Bahrain Passport Visa Free Countries (2026)

Bahraini passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries worldwide. Here’s a categorized list of these destinations:

Bahrain Passport Visa Free Countries

Visa-Free Access:

Europe: Albania, Belarus, Kosovo, Serbia, United Kingdom
Asia: Georgia, Hong Kong, Iran, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan
North America: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
South America: Argentina, Ecuador
Oceania: Cook Islands, Micronesia, New Zealand, Niue, Samoa, Vanuatu
Africa: Botswana, Egypt, Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, Tunisia, Zambia

Visa on Arrival:

Asia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Iraq, Laos, Macau, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Yemen
South America: Bolivia
Oceania: Palau, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu
Africa: Burundi, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zimbabwe

eVisa (Electronic Visa) Access:

Europe: Russia, Ukraine
Asia: Taiwan, Tajikistan, Vietnam
North America: Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis
South America: Colombia, Suriname
Africa: Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, Lesotho, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Sudan

Please note that visa requirements can change, and it’s advisable to check the latest information before traveling.

What Countries Do Bahrain Citizens Need A Visa For?

Bahraini citizens enjoy varying degrees of visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to numerous countries. However, they are required to obtain a visa prior to traveling to certain destinations.

Countries Requiring a Visa for Bahraini Citizens:

Europe: Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Asia: Bhutan, India, Japan, Mongolia, Myanmar, North Korea, Turkmenistan.
Africa: Algeria, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ghana, Liberia, Libya, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Sudan, South Sudan.
Americas: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Guyana, Mexico, Paraguay, Suriname, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela.
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu

Do Bahrainis Need Visa For America?

Yes, Bahraini citizens are required to obtain a visa to travel to the United States. They are not eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, which allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business without a visa.

To apply for a U.S. tourist visa (B-1/B-2), Bahraini applicants need to complete the Non-Immigrant Visa Electronic Application Form (DS-160), pay the visa application fee, and schedule an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Manama. Required documents include a valid passport, a recent photograph, proof of payment, and any supporting documents that demonstrate the purpose of the visit and intent to return to Bahrain.

It’s important to note that visa requirements and procedures can change, so it’s advisable to consult the official U.S. Embassy website or contact the embassy directly for the most current information

Do Bahrainis Need Visa For Europe?

Yes, Bahraini citizens are required to obtain a visa to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. The Schengen Area comprises 29 European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing for free and unrestricted movement of people.

As of April 2024, the European Union has relaxed visa rules for citizens of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. Nationals of these countries are now eligible for multiple-entry Schengen visas with a validity of up to five years. This means Bahraini citizens can visit the EU multiple times over five years with the same visa, enjoying travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals during the visa’s validity period.

To apply for a Schengen visa, Bahraini citizens should submit their applications to the embassy or consulate of the country that is their main destination. For instance, the French Embassy in Bahrain processes Schengen visa applications for France, Austria, and Portugal.

Similarly, the German Embassy in Manama handles visa applications for Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, and Slovenia.

The application process generally involves submitting a completed application form, a valid passport, recent photographs, proof of travel insurance, evidence of accommodation, and financial means, among other documents. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to consult the official websites of the embassies or consulates of the countries you plan to visit.

Countries That Gives Visa On Arrival For Bahraini Passport Holders?

Bahraini passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival in several countries across various regions. Here are some notable destinations:

Asia:

Armenia: Visa on arrival for up to 120 days.
Azerbaijan: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Bangladesh: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Cambodia: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Iran: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Iraq: Visa on arrival available.
Laos: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Maldives: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Nepal: Visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
Sri Lanka: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Timor-Leste: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Yemen: Visa on arrival for up to 3 months.

Africa:

Benin: Visa on arrival for 8 or 30 days.
Cape Verde: Visa on arrival available.
Comoros: Visa on arrival available.
Gabon: Visa on arrival available.
Guinea-Bissau: Visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
Kenya: Visa on arrival for up to 3 months.
Madagascar: Visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
Malawi: Visa on arrival available.
Mauritania: Visa on arrival available.
Mozambique: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Rwanda: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Senegal: Visa on arrival for up to 90 days.
Seychelles: Visa on arrival for up to 3 months.
Sierra Leone: Visa on arrival available.
Somalia: Visa on arrival available.
Tanzania: Visa on arrival for up to 3 months.
Togo: Visa on arrival for up to 7 days.
Uganda: Visa on arrival available.
Zimbabwe: Visa on arrival for up to 3 months.

