Latest news with #GoldenResidency
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.
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.
India.com
15-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Move Over UAE: Why Bahrain's Golden Residency Is The New Favourite For Indians – Benefits, Eligibility & How To Apply
New Delhi: More Indians are turning their eyes toward Bahrain, not Dubai, for long-term residency in the Gulf. While the buzz still hovers over Dubai's skyline and the UAE's glitzy Golden Visa, Manama is drawing a different kind of crowd – those who want fewer restrictions, lower costs and simpler rules. Professionals. Entrepreneurs. Retirees. Some already based in the Gulf. Others watching from cities like Bengaluru and Pune. They are looking at Bahrain's 10-year Golden Residency with new eyes. It is not wrapped in glamour. But it is built for staying. Built for living. The visa came into being in 2022, stitched into Bahrain's long-term economic plan, Vision 2030. The goal was stability. A residency path that welcomes not only investors, but thinkers, scientists, educators and creative talent. One that lets families breathe a little easier. The money ask? Modest, especially by Gulf standards. A monthly income of BHD 2,000 (Rs 4.6 lakh) if you have lived in Bahrain for five years. A property worth BHD 200,000 (Rs 4.6 crore) if you are an owner. Retirees need to show an income of BHD 4,000 (Rs 9.1 lakh). There is also space for highly skilled people if Bahrain's ministries think you have got something valuable to offer. For many Indians working in the Gulf, the fine print is what makes the difference. Bahrain's visa does not get cancelled if you stay abroad for too long. There is no rush to buy property. You do not lose the visa if you switch jobs or decide to take a break. The entire family, parents, spouse and children, can be brought in under the same umbrella. Cost of living? Calmer than Dubai. Rent is lower. Schools and hospitals do not burn through your wallet. Daily life feels less like a hustle, more like home. There are no city-wide status races. Only quiet ambition. Applying is simple, too. No agents. No queues. Just the official NPRA portal. The steps are straightforward: Step one: Match the criteria. Income, property, years in Bahrain – any one of those. Step two: Collect your papers. A passport, some bank statements, a medical test and ID if you are already a resident. Step three: Fill the form on Choose the Golden Residency option. Step four: Pay the fee. It varies by category. Step five: Wait. If they need more info, they will email you. Step six: Once cleared, you get your digital visa and residence permit. You are now free to sponsor your family. There is no shouting match between Bahrain and the UAE. But those who have done their homework are beginning to move. Many quietly. Some with families. Others with startups in their briefcase. The Gulf dream is not one-size-fits-all anymore. And for Indians who value flexibility over flash, Bahrain might just be the quieter and smarter door to walk through.
News18
15-07-2025
- Business
- News18
Why Bahrain's 10-Year Golden Visa Is The Most Accessible Gulf Residency Option
Last Updated: Unlike its wealthier neighbours that demand sizable investments or sky-high incomes, Bahrain's visa approach offers a decade of residency with minimal barriers. While the UAE's glitzy Golden Visa and Saudi Arabia's high-profile Premium Residency often steal the spotlight, Bahrain has been quietly gaining ground with a more understated yet highly practical offering. Launched in 2022 under the country's Vision 2030 economic transformation plan, Bahrain's Golden Residency is emerging as the Gulf's most accessible, flexible, and cost-effective long-term visa, especially for professionals, retirees, and mid-tier investors. What Sets Bahrain Apart? True Work Freedom- One of the most distinctive advantages of Bahrain's Golden Residency is its uncoupling from employer sponsorship. Holders can work for any company, freelance, or run their own business – a major shift in a region where work visas are typically tethered to job contracts and sponsorships. Lower Cost of Living- Bahrain offers a significantly more affordable lifestyle compared to the likes of Dubai or Riyadh. From property prices to schooling, healthcare, and daily expenses, the cost of living is manageable without sacrificing quality. This makes it especially appealing to families and early-career professionals. No Re-Entry Restrictions- Unlike some Gulf nations that impose time limits on how long residents can stay abroad, Bahrain allows you to come and go without jeopardising your status. This is a major draw for remote workers, frequent travellers, or retirees with international ties. Family-Friendly by Design- The visa allows straightforward sponsorship of spouses, children, and even parents, with no mandatory property or employment renewals once approved. For those planning to settle long-term, the process is simple, sustainable, and secure. How To Apply? 