The Kingdom of Bahrain has formally opened applications for its prestigious Golden Residency Visa, which provides a smooth route for qualified foreigners to live and work in the Gulf country with increased privileges in 2025. This is a significant step aimed at luring international talent, investors, and long-term residents.
The Golden Visa gives you access to a multitude of opportunities and long-term stability, regardless of your background—whether you’re a successful business owner, real estate investor, highly qualified professional, retiree, or foreign national with deep ties to Bahrain.
What is the Big Change for Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa?
Bahrain’s prestigious long-term residency status, the Golden Residency Visa, allows foreigners to live, work, and remain in Bahrain indefinitely. This visa is revolutionary for anyone looking for security and opportunity in the Gulf, as it was introduced to draw in international talent, high-value investors, and seasoned professionals.
The Golden Visa provides access to health care, family sponsorship, work authorisation, and permanent resident rights. It is granted permanently, with ten-year renewals.
Eligible Categories
- Retired Foreigners (Non-Residents)
- Minimum monthly pension: BD 4,000
- Proof of income and a 6-month bank statement required
- Property Owners in Bahrain
- Must own property worth BD 200,000+
- Valid title deed and health insurance required
- Talented Individuals (Nominated by a government agency)
- Academics: PhD or higher in priority fields
- Sports & Athletics: Recognized achievements
- Inventors & Patent Holders
- Entrepreneurs: Business incubator approval
- Award-Winning Artists, Authors, Creators
- Long-Term Employees in Bahrain
- 5+ years of work experience in Bahrain
- Average monthly salary: BD 2,000+ over the last 5 years
- Retired Residents of Bahrain
- 15+ years in Bahrain’s public or private sector
- Final 5-year average pension: BD 2,000+
Golden Residency Holders Can Now Apply for a Work Permit
Golden Visa holders can now apply for an official work visa in Bahrain beginning in April 2025, marking a daring extension of their powers. With this change, the Golden Visa becomes a full-fledged chance for life and employment rather than just a passive residency status.
This implies that you can lawfully work or operate a business in Bahrain under your Golden Visa status, regardless of your background—whether you’re an investor, a retired foreign national, or a talented student.
Work Permit Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a work permit under the Golden Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- own an up-to-date Golden Residency Visa.
- own a passport that is valid for at least six months.
- Verify that there are no infractions on their Commercial Register (CR), if relevant.
- They must file a termination form to avoid administrative fees if their visa status is listed as “To Be Renewed” but hasn’t expired yet.
Required Documents for Application Submission
Applicants must provide the following documents when submitting their work permit application:
- Copy of the Golden Visa.
- Copy of Passport.
- Bilingual Employment Contract (Arabic and English, stamped on official letterhead).
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) – Required for applicants working in specialized fields.
- Copy of Smart Card (if available).
- Proof of Commercial Register (CR) or property ownership – Applicable to business applicants.
Bahrain Work Permit Application Fees in 2025
In 2025, the following pricing schedule will result in an application processing period of about ten days for your Bahraini work permit:
| 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?
Bahrain provides one of the most alluring employment and residence environments in the Gulf thanks to its modern, safe lifestyle, lack of income tax, and quickly expanding economy. Whether you want to continue your career, invest in burgeoning real estate, or retire in luxury, the new Golden Residency Visa + Work Permit combo offers independence, flexibility, and future possibilities.
Conclusion:
With the addition of a work permit option in 2025, Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa offers a special chance for long-term employment, business, and residency in the Gulf. Bahrain is a desirable location for professionals, investors, and retirees looking for stability and success because of its tax-free environment, modern lifestyle, and economic progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa?
With ten-year renewable periods, Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa offers family sponsorship, work authorisation, and permanent residency.
Can Golden Visa holders work in Bahrain?
Yes, from April 2025, Golden Visa holders can apply for a work permit, allowing them to work or run businesses in Bahrain.
