Bahrain — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
All persons who wish to enter Bahrain need a visa except citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). Visas are relatively easy to obtain on arrival if holding sufficient funds, a passport valid for at least six months, and tickets or documentation for return or onward travel. 14 day business or tourist visas incur a fee of BD 5 on arrival. eVisas must be used within 30 days of approval and are valid for a single entry. Visas are extendable.
Americans
US citizens require a passport and a visa or electronic visa to enter Bahrain. Single entry Electronic Visas may be obtained on the Internet ( www.evisa.gov.bh) before travel, or a 14-day tourist or business visa can be obtained on arrival.
UK Nationals
British nationals require a passport and an eVisa, obtainable via the Internet ( www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a multiple-entry three-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival (maximum stay four weeks per visit).
Canadians
Canadian citizens require a passport and an eVisa, obtainable via the Internet ( www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a 14-day tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival.
Australians
Australians need a passport and an eVisa, obtainable via the Internet ( www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a 14-day tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival.
South Africans
South Africans need a visa and a passport to visit Bahrain. Those visiting on business may obtain a visa on arrival, subject to immigration evaluation at the airport. Tourists should apply for a visa in advance of arrival, and require a letter of recommendation.
Irish Nationals
Irish nationals need a passport and an eVisa, obtainable via the Internet ( www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a three-month tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival.
New Zealanders
New Zealanders require a passport and an eVisa, obtainable via the Internet ( www.evisa.gov.bh) prior to their visit, or a 14-day tourist or business visa obtainable on arrival.
Healthcare
No vaccinations are required for visitors to Bahrain, but a hepatitis A vaccination is recommended. Medical facilities are good in the main cities, but health insurance is recommended because visitors must pay for treatment. There are many well-stocked pharmacies in the country. Water is deemed clean and safe by the authorities, but visitors usually prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available.
Safety
* February 2011 has seen mass pro-democracy protests in the capital Manama; given the volatility of the politcal situation here and in neighboring states, we advise against all non-essential travel to Bahrain at this time. Although the crime rate in Bahrain is relatively low, visitors should be fully aware that along with other states in the Gulf region, the country is rated as high risk for indiscriminate terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda on Western interests. Visitors are advised to be vigilant at all times particularly in public places.
