranceGermanyItalySpainUnited StatesAustraliaView all →

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.