🇧🇭 Bahrain Opens Doors to Global Talent with the 2025 Golden Residency Visa and Work Permit

The Kingdom of Bahrain has made a bold move in 2025 by officially launching applications for its highly sought-after Golden Residency Visa. This visa offers eligible foreigners a long-term path to live and work in Bahrain with added benefits, making it one of the Gulf region’s most attractive residency options.

Whether you’re an experienced investor, accomplished professional, property owner, or a retired resident with deep ties to Bahrain, the Golden Residency Visa unlocks long-term security and exciting opportunities.

What’s New in Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa Program?

Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa is a long-term residence scheme aimed at attracting international talent, investors, and experienced professionals. The visa is issued indefinitely, with renewals required every 10 years. It comes with key privileges, including:

• Access to public and private healthcare
• Family sponsorship rights
• Ability to own property
• Work authorization starting from April 2025

This change turns the Golden Visa into a powerful platform for foreigners seeking to build their lives and careers in the Gulf.

More details about the program can be found on the Nationality, Passport and Residence Affairs website.

Who Qualifies for Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa?

To be eligible, applicants must meet the criteria in one of the following five categories:

1. Retired Foreign Nationals (Non-Residents)

• Minimum monthly pension: BD 4,000
• Submit proof of pension and 6 months of bank statements

2. Real Estate Investors

• Property ownership worth at least BD 200,000
• Provide title deed and valid health insurance

3. Talented and Distinguished Individuals

Must be nominated by a recognized government agency in fields such as:

• Academics (with a PhD or higher in priority areas)
• Sports and athletics
• Innovation (patent holders or inventors)
• Entrepreneurs (approved by business incubators)
• Award-winning authors, artists, or creatives

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4. Long-Term Foreign Employees in Bahrain

• Minimum of 5 years of employment in Bahrain
• Average salary of BD 2,000 or more over the last 5 years

5. Retired Residents of Bahrain

• Must have worked in the public or private sector for at least 15 years
• Average monthly pension over the final 5 years must be BD 2,000 or higher

New in 2025: Golden Residency Visa Holders Can Apply for a Work Permit

Starting April 2025, Bahrain has expanded the Golden Visa to include the right to work. This major update allows Golden Visa holders to apply for a formal work permit, giving them the freedom to seek employment or operate a business.

Whether you’re a skilled academic, entrepreneur, or retiree looking to stay active professionally, this new policy provides greater flexibility and independence.

The official announcement is available on Bahrain’s government portal.

Work Permit Requirements for Golden Visa Holders

To apply for a work permit under the Golden Residency Visa, you must:

• Hold a valid Golden Residency Visa
• Have a passport with at least 6 months validity
• Maintain a clean record (no violations on your Commercial Register if applicable)
• If your current visa is marked “To Be Renewed” but hasn’t expired, submit a termination form to avoid extra fees

Required Documents

• Copy of your Golden Visa
• Copy of your valid passport
• Bilingual employment contract (Arabic and English) on official letterhead
• No Objection Certificate (if applying for a specialized job)
• Copy of your Smart Card (if available)
• Proof of Commercial Register or property ownership (for business-related applications)

Bahrain Work Permit Fees in 2025

Processing time is approximately 10 working days. The fee structure is as follows:

Why Choose Bahrain in 2025?

Bahrain continues to stand out in the Gulf region for several reasons:

• No personal income tax
• Modern and secure living environment
• A growing and diversified economy
• Access to world-class healthcare and education
• Freedom to work or start a business under one visa

With the new Golden Visa and work permit option, Bahrain is positioning itself as a top destination for investors, skilled professionals, and retirees alike.

More Opportunities: