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Business Standard
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Bahrain Golden Visa vs UAE: How Indians can choose the right Gulf path
Dubai's Golden Visa is often the most talked-about long-term residency route in the Gulf. But Bahrain, in 2022, rolled out its own version — the Bahrain Golden Residency Visa — as part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy. This visa offers a 10-year residency with renewal options, targeting global talent, investors, and long-term residents. According to Andri Boiko, founder and CEO of Garant In, an international citizenship advisory firm, Bahrain's offering is attractive for its affordability, flexibility, and ease of access. 'It offers low-stress, high-value living for expats ready to escape the status race,' Boiko explained to Business Standard. What Bahrain's Golden Visa offers According to Bahrain's Ministry of Interior – Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs, key features include: • 10-year renewable residency for you and your family • No employer sponsorship requirement—freedom to switch jobs or start a business • No minimum stay condition, making it ideal for digital nomads or frequent travellers • Lower cost of living compared to Dubai or Riyadh • Family-friendly terms, allowing sponsorship of spouse, children, and even parents without extra income or property conditions • Quick online application and tracking system 'The government genuinely wants you there,' said Boiko. 'You can apply online, track your status in real time, and get support without a struggle.' Who can apply The Bahrain Golden Visa is open to four main categories of applicants: • Employed professionals earning at least BHD 2,000 (approx. ₹4.4 lakh or $5,300) per month, with five consecutive years of residence in Bahrain • Retirees receiving a monthly pension of BHD 2,000 within Bahrain, or BHD 4,000 (approx. ₹8.8 lakh or $10,600) if applying from abroad • Property owners holding real estate in Bahrain worth BHD 200,000 or more (approx. ₹4.4 crore or $530,000) • Individuals with exceptional talent in fields like science, arts, entrepreneurship, or sports Dependents—spouse, children, and parents—can also be sponsored under the same visa. How it compares with UAE's Golden Visa 'While the UAE Golden Visa is more globally recognised, with pathways for professionals, creatives, scientists, and students, its eligibility thresholds are higher and the process more selective,' said Boiko. For instance, investors in the UAE often need to commit upwards of AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.53 crore), and cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are far more expensive to live in compared to Bahrain. 'From a lifestyle perspective, Bahrain offers a slower, more community-oriented environment—ideal for those prioritising work-life balance and affordability,' Boiko said. 'It's especially attractive to Gulf-based expats looking for a permanent base without the financial intensity of the UAE.' However, he pointed out that the UAE still has stronger infrastructure, global air connectivity, and deeper business ecosystems—particularly in fintech, real estate, and innovation. 'When one goes to Dubai, they go to highly improved infrastructure,' said Boiko. 'When we are talking about Bahrain or Qatar, things are different. On the other hand, it gives you more opportunity, because the country is growing.' Caveats for Indian applicants According to Boiko, while the Bahrain Golden Visa may appeal to Indian professionals, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals, there are a few conditions to keep in mind: 1. It does not lead to citizenship Bahrain's Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit, not a route to citizenship. Dual citizenship is not permitted in either Bahrain or India, so if you're looking for a second passport for global mobility or security, this is not the path. The same applies to the UAE. 2. You must maintain your investment or income If you qualify by property ownership, the minimum BHD 200,000 property must be retained. Selling the asset without meeting another eligibility criterion could result in cancellation of your visa. 3. Renewal is conditional The visa is valid for 10 years, but renewal depends on continued compliance with the original criteria—whether income, pension, or investment. Bahrain's property market is smaller and less liquid than Dubai's. If you're buying property to qualify, be aware that reselling or exiting the investment may take time.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Bahrain, UAE, Saudi residency visas compared: Which one offers better value?
Applicants now weigh Bahrain, UAE, and Saudi residency schemes for affordability, flexibility, and family benefits/Representative Image TL;DR: Bahrain 's 10-year Golden Residency is the most cost-effective long-term Gulf residency available in 2025. The UAE 's Golden Visa requires AED 2 million (≈USD 545,000) investment or comes via talent with nomination, with complex renewal criteria. Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency costs SAR 800,000 (~USD 213,000) for permanent residency or SAR 100,000/year (~USD 26,660), with no capital return. Bahrain offers broader eligibility, unrestricted employment, flexible travel, and lower living costs—with minimal fees and online processing. Background & Application Framework Bahrain Launched in 2022 under Bahrain Vision 2030, offering long-term residency to investors, skilled workers, retirees, and exceptional talent. Applicants classified as: Working professionals: 5 years residency with ≥ BHD 2,000/month ( USD 5,300). Retirees: BHD 2,000/month pension if resident, or BHD 4,000/month if abroad. Property owners: Bahraini real estate holdings ≥ BHD 200,000 (~USD 530,000). Exceptional talent: Includes successful entrepreneurs, researchers and scientists who have made significant contributions to their field, artists and creatives recognised for their exceptional works, innovators that are pioneers in technology, science or business, athletes who have achieved notable success in sports and other exceptional talents who have demonstrated extraordinary skills in some other areas. Immediate family: spouse, children, parents are included automatically. UAE Golden Visa introduced in 2019, valid for 5 or 10 years; multiple eligibility categories including investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, outstanding students, creatives. The UAE's Golden Visa is notably diverse in eligibility, targeting more than just investors. The program spans 10+ categories, including: Scientists and researchers endorsed by the Emirates Scientists Council, medical professionals and healthcare specialists, a priority after Covid-19, top-tier professionals in engineering, IT, and AI, creative talents in culture, art, and media recognised by relevant UAE authorities, outstanding students and graduates from the world's top universities and more. Investor route requires AED 2 million (~USD 545,000) in real estate or public funds. Other paths include AED 500,000 ventures or high-salary professionals . Processing time varies by emirate; often subject to extra approval steps; renewal contingent on preserving investment for at least three years. Saudi Arabia Premium Residency ('Green Card') launched in 2019 under Vision 2030. Permanent route: one-time SAR 800,000 (~USD 213,000). Annual option: SAR 100,000/year (~USD 26,660). Target Group: Executives, researchers, healthcare, and scientists Saudi also has a door for exceptional talent in arts, culture and sports. This requires prestigious government awards or recommendation from Ministry of Culture or Sports. Financial Outlay & Entry Thresholds Bahrain Minimum pathway: property ≥ USD 530,000 or income ≥ USD 5,300/month after resident history. Application + visa costs ≈ USD 808 total. UAE AED 2 million investment (~USD 545,000) for residency. Additional processing and renewal costs (e.g., AED 2,800–5,000 initial registration, medical tests, Emirati ID) depending on emirate and family size. Saudi Arabia Permanent residency: USD 213,000 upfront; annual path: USD 26,660/year. Residency Duration & Flexibility Bahrain Visa valid for 10 years and fully renewable. No employer tie: holders can work, switch jobs, or operate businesses freely; work permit optional and processed through LMRA within ~10 days. Travel flexibility: no continuous residency required. UAE 5- or 10-year visas; renewal depends on sustaining required investment . Golden Visa holders can live, work, study, and sponsor family without local sponsor. Travel: no minimum stay requirement, but investment must remain intact for a minimum period . Saudi Permanent Premium Residency: indefinite renewal; annual path: yearly renewals. Residents can work, own property and businesses, travel without sponsor. Family & Employment Rights Bahrain Full freedom to work or conduct business without restrictions. Family members (spouse, children, parents) covered under primary application. No requirement to sponsor each dependent separately. UAE Self-sponsorship allows family residency; visa allows broad access to education, business, banking. Saudi Premium Residency includes family sponsorship and full employment/business ownership rights. Cost of Living: An Expat View Bahrain Cost of living (housing, healthcare, schooling, utilities) is significantly lower than in UAE and Saudi. Rental options are plentiful across areas with differing price points, aided by relatively low demand compared to bigger Gulf hubs . UAE Zero personal and capital gains tax; corporate tax imposed only above AED 375,000/year (~USD 102,000) with 9% rate. Rental and schooling costs in Dubai/Abu Dhabi rank high, one of the most expensive for expatriates . Saudi No personal income tax. VAT is 15%, higher than Bahrain's 10% and UAE's 5% . Overall cost of essentials similar to Bahrain but business and property costs are elevated. Strategic Economic & Policy Alignment Bahrain Golden Residency forms a key part of Vision 2030: target $2.5 billion FDI and 20,000 jobs for nationals annually. Over 10,000 visas issued by end of 2024 across more than 100 nationalities. Elimination of kafala system since 2009 enables flexible employer switching. UAE Policy emphasizes sector diversification, talent acquisition, innovation, and immigration flexibility . Focus also includes creatives, healthcare, education, and strategic infrastructure for a post-oil economy . Saudi Premium Residency supports Vision 2030 as a vehicle for foreign capital, business creation, and job creation for Saudi citizens. Summary: Weighing Value Across the Gulf Each of the Gulf's long-term residency programs presents distinct advantages, shaped by national policies, investment thresholds, and lifestyle factors. Bahrain offers a relatively low entry point through property investment or income proof, combined with minimal fees and straightforward processing. Its flexibility in employment and business operations, alongside a lower overall cost of living, appeals to many professionals, exceptional talents and retirees. UAE's Golden Visa remains attractive for high-net-worth individuals and skilled professionals who value global connectivity, tax efficiency, and access to dynamic business hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi . The program's clear paths for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialised talent continue to make it a preferred choice for those prioritising business scalability and international networking. Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency provides a permanent residency option with a one-time fee, appealing to those seeking long-term security without periodic renewals. The Kingdom's rapid economic diversification and Vision 2030 projects offer significant opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors, particularly in emerging sectors Verdict Ultimately, the best residency program depends on individual priorities, whether that is cost-effectiveness, business potential, sector-specific opportunities, or lifestyle preferences. Bahrain, UAE, and Saudi Arabia each cater to different profiles of investors, professionals, and families. Prospective applicants are advised to assess their financial readiness, professional goals, and regional engagement plans before committing. As the Gulf economies continue to evolve, these residency options will likely keep adapting to attract a diverse pool of global talent and investment.
NDTV
7 days ago
- Business
- NDTV
Bahrain Is Offering 10-Year Golden Visa For Less Than Rs 69,000. What Is It And How To Apply
When it comes to long-term residency in the Gulf, Dubai's Golden Visa often takes center stage but there is another more accessible alternative that's gaining momentum: Bahrain's Golden Residency. Launched in 2022 as part of Bahrain's broader economic diversification strategy under Vision 2030, this visa offers long-term security, full work flexibility, and a family-friendly structure all at a fraction of the cost of its Gulf neighbours, as per reports. What Does Bahrain's Golden Residency Offer? Freedom To Work: One of the biggest advantages is job independence. Unlike most Gulf countries, where your residency is tied to your employer, Bahrain allows visa holders to work freely across sectors, start a business, or freelance without employer sponsorship. This work flexibility is a rare perk in the region. Cost Of Living: Another great thing about living in Bahrain is affordability. The cost of living is lower compared to UAE or Saudi Arabia but it still offers a high-standard of living. This makes it appealing for families who wish to settle long-term without the financial pressure seen in places like Dubai or Riyadh. Travel Flexibility: Residency status is not affected if you spend extended time outside the country, which is the case in other Gulf nations. You will require residents to return within a set timeframe to maintain their visa. Family Benefits: The Golden Residency also allows spouses, parents, and children can be sponsored easily. Renewals do not depend on continued employment or property holdings once the visa is secured. Who Is Eligible? Bahrain has defined foure eligibility categories, including: Skilled Professionals: People who have worked in Bahrain for at least five years with a staple monthly income of Bharaini Dhar (BHD) 2,000 (approximately Rs 4,55,360). Property Owners: Anyone who owns property in Bahrain valued at BHD 200,000 (around Rs 4,55,36,016) or more can apply. Retirees: Residents with a monthly pension of BHD 2,000 qualify. Non-resident retirees can also apply, provided they have a pension income of at least BHD 4,000 (Rs 9,10,720). Exceptional Talent: Individuals with outstanding contributions in science, art, sports, or entrepreneurship, and who have been recognized by the Bahraini government, may be eligible. How Can You Apply? Here's a step by step guide on how you can apply for Bahrain's Golden Residency: Check eligibility on Bahrain's official Golden Residency portal. Collect the required documents, including a copy of the passport valid for more than 6 months, ID, financial proof and recognition certificates if applicable. Create an eKey account to access digital government services. Submit your application online and the initial fee for this would be BHD 5 (Rs 1,138 approximately). You will have to wait for 5-10 working days. Pay the visa fee of BHD 300 (Rs 68,304 approximately) once its approved. Once the visa is approved, you will receive the 10-year residency visa with the right to sponsor family. You can add family members in the same application. You can then apply for a work permit via LMRA if you are someone pursuing formal employment. Whether you're a mid-career professional, an investor, or a retiree, Bahrain may just offer the most underrated path to a stable, family-friendly life in the Gulf - without the premium price tag.