Americas:

Bolivia: Visa on arrival for up to 90 days.

Oceania:

Palau: Visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
Samoa: Visa on arrival for up to 60 days.
Tuvalu: Visa on arrival for up to 1 month

Traveling To UK For Bahraini Passport Holders?

The United Kingdom (UK) is a popular destination for travelers from Bahrain, offering a rich mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. Bahraini passport holders planning a trip to the UK should familiarize themselves with visa requirements, travel regulations, and useful tips to ensure a smooth journey.

As of now, Bahraini citizens require a visa to enter the UK. The type of visa depends on the purpose of the visit:

Visitor Visa: For tourism, family visits, or business purposes, valid for up to six months.
Student Visa: For educational purposes, including short courses or university degrees.
Work Visa: For employment opportunities, requiring a job offer from a UK-based employer.

Application Process:

Determine the Visa Type: Visit the official UK government website to select the appropriate visa type.
Online Application: Complete the online application form on the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) portal.
Supporting Documents: Prepare necessary documents, including:
- A valid Bahraini passport (with at least six months’ validity).
- Proof of financial stability (bank statements or sponsorship letters).
- Travel itinerary (flight tickets and accommodation details).
- Any additional documents based on the visa type.
Biometric Appointment: Schedule an appointment at a visa application center for biometrics and document submission.
Visa Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable visa fee online during the application process.

Processing Time:

Visa processing typically takes 3–6 weeks. Applying well in advance is advisable to avoid delays.

Travel Requirements and Preparations

Once your visa is approved, the next step is planning your journey.

Flight Options

Several airlines operate flights between Bahrain and the UK, including British Airways and Gulf Air. Most flights land at major airports such as London Heathrow or Manchester Airport. Direct flights take approximately 7 hours.

Health and Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of belongings.

COVID-19 Protocols

As of January 2025, there may still be COVID-19-related entry requirements. Bahraini travelers should check the UK government’s travel advisory for updates on vaccination proof, testing, or quarantine requirements.

Customs and Entry Guidelines

Documents to Carry

Valid passport and visa.
Return flight ticket.
Proof of funds and accommodation.
Purpose of travel (e.g., hotel bookings or an invitation letter).

UK Border Control

Upon arrival, Bahraini travelers will go through border control. Be prepared to answer questions about your visit’s purpose and length. Ensure that all documents are accessible for verification.

Currency and Financial Considerations

The UK uses the British Pound Sterling (£). Bahraini travelers can exchange currency at airports, banks, or authorized money exchangers. International credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Notify your bank of international travel to avoid disruptions.

Transportation in the UK

The UK offers extensive public transportation options:

Trains: Operated by companies like National Rail, connecting major cities and regions.
Buses: Affordable and efficient for local and intercity travel.
Underground (Tube): Convenient for navigating London.
Taxis and Rideshares: Services like Uber operate across the UK.

Cultural Tips and Etiquette

Language: English is the official language.
Time Zone: The UK follows GMT (or BST during daylight savings).
Tipping: Optional but appreciated in restaurants (10–15% of the bill).
Politeness: British culture emphasizes courtesy. Use “please” and “thank you” frequently.

Exploring the UK

Bahraini visitors can explore diverse attractions:

London: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.
Edinburgh: Historic castles and the Royal Mile.
Manchester and Liverpool: Vibrant music and sports scenes.
The Cotswolds: Quaint countryside villages.

Emergency Contacts

Police, Ambulance, and Fire Services: Dial 999.
Bahrain Embassy in the UK: Located in London, the embassy provides assistance for Bahraini nationals.

Conclusion

Traveling as a Bahraini passport holder requires careful planning, especially regarding visa applications and travel arrangements. With proper preparation, you can enjoy the country’s rich heritage, vibrant cities, and scenic landscapes, ensuring a memorable experience.