British passport holder applying for Bahrain eVisa online

Bahrain eVisa for UK Citizens

Complete guide for British passport holders applying for a Bahrain electronic visa. Fast, secure, and convenient online application process.

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Bahrain eVisa for UK Citizens: Everything You Need to Know

As a British citizen, obtaining a Bahrain eVisa is a straightforward process that allows you to visit the Kingdom of Bahrain for tourism, business, or family visits. The Bahrain electronic visa system enables UK passport holders to apply online without the need to visit an embassy or consulate in person, making travel planning more convenient than ever.

The Bahrain eVisa for UK citizens is an electronic travel authorization that grants permission to enter Bahrain for short-term stays. The entire application process is completed digitally, and once approved, your eVisa is sent directly to your email address. This modern system has revolutionized the visa application process for British travelers, saving time and eliminating unnecessary paperwork.

UK citizens are among the eligible nationalities who qualify for the Bahrain eVisa program. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential information British travelers need, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, required documentation, fees, processing times, and practical tips to ensure a successful application and smooth entry into Bahrain.

Types of Bahrain eVisas Available for UK Citizens

British passport holders can choose from several eVisa options based on their travel needs

Single Entry Tourist eVisa

Validity: 90 days from approval

Stay Duration: Up to 14 days

Entries: Single entry only

Ideal for short holiday trips and sightseeing in Bahrain.

Multiple Entry Tourist eVisa

Validity: 90 days from approval

Stay Duration: Up to 30 days per visit

Entries: Multiple entries allowed

Perfect for frequent travelers visiting Bahrain several times.

Business eVisa

Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, events

Stay Duration: Typically 14-30 days

Designed for British professionals conducting business activities.

Explore all available options in our detailed guide to Bahrain eVisa types.

Bahrain eVisa Requirements for UK Citizens

To successfully apply for a Bahrain eVisa, British citizens must fulfill the following requirements:

Essential Document Requirements

  • Valid UK Passport: Your British passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned date of entry into Bahrain. Ensure there is at least one blank page available for immigration stamps.
  • Passport Biography Page: A clear, colored scan or photograph of your passport's data page showing your photo, personal details, and passport number.
  • Recent Photograph: A digital passport-sized photograph with a white background, meeting Bahrain eVisa photo requirements. The photo must be recent (taken within the last 6 months).
  • Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter if staying with family or friends in Bahrain. This demonstrates your planned place of residence during your stay.
  • Return Flight Ticket: Confirmed return or onward flight booking showing your departure from Bahrain. This proves your intention to leave the country within the permitted time.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in Bahrain, such as recent bank statements or credit card information.
  • Valid Email Address: A working email address is required to receive your approved eVisa, application updates, and important notifications.

For comprehensive details on passport specifications, consult our guide on Bahrain eVisa passport requirements.

How UK Citizens Can Apply for Bahrain eVisa

Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official Bahrain eVisa portal and fill out the application form with accurate personal information, passport details, and travel plans. The form typically takes 10-15 minutes to complete.

  • ✓ Full name exactly as shown on your passport
  • ✓ Date of birth and British nationality
  • ✓ UK passport number, issue date, and expiry date
  • ✓ Intended arrival and departure dates in Bahrain
  • ✓ Purpose of visit (tourism, business, family)

Learn more about filling the Bahrain eVisa form correctly.

Step 2: Upload Required Documents

Submit digital copies of your UK passport bio-data page and a recent photograph. Ensure all documents are clear, in color, and meet the specified technical requirements.

  • ✓ Passport scan (JPG or PNG format, high resolution)
  • ✓ Digital photograph (4x6 cm, white background)
  • ✓ Additional supporting documents if requested

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee Securely

Make a secure online payment using your credit or debit card. All major card types are accepted. The visa fee varies based on the type of visa selected and is non-refundable even if your application is denied.

Step 4: Receive Your eVisa by Email

Once approved, your Bahrain eVisa will be sent to your registered email address. Print a copy of your eVisa to present to immigration officials upon arrival at Bahrain International Airport.

For detailed step-by-step guidance, visit our comprehensive application guide.

British passport with Bahrain eVisa application documents

Processing Time for UK Citizens

Most Bahrain eVisa applications for UK citizens are processed within 5 to 7 working days. However, processing times can vary depending on several factors:

  • Application Volume: During peak travel seasons or major events (such as the F1 Grand Prix), processing may take longer due to increased application volumes.
  • Document Verification: If your application requires additional verification or documentation, this can extend the processing time.
  • Public Holidays: Applications submitted during Bahraini public holidays or weekends may experience processing delays.
  • Completeness of Application: Incomplete applications or those with errors will require corrections, causing delays.

Expert Recommendation: British travelers should submit their eVisa application at least 2-3 weeks before their intended travel date. This provides adequate time for processing and allows you to address any potential issues that may arise during the review process.

For urgent travel needs, expedited processing options may be available at an additional cost. Learn more about Bahrain eVisa processing times and urgent processing services.

Bahrain eVisa Fees for UK Citizens

Visa Type Validity Period Maximum Stay Approximate Cost
Single Entry Tourist eVisa 90 days from approval 14 days From £60-£85
Multiple Entry Tourist eVisa 90 days from approval 30 days per visit From £80-£110
Business eVisa Varies 14-30 days From £70-£95

Important Note: All fees are subject to change by the Bahraini government without prior notice. The exact amount will be displayed during the online application process. Payment is processed in the local currency and converted to GBP based on current exchange rates. For the most current and detailed fee information, visit our Bahrain eVisa fees page.

Validity and Duration of Stay

Understanding eVisa Validity

The Bahrain eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of approval. This means you must enter Bahrain within this 90-day window. If you do not travel within this period, your eVisa will expire and you'll need to submit a new application with payment of the full visa fee.

The validity period starts counting from the date you receive your approval notification, not from your intended travel date. Plan accordingly to ensure your eVisa remains valid for your trip.

Permitted Duration of Stay

Once you enter Bahrain with your eVisa, you are allowed to stay for:

  • Single Entry eVisa: Up to 14 consecutive days from your date of arrival
  • Multiple Entry eVisa: Up to 30 days per individual visit

It is crucial to depart Bahrain before your permitted stay expires to avoid overstay penalties, fines, and potential immigration bans.

Extension Options for UK Citizens: British travelers can request an extension of their Bahrain eVisa before it expires by contacting the General Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Residence in Bahrain. Extensions are granted at the discretion of Bahraini authorities and typically allow for an additional two weeks of stay. Extension fees apply, and you must have valid reasons for extending your visit. For comprehensive information about the extension process, visit our guide on how to extend your Bahrain eVisa.

Essential Tips for UK Citizens Applying for Bahrain eVisa

Verify Your Application Status

Track your eVisa application status online using your application reference number. Regular monitoring helps you stay informed about your approval progress.

Check your eVisa status here

Always Print Your eVisa

Carry a printed copy of your approved eVisa when traveling to Bahrain. Immigration officials will request to see it upon arrival at the airport.

Double-Check All Details

Ensure all information in your application matches your UK passport exactly. Even minor spelling errors or discrepancies can lead to rejection or entry denial.

Frequently Asked Questions - UK Citizens

Yes, UK citizens require a visa to enter the Kingdom of Bahrain. However, British passport holders can conveniently apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online, eliminating the need to visit a Bahraini embassy or consulate. The eVisa is available for tourism, business, and family visits, making travel to Bahrain straightforward for UK residents.

Yes, British citizens are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport for a maximum stay of 14 days. However, applying for an eVisa in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues at immigration, ensure guaranteed entry, and make your arrival process smoother and faster.

Processing times for UK citizens typically range from 5 to 7 working days. However, it's advisable to submit your application at least 2-3 weeks before your planned travel date to account for any potential delays, additional document requests, or peak processing periods.

No, the tourist or business eVisa does not permit employment in Bahrain. UK citizens who wish to work in Bahrain must obtain a separate work visa and residency permit, which must be sponsored by their Bahraini employer. Working with a tourist eVisa is illegal and can result in deportation and future entry bans.

If your application is rejected, you will receive a notification explaining the reason for denial. You can address the identified issues and reapply with corrected information or additional documentation. Note that visa fees are non-refundable even in case of rejection. For common reasons why applications are denied, read our guide on Bahrain eVisa rejection reasons.

Citizens from over 200 countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom, are eligible to apply for a Bahrain eVisa. The program includes travelers from the United States, European Union countries, Australia, Canada, and many other nations. Check our complete list of eligible countries to confirm your eligibility.

Ready to Apply for Your Bahrain eVisa?

UK citizens can start their Bahrain eVisa application today and receive approval within days. Our streamlined online process makes it easy to obtain your travel authorization quickly and securely. Apply now and get ready to explore the fascinating Kingdom of Bahrain!

Start Your Application Now