Bahrain Cuts Golden Residency Visa Cost by 35% to Attract More Investors

Bahrain has made it easier and more affordable for foreigners to settle in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Interior’s Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) just announced a major update to the Golden Residency Visa program. They have reduced the minimum investment needed by 35 per cent.

Lower Investment Requirement for Golden Visas

Until now, golden visa applicants had to invest at least 200,000 Bahraini Dinars (around USD 530,000) in real estate to qualify. Now, the threshold has dropped to 130,000 Bahraini Dinars (about USD 345,000).

• Old Investment: 200,000 BHD (USD 530,000)
• New Investment: 130,000 BHD (USD 345,000)

This change means that anyone who already owns property in Bahrain worth at least 130,000 BHD can now apply for the Golden Residency Visa. The move is expected to bring in more investors and professionals seeking long-term stability in the Gulf.

Who Can Apply for a Golden Residency Visa

Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa is not only for real estate investors. You can apply if you belong to one of the following groups:

• Property owners meeting the new investment threshold.
• Employees who have worked in Bahrain for at least five years with an average monthly salary of BHD 2,000 (USD 5,306).
• Retirees who have spent a minimum of 15 years working in Bahrain and earn at least BHD 2,000 monthly.
• Non-resident retirees with a monthly pension of BHD 4,000 (USD 10,624) or more.
• Talented professionals and entrepreneurs who contribute significantly to the economy or society.

How to Apply

All the applications for the Golden Residency Visa are managed by the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) under the Ministry of Interior.

To apply, you just need to visit the official NPRA website and submit:

• A valid passport
• Proof of previous residence
• Six months of bank statements
• Health insurance valid in Bahrain

The application fee is BHD 5 per person, and the residency issuance fee is BHD 300 per person, both non-refundable.

Why Bahrain’s Golden Residency Stands Out

One of the biggest draws of Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa is that it’s truly permanent, a lifetime opportunity for you and your family to settle with ease.

Here’s what makes the Golden Residency Visa more appealing:

• No Expiry Date: The residency is valid for life, offering complete stability.
• Family Coverage: Spouses, children, and even parents can be included under one residency.
• Work Flexibility: Visa holders can take up employment anywhere in Bahrain without restrictions.
• Easy Travel: The visa offers multiple entries for seamless in-and-out travel.
• Dependent Sponsorship: Holders can sponsor family members, adding convenience for long-term living.

Business and Lifestyle Advantages

The program gives foreigners 100% business ownership rights and access to Bahrain’s growing digital and business ecosystem. The country is known for its affordable housing, safe environment, and efficient online government services, key factors that appeal to investors and skilled professionals.

Why It Matters

By reducing the requirements, Bahrain aims to increase demand in its real estate market and enhance its status as a regional centre for long-term residency, business, and investment.

This change shows a broader trend in the Gulf to make residency easier and more accessible to attract global talent and investors.