How to get Bahrain residence in 2025 — permits, work & family renewals

Living in Bahrain long-term requires a residence permit. In 2025, foreigners can apply through employment sponsorship, family sponsorship, study, investment, or the Golden Residency Visa program. All applications are processed through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) and the Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA). This guide explains the main routes, key terms, step-by-step process, documents, renewals, and common mistakes to avoid.

Key terms (Bahrain-specific)

• LMRA: Labour Market Regulatory Authority — manages work permits and employment-linked residence.
• NPRA: Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs — issues residence cards and manages renewals.
• CPR (Central Population Registry) card: national ID for residents once the permit is issued.
• Sponsor: an employer, family member, or institution responsible for a foreign resident.
• Golden Residency Visa: a 10-year renewable residence for investors, property owners, retirees, and talents.
• Work permit: authorization from LMRA that doubles as a residence permit.

Main residence routes in 2025

Step-by-step process (2025)

1. Secure sponsorship: employer, family, or institution must agree to sponsor you.
2. Apply via LMRA/NPRA: sponsor files an application online with all required documents.
3. Medical fitness: undergo medical tests at approved centers.
4. Approval & fee payment: once approved, pay government fees online or via sponsor.
5. Collect CPR card: residence card issued after biometrics; carry it at all times.
6. Renew on time: apply 1–2 months before expiry to avoid penalties.

Documents checklist (2025)

• Valid passport with 6+ months remaining
• Entry visa (if applying from abroad)
• Employment contract or family certificates
• Income proof for family sponsorship
• Medical fitness certificate
• Proof of enrollment (student route)
• Property or investment documents (investor route)
• Recent passport-sized photos

Costs & realistic timelines

Government fees: BHD 60–200 depending on category. Processing: 2–6 weeks after medical clearance. Renewals typically take less than 3 weeks if documents are complete.

Renewals and long-term stay

Employment and family permits are usually valid for 1–2 years. The Golden Residency Visa offers 10-year renewable status. Continuous residence is required for long-term stability; overstays incur penalties and risk of cancellation.

What changed in 2025

• Expansion of the Golden Residency Visa to include more professional categories.
• Higher income thresholds for family sponsorship.
• Digital-first filing through LMRA online system, reducing in-person visits.

Common mistakes

• Arriving on a tourist visa and assuming conversion is possible.
• Not completing the medical test on time.
• Submitting documents without proper attestation or translation.
• Failing to meet income requirements for family sponsorship.
• Letting residence lapse — overstays result in fines and cancellation.

FAQ

Can I work in Bahrain without a residence permit?
No, employment requires an LMRA-issued work permit and residence status.

How long is a Bahrain residence permit valid?
Typically 1–2 years, renewable; Golden Residency Visa is valid for 10 years.

Can my family join me?
Yes, with proof of income and valid family documents.

What is the Golden Residency Visa?
A 10-year renewable residence for investors, property owners, retirees, and highly skilled professionals.

How do I renew?
Submit documents via LMRA online portal 1–2 months before expiry.

Expert opinion

“In 2025, the strongest Bahrain residence applications show valid sponsorship, clean medical records, and complete attested documents. Delays usually stem from missing attestations or income proof.” — VelesClub Int. Immigration Team

Next steps

Planning residence in Bahrain in 2025? Prepare documents early and coordinate with your sponsor to avoid delays. Explore our platform and check the Residency & Citizenship hub for structured guides and expert-reviewed templates.