Exploring Bahrain: Travel Options For Americans

Americans can travel to Bahrain, but they need to apply for a visa before entering the country. US citizens can apply for a Visit eVisa online through the Bahraini government. This visa allows US citizens to visit Bahrain for up to two weeks. The visa is valid for 90 days and costs $153.99. Alternatively, US citizens can apply for a regular tourist visa through the Bahraini embassy in Washington, DC. There are currently no COVID-19 requirements, such as quarantine or health testing, to enter Bahrain. However, it is recommended to check local government advice before booking any travel.

US citizens need a Bahrain eVisa to enter the country

US citizens wishing to travel to Bahrain need to obtain a Bahrain eVisa to enter the country. The Government of Bahrain introduced the eVisa in 2016 to facilitate the application process and enable American passport holders to obtain a valid travel permit. The eVisa can be requested online from the comfort of one's home without the need for an appointment at an embassy or consulate.

There are several types of Bahrain eVisa options available to US applicants to suit their travel needs, including the duration of stay and the number of entries. The main options include a single-entry visit eVisa for 14 days or 3 months, and a multiple-entry visit eVisa for 1 month or 30 days (GCC). The single-entry visit eVisa allows US citizens to enter Bahrain and stay for up to 2 weeks or 3 months, respectively, while the multiple-entry options grant multiple entries for 30 days per visit. The GCC Visit Visa is specifically for US citizens currently based in any of the GCC states, allowing them multiple entries to Bahrain for