Forget UAE's Golden Visa: Why more Indians are eyeing Bahrain’s Golden Residency | Eligibility, benefits & how to apply

A picture taken from inside the window of a building shows a view of the skyline of Manama on February 28, 2023. (Photo by Giuseppe CACACE / AFP)

As Gulf nations compete to attract foreign talent and investment, Bahrain is quietly emerging as a serious contender to the UAE’s much-hyped Golden Visa. With fewer restrictions, lower financial thresholds, and more personal freedoms, Bahrain’s Golden Residency is drawing growing interest from professionals, retirees, and investors, especially Indians, looking for a long-term, affordable base in the Gulf.

With more freedom, lower costs, and a streamlined process, Bahrain’s 10-year Golden Residency Visa is emerging as a strong alternative to the UAE’s popular Golden Visa.

What sets Bahrain’s residency apart

Bahrain launched its Golden Residency Visa in 2022 to support its Vision 2030 economic plan. The visa offers long-term stay, work flexibility, and family benefits—at a much lower cost than similar options in other Gulf countries.

Moreover, the cost of living in Bahrain is substantially lower compared to the UAE or Saudi Arabia, in terms of daily expenses, education and healthcare. This makes Bahrain an ideal pick for those who are looking to settle long-term.

Another advantage is that Bahrain lets you keep your residency even if you stay abroad for long periods, unlike many Gulf countries that cancel residency if you don’t return within a set time.

The Golden Residency offers full family benefits, allowing easy sponsorship of spouses, parents, and children. Once granted, the visa doesn’t require ongoing employment or property ownership to renew.

Who can apply?  

Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa is open to:

• Foreign residents who have lived in Bahrain for at least five years and earn a minimum monthly salary of BHD 2,000 (approx. Rs 4.6 lakh).

• Property owners with real estate holdings in Bahrain worth at least BHD 200,000 (approx. Rs 4.6 crore).

• Retirees with a monthly income of at least BHD 4,000 (approx. Rs 9.1 lakh).

• Highly talented individuals, investors, and innovators in fields like science, business, healthcare, and education, subject to nomination by relevant Bahraini authorities.

How to apply: Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet one of the criteria mentioned above (income threshold, property value, duration of residence, etc.).

Step 2: Prepare Documents

You will need:

• A valid passport
• Proof of income or investment (salary slips, bank statements, property deeds)
• A recent medical report
• Bahrain ID (if currently a resident)
• Passport-sized photographs

• Visit Bahrain’s Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) portal: https://www.npra.gov.bh
• Choose “Golden Residency Visa” and fill in the required form.

• Pay the applicable visa fee online. The exact fee depends on your visa category.

• The NPRA will review your application. If more information is needed, they will contact you via email.

• Once approved, your Golden Residency Visa and electronic residence permit will be issued. You can also begin sponsoring family members under this visa.