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First Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- First Post
Looking to settle in the Gulf? Why Bahrain's new Golden Residency Visa could be a wise bet
Bahrain has unveiled a Golden Residency Visa as part of the Vision 2030 plan. The new 10-year residency visa offers a low-cost and more flexible alternative to the UAE and Saudi visas, targeting employed professionals, retirees, property owners, and talent-based applicants. Here's how much it will cost read more Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa, introduced as part of the country's Vision 2030 plan, is designed to attract long-term residents, global talent, and investors. File image/Reuters If you're eyeing long-term stability in the Gulf without the hefty price tag, Bahrain's new Golden Residency Visa might just be your answer. As countries across the Gulf ramp up their efforts to draw in global talent and investment, Bahrain is stepping into the spotlight with a Golden Visa programme that is not only low in cost but also a more flexible alternative to the widely known UAE Golden Visa and Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Here's a closer look at how the programme works, and whether it's the right fit for you What is Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa? Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa, introduced as part of the country's Vision 2030 plan, is designed to attract long-term residents, global talent, and investors. The programme allows eligible individuals to live and work in Bahrain for 10 years, with the option to renew. As reported by The Times of India, the visa comes with a host of benefits. Holders are not tied to a single employer, meaning they can change jobs or even start their own businesses without losing their residency status. Bahrain's relatively lower cost of living compared to regional neighbours like Dubai or Riyadh makes it an appealing choice for families, retirees, and professionals looking for a more affordable base in the Gulf. File image/Reuters Unlike many Gulf schemes, continuous stay in the country is not mandatory to maintain the visa, which is a major plus for digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travellers. Another advantage is Bahrain's relatively lower cost of living compared to regional neighbours like Dubai or Riyadh. This makes it an appealing choice for families, retirees, and professionals looking for a more affordable base in the Gulf. The visa also makes it easy to bring your family along. Spouses, children, and even parents can be sponsored under the Golden Residency without the need to meet additional income or property requirements Who is eligible? According to the Government of Bahrain, the Golden Residency Visa is open to individuals from four primary categories. Employed professionals are eligible if they've been residing in Bahrain and earning a minimum monthly salary of BHD 2,000 (roughly Rs 4.4 lakh or USD 5,300) for at least five consecutive years. This category targets high-income expatriates already living and working in the country. Retirees can also apply, provided they receive a monthly pension of at least BHD 2,000. If applying from outside Bahrain, the pension requirement doubles to BHD 4,000 (approximately Rs 8.8 lakh or USD 10,600), as per official guidelines. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Property owners are eligible if they hold real estate in Bahrain worth BHD 200,000 or more, equivalent to about Rs 4.4 crore or USD 530,000. This option appeals particularly to investors looking to establish a long-term base in the country. Finally, talent-based applicants—those who have demonstrated exceptional skill or achievements in fields like science, arts, sports, or entrepreneurship—are also encouraged to apply. Dependents, including spouse, children, and parents, can also be sponsored under the same residency. How to apply? Applying for Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa is a relatively simple, fully online process designed for ease and accessibility. Here's how it works: 1. Check your eligibility Begin by confirming that you meet the criteria under one of the four main categories: skilled professionals, property owners, retirees, or individuals with exceptional talent. Bahrain's official Golden Residency portal provides a clear breakdown of what each category requires. 