1. Confirm Eligibility Start by checking if you qualify under one of the four designated categories—Skilled Professional, Property Owner, Retiree, or Individual with Exceptional Talent. Bahrain's official Golden Residency portal outlines all eligibility criteria in detail. 2. Prepare Your Documentation Once you've identified your path, collect the necessary paperwork. This may include: 3. Set Up an eKey Account To access Bahrain's digital government services, you'll need to create an eKey account. This login ensures a seamless online application experience. 4. Submit Your Application Apply through the official online portal. The initial application fee is BHD 5 (approximately USD 13), making it one of the most affordable entry points in the region. 5. Wait for Processing Applications are typically reviewed and processed within 5 to 10 working days. Skilled professionals, retirees, and property owners often receive faster responses. The 'talent" category may take a little longer due to additional verification steps. 6. Pay the Visa Fee Upon approval, a BHD 300 visa issuance fee (around USD 795) must be paid to secure the Golden Residency. 7. Receive Your 10-Year Residency Once payment is confirmed, you'll be granted a 10-year residency visa, which also includes the right to sponsor family members. 8. Sponsor Your Family Easily extend your residency to include spouse, children, and parents under a unified application structure. 9. Optional: Apply for a Work Permit While the Golden Residency offers the right to live and freelance, those wishing to take up formal employment may require a separate work permit, which can be obtained through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). Why Expats, Especially Indians, Are Looking to Bahrain On social media platforms, Bahrain's visa is increasingly praised for being straightforward, affordable, and flexible. Indian professionals and retirees, in particular, are finding it a preferable alternative to the complex and expensive processes in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The kingdom's inclusive cultural environment, well-rated education and healthcare systems, and liberal social norms make it ideal for families who value both tradition and openness. Strategically located, Bahrain offers easy access to the rest of the Gulf, including quick connections to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. tags : bahrain lifestyle travel view comments Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: July 14, 2025, 17:43 IST News lifestyle » travel Why Bahrain's 10-Year Golden Visa Is The Most Accessible Gulf Residency Option Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Forget the UAE Golden Visa: Bahrain's residency offers more freedom and lower costs
Bahrain is quietly emerging as the Gulf's most affordable and flexible destination for long-term residency, offering expats and investors an easier path than the UAE or Saudi Arabia/Representative Image TL;DR: Bahrain 's 10-year Golden Residency Visa is emerging as a cost-effective and flexible alternative to the UAE 's Golden Visa and Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency. With easier eligibility, lower financial thresholds, and a straightforward application process, Bahrain is fast becoming the Gulf's hidden residency gem. Here's why Indians and expats alike are increasingly choosing Bahrain over pricier, more restrictive Gulf residency options and how to apply. Why Bahrain's Residency is the Gulf's Best-Kept Secret The glitter of UAE's Golden Visa and the prestige of Saudi Arabia's Premium Residency have dominated headlines, but Bahrain's Golden Residency is quietly gaining serious traction. Introduced 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. Where the UAE demands steep investments or salaries, and Saudi Arabia places hefty price tags on its premium residency, Bahrain's requirements are refreshingly accessible. Whether you're a mid-level professional, a property investor, or a retiree, Bahrain's visa opens a door to a stable life in the Gulf without draining your bank account. What Makes Bahrain's Golden Residency Better? The first advantage is the freedom to work without employer many Gulf countries where your residency is tied to a job contract or a specific employer, Bahrain's Golden Residency grants you the liberty to work for any employer, start your own business, or freelance as you please. This work flexibility is a rare perk in the region. Secondly, Bahrain's cost of living is notably lower compared to the UAE or Saudi Arabia. From housing to education, healthcare, and everyday expenses, Bahrain offers a more affordable lifestyle while still providing a high standard of living. This makes it particularly appealing for families who wish to settle long-term without the financial pressure seen in places like Dubai or Riyadh. Additionally, Bahrain imposes no restrictions on how long you can stay abroad without losing your residency. In contrast, other countries in the Gulf often require residents to return within a certain time frame or risk forfeiting their residency status. Finally, the Golden Residency also extends comprehensive family benefits. Spouses, parents, and children can be sponsored easily, and