Bahrain operates one of the most open visa policies in the Arabian Gulf. In 2026, citizens from over 100 countries are eligible to apply for a Bahrain eVisa online through the official portal at evisa.gov.bh. This page lists the main eligible countries and explains what options are available for those not on the eVisa list.
Overview of Bahrain's Visa Policy
Bahrain divides foreign nationals into three main entry categories:
- eVisa eligible – Apply online before travel (over 100 nationalities)
- Visa on Arrival eligible – Receive a visa upon arrival at the airport (includes many nationalities and all GCC residents)
- Prior visa required – Must apply through a Bahraini embassy or consulate before travel
Always check the official Bahrain immigration portal for the most current list, as eligibility can change.
Countries Eligible for Bahrain eVisa
The following nationalities are among those eligible for the online eVisa system. This list is indicative – always verify on evisa.gov.bh:
Europe
All EU member states (Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden), United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ukraine, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova.
Americas
United States of America, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador, Paraguay, Bolivia, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados.
Asia-Pacific
Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, Hong Kong (SAR), Macao (SAR), Taiwan, India (select categories), Sri Lanka (select categories).
Africa and Middle East
South Africa, Mauritius, Seychelles, Tunisia, Morocco. Note: Most Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar) do not need any visa for Bahrain.
GCC Residents – Special Rules
Residents of GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar) who hold a valid residency permit can enter Bahrain without pre-applying for any visa. They qualify for the Bahrain visa on arrival, which is issued free of charge at the port of entry.
Countries Not Eligible for eVisa
Citizens of countries not on the eVisa eligibility list may still be able to visit Bahrain through:
- Visa on arrival – available for additional nationalities beyond the eVisa list
- Embassy or consulate visa – apply in your home country before travel
- Sponsored visit visa – arranged by a Bahraini resident or company
Citizens of countries subject to travel restrictions or diplomatic tensions may face additional requirements or outright refusal. Always check current advisories from your own government as well as the Bahrain Ministry of Interior.
How to Check Your Eligibility
To confirm your eligibility:
- Visit evisa.gov.bh
- Navigate to the "Check Visa Eligibility" or "List of Countries" section
- Enter your nationality to see which visa category applies to you
Dual Nationals
If you hold two passports from different countries, you may choose to enter Bahrain using whichever passport is most advantageous in terms of visa requirements – provided both are valid. However, you must use the same passport consistently throughout your trip (entry and exit).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Indian passport holders get a Bahrain eVisa?
Indian nationals may be eligible for a visa on arrival in Bahrain. However, eligibility for the online eVisa varies. Indian residents of GCC countries typically qualify for a free visa on arrival. Always verify current rules on evisa.gov.bh before travel.
Can Pakistani nationals apply for a Bahrain eVisa?
Pakistani nationals generally need to apply for a Bahrain visa through an embassy or may use a visa on arrival if they hold a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa. Check the latest rules on the official portal.
Are there any countries whose citizens are banned from entering Bahrain?
Bahrain does not publicly maintain a formal ban list, but citizens of certain countries may face significant restrictions. If you have concerns about your nationality, contact the Bahraini embassy in your country.
Does having an Israeli passport stamp affect my Bahrain visa application?
Bahrain normalised relations with Israel as part of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Israeli passport holders can apply for a Bahrain eVisa, and Israeli stamps in passports are generally accepted.
How often does the Bahrain eVisa eligible countries list change?
The list is subject to change based on diplomatic relations and bilateral agreements. Major updates typically occur once or twice a year. Check the official portal before each trip.