2. Gather the required documents Depending on your chosen category, you'll need to prepare and upload relevant documentation. This typically includes: A valid passport (with at least six months' validity) Proof of active health insurance Financial records such as bank statements, salary slips, pension statements, or property deeds Employment certificates or professional achievements (especially for the talent-based category) 3. Create an eKey account To use Bahrain's eGovernment services, you'll need to register for an eKey account. This digital ID is necessary to access and complete the visa application online. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 4. Submit your application online Once your documents are ready, you can submit the application via Bahrain's official Golden Residency portal. The application fee is just BHD 5 (about USD 13 or Rs 1,100), making it one of the most affordable long-term visa schemes in the region. 5. Wait for processing After submission, most applications are reviewed within 5 to 10 working days. Applicants under the skilled professional, retiree, or property owner categories usually receive quicker feedback, while those applying via the talent route may face slightly longer processing times due to additional verification. 6. Pay the visa issuance fee Once approved, you'll be required to pay BHD 300 (approximately Rs 66,000 or USD 795) for the visa issuance. This grants you 10 years of renewable residency, with the ability to sponsor family members as well. With input from agencies
Arab Times
16-07-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
What You Should Know About Bahrain's Golden Visa—Flexible, Affordable, Powerful
MANAMA, July 16: Bahrain's Golden Residency Visa is emerging as a powerful alternative to Gulf-based long-term residency programs, offering greater freedom, lower costs, and access to full residency rights for professionals, investors, retirees, and high achievers from around the world. Launched as part of Bahrain's Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy, the program offers a renewable 10-year residency permit, enabling foreign nationals to reside, work, invest, and sponsor family members without requiring employer-based sponsorship. Eligibility Categories Bahrain's Golden Visa targets five main applicant groups: Employees: Individuals who have lived in Bahrain for at least five years and earn a minimum of BHD 2,000 (USD 5,300) per month. Property Owners: Investors who own real estate worth BHD 200,000 (USD 530,000) or more. Retirees: Bahrain residents with 15+ years of residence and pensions of at least BHD 2,000/month are eligible; for non-resident retirees, the threshold is BHD 4,000/month. Talented Individuals: Artists, scientists, athletes, and entrepreneurs recognized for significant achievements may be nominated by a Bahraini government body. Key Benefits Golden Residency holders enjoy: Full residency rights including the ability to live, work, or invest in Bahrain. No employer sponsorship required, making it easier to change jobs or operate a business. Family sponsorship, including spouses, children, and even parents. No minimum stay requirement, though 90 days per year is advised to maintain active status. Access to national ID (CPR), banking, education, and healthcare services. Eligibility to apply for a work permit through Bahrain's LMRA for a nominal additional fee Application Process and Costs Applications can be submitted through the official Golden Residency portal or Bahrain's Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) platform. Initial application fee: BHD 5 Visa issuance fee: BHD 300 LMRA work permit fee (if required): BHD 172 + BHD 5 monthly admin fee Processing time: Typically 5 working days for salaried and property applicants; up to 10 for talent-based cases Private agents suggest total costs, including medical, legal, and insurance documents, range between BHD 2,000–3,000, depending on the applicant's profile. International observers note that Bahrain's visa is more cost-effective and flexible than similar schemes in the UAE or Qatar, especially for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, or retirees seeking a Gulf base without the high overhead. 'This is one of the few residency programs in the region where applicants can work, invest, and live freely without being locked to a sponsor,' said a Gulf migration advisor. 'Bahrain is positioning itself as a hub for talent and innovation. The government has encouraged eligible individuals to explore the program as a long-term opportunity to contribute to Bahrain's economic development while enjoying secure residency in one of the Gulf's most welcoming environments.