renewals do not depend on continued employment or property holdings once the visa is secured. Who Can Apply? Bahrain has defined four clear eligibility categories: Skilled Professionals : You must have worked in Bahrain for at least five years with a stable monthly income of BHD 2,000 (approximately USD 5,300). This criterion ensures that the applicant has established roots and a sustainable career within the kingdom. Property Investors : If you own property in Bahrain valued at BHD 200,000 (about USD 530,000) or more, you qualify for the Golden Residency. Retirees : For retirees already residing in Bahrain, a pension income of BHD 2,000 per month qualifies them for the residency. Non-resident retirees can also apply if they earn BHD 4,000 monthly from pensions. Exceptional Talent : This includes individuals in fields such as science, sports, arts, and entrepreneurship who have been recognised by the Bahraini government for their contributions or achievements. This clear categorisation ensures that applicants from diverse backgrounds and not just the ultra-rich have pathways to long-term residency. Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Bahrain's Golden Residency Check Your Eligibility : Confirm you meet the criteria in one of the four categories. This can be done by reviewing Bahrain's official Golden Residency portal. Prepare Your Documents : Depending on your eligibility path, gather necessary documents such as: Valid passport with at least six months' validity Health insurance coverage Proof of income or property ownership Bank statements Employment certificates or pension statements Awards or official letters for talented individuals Create an eKey Account : Bahrain's digital services require an eKey registration for a seamless application process. Apply Online : Submit your application via the official government portal. The application fee is a modest BHD 5 (around USD 13). Processing Time : Applications are processed within 5 to 10 working days depending on your eligibility category. Skilled workers, retirees, and property investors can expect faster turnaround, while the talented category may take slightly longer due to verification processes. Visa Issuance Fee : Upon approval, applicants pay a BHD 300 fee (around USD 795) to obtain their Golden Residency permit. Receive Your 10-Year Residency : Once approved and paid, you'll receive the 10-year residency, including the right to sponsor your family members. Sponsor Dependents : Family sponsorship is straightforward, allowing for spouses, children, and parents to be included under the same residency umbrella. Work Permit (Optional) : While the residency itself grants many rights, individuals who wish to work formally may need to apply for a separate work permit through Bahrain's Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). All steps, fees, and official requirements are clearly outlined on Bahrain's official Golden Residency portal : Why Expats, Especially Indians, Are Choosing Bahrain A growing number of Indian expatriates are viewing Bahrain's Golden Residency as the smarter, less costly alternative to similar schemes in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like I Tried the $0.87 Generic Viagra and Here's What Happened! fridayplans Learn More Undo On online forums like Reddit's r/Bahrain, users frequently mention the affordability and lack of red tape in Bahrain's residency process compared to the UAE's high income and investment thresholds. Beyond cost, there's the allure of a more relaxed and culturally diverse society. Bahrain's education, healthcare, and multicultural fabric make it an appealing environment for families looking for stability without the hyper-competitiveness of Dubai or the strict social rules of Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, Bahrain's location within the GCC makes it a strategic hub, providing easy access to neighbouring Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE all within a short flight or drive. Bahrain's Golden Residency and Vision 2030 This residency initiative is a key part of Bahrain Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy away from oil dependency by attracting skilled professionals, investors, and innovators. The Golden Residency aims to make Bahrain not just a financial hub but also a magnet for global talent, which aligns with broader regional competition for foreign expertise. Over 10,000 Golden Residencies have already been issued, according to official figures. This success positions Bahrain as a viable, less costly alternative for those who want the Gulf lifestyle without the associated financial strain. Verdict: For anyone looking to settle in the Gulf, whether as a professional, retiree, or investor, Bahrain's Golden Residency presents a golden opportunity. It's flexible, affordable, family-friendly, and refreshingly straightforward in both its process and maintenance. If the soaring costs of the UAE or the rigid social norms of Saudi Arabia are deterrents, Bahrain offers a balanced middle path, a stable, welcoming, and economically sensible choice for long-term residency in the Gulf.
