Bahrain Family Visa and Visa Extension: A Complete Guide for 2025

Bahrain, the island nation in the Arabian Gulf, continues to be a top destination for expatriates due to its thriving economy, high standard of living, and welcoming multicultural environment. Whether you’re a foreign professional working in Bahrain or planning to reunite with your loved ones, understanding the process of obtaining a Bahrain Family Visa and extending your stay through a Bahrain Visa Extension is essential.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these two key aspects of Bahraini immigration.

What is a Bahrain Family Visa?

The Bahrain Family Visa—also referred to as the Dependent Visa—allows expatriates legally residing in Bahrain to sponsor their immediate family members to live with them. These family members can include:

• Spouse (husband or wife)
  
  

• Children under the age of 24 (sometimes up to 18 or 21 depending on the type of visa and sponsor's nationality)
  
  

• Parents (in some cases, though additional approval is needed)
  
  

The visa is typically valid for 1 or 2 years, depending on the sponsor’s residence permit, and is renewable.

Who Can Apply for a Family Visa?

To be eligible to sponsor family members, the primary visa holder (sponsor) must:

• Hold a valid residence permit (Iqama) in Bahrain.
  
  

• Earn a minimum monthly salary (typically BHD 400 or more, but this may vary by profession or family size).
  
  

• Have adequate accommodation in Bahrain.
  
  

• Provide valid health insurance for dependents.
  
  

Required Documents

Here’s a list of documents typically required to apply for a Bahrain Family Visa:

1. Passport copies of the sponsor and dependents.
   
   

2. Passport-size photos of all family members.
   
   

3. Marriage certificate (attested) for sponsoring a spouse.
   
   

4. Birth certificates (attested) for sponsoring children.
   
   

5. Proof of income (e.g., salary certificate or labor contract).
   
   

6. Tenancy contract or proof of residence.
   
   

7. Copy of the sponsor’s CPR (Central Population Registry) card.
   
   

8. Health insurance coverage for the dependent(s).
   
   

9. Medical fitness certificate (for adult dependents if required).
   
   

All foreign documents must be translated into Arabic or English and attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and Bahrain’s Embassy in the country of origin.

Application Process

The Bahrain Family Visa can be applied for online or through an authorized agent or PRO (Public Relations Officer). Here's a simplified step-by-step overview:

1. Prepare all necessary documents as listed above.
   
   

2. Submit the application via the National Portalor through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) if the sponsor is a private sector employee.
   
   

3. Pay the visa fee, which typically ranges from BHD 90–120 depending on the visa duration.
   
   

4. Once the visa is approved, the family member can travel to Bahrain and receive the residence permit stamp upon arrival or at the immigration office.
   
   

Processing time typically ranges from 5 to 10 working days, but delays can occur depending on case complexity or incomplete documentation.

Bahrain Visa Extension

Whether you're on a visit visa, family visa, or any temporary residency, you may find yourself needing an extension. Here’s how the process works for extending your stay in Bahrain.

Types of Visas That Can Be Extended:

• Tourist Visa
  
  

• Visit Visa
  
  

• Family Visa (Dependent Visa)
  
  

• Business Visa
  
  

Most of these visas can be extended once or twice depending on the original visa type and duration.

How to Extend a Visa in Bahrain

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Select the “Visa Services” section.
   
   

2. Choose “Extend Visa” from the options.
   
   

3. Enter the passport number and current visa reference number.
   
   

4. Pay the required extension fee via the online payment gateway.
   
   

The visa extension is typically granted for 1 to 3 months. The government fee for extension varies by visa type but usually starts at BHD 25.

Note: Overstaying without an extension results in fines—usually BHD 25 per day—and may affect future visa approvals.

Important Points to Remember

• Always apply for the extension before your current visa expires.
  
  

• Keep a copy of your visa extension confirmation for your records.
  
  

• In some cases, especially with family visas, a sponsor must initiate the extension.
  
  

• Long-term extensions (for more than 6 months) may require updated documentation such as a new tenancy contract or salary slip.
  
  

Common Issues and Tips

• Incomplete Documents: One of the most common reasons for visa rejection. Double-check all documents and make sure they’re properly attested.
  
  

• Salary Mismatch: Make sure your salary meets the current minimum threshold required for sponsoring dependents.
  
  

• Delays: Use a trusted PRO or legal service if you need assistance with the process, especially for complicated cases (e.g., sponsoring elderly parents).
  
  

• Health Insurance: It is mandatory for dependents. Ensure the coverage remains valid for the entire visa duration.
  
  

Conclusion

Obtaining a Bahrain Family Visa or applying for a visa extension doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper documentation, attention to details, and timely application, the process is fairly straightforward.

Bahrain’s family-friendly policies and efficient immigration system have made it one of the most expatriate-friendly destinations in the Gulf. Whether you're bringing your loved ones to join you or extending their stay, following the right procedures ensures a smooth and stress-free experience.

For more help or to apply online, visit Bahrain’s official eGovernment