In a major move designed to attract global talent, investors, and long-term residents, the Kingdom of Bahrain has officially opened applications for its prestigious Golden Residency Visa, offering a seamless pathway for eligible foreigners to live and work in the Gulf nation with enhanced privileges in 2025.
Whether you’re a successful entrepreneur, a property investor, a highly skilled professional, a retired individual, or a resident foreigner with strong roots in Bahrain, the Golden Visa opens the door to a wealth of opportunities and long-term security.
What is the Big Change for Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa?
The Golden Residency Visa is Bahrain’s elite long-term residence program that offers foreigners the ability to live, invest, and stay in Bahrain permanently. Launched to attract global talent, high-value investors, and experienced professionals, this visa is a game-changer for those seeking stability and opportunity in the Gulf.
The Golden Visa is issued indefinitely (with renewals every 10 years) and opens the door to permanent residency privileges, family sponsorship, health services access, and now — work authorization.
Eligible Categories
To qualify for the Golden Residency Visa, foreign nationals must fall into one of the following categories:
1# Retired Foreigners (Non-Residents)
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- Minimum basic monthly pension of BD 4,000.
- Must provide proof of income and a 6-month bank statement.
2# Property Owners in Bahrain
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- Must own properties worth BD 200,000 or more.
- Must present a valid title deed and health insurance.
3# Talented Individuals
Nominated by a government agency in fields like:
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- Academics (PhD or higher in priority fields)
- Sports and Athletics
- Inventors and Patent Holders
- Entrepreneurs (with incubator approval)
- Award-winning Artists, Authors, or Creators.
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4# Long-term Employees in Bahrain
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- Must have worked for 5+ years in Bahrain.
- Must have earned an average monthly salary of BD 2,000 over the last 5 years.
5# Retired Residents of Bahrain
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- Must have worked in Bahrain’s public or private sector for 15+ years.
- Final 5-year average pension should be BD 2,000 or more.
Golden Residency Holders Can Now Apply for a Work Permit in 2025
In a bold expansion of privileges, Golden Visa holders are now eligible to apply for a formal work permit in Bahrain starting April 2025. This development transforms the Golden Visa from a passive residency status into a full-fledged life and career opportunity.
This means that whether you’re an investor, retired expat, or a skilled academic — you can legally work or run a business in Bahrain under your Golden Visa status.
Work Permit Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a work permit under the Golden Visa:
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- You must hold a valid Golden Residency Visa
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
- Your Commercial Register (CR), if applicable, must have no violations
- If your current visa status is “To Be Renewed” but not expired, submit a termination form to waive administrative charges.
Required Documents for Application Submission:
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- Copy of the Golden Visa
- Copy of Passport
- Bilingual Employment Contract (Arabic and English, stamped on official letterhead)
- No Objection Certificate (if working in a specialized field)
- Copy of Smart Card (if available)
- Proof of Commercial Register or property ownership (for business applicants).
Bahrain Work Permit Application Fees in 2025
With following fee structure it will take almost 10 days of application processing time to get your work permit for Bahrain in 2025:
| Type of Work Permit | Fee (BD) |
|---|---|
| Standard (1 year) | BD 172 |
| Parallel Bahrainization route | BD 250 |
| Monthly Admin Charge | BD 5 |
So, Why Consider Bahrain in 2025?
With no income tax, a safe and modern lifestyle, and a rapidly diversifying economy, Bahrain offers one of the most attractive residency and work ecosystems in the Gulf. The new Golden Residency Visa + Work Permit combo offers freedom, flexibility, and future potential — whether you’re planning to retire in luxury, invest in booming real estate, or continue your professional journey.
Work Permit Announcement: https://www.bahrain.bh/wps/portal/en/BNP/ServicesCatalogue/GSX-UI-PServiceDetails?psID=2444.
Golden Residency Announcement: https://www.npra.gov.bh/en/services/visas-residence-permit/residence-permits-services/golden-residency/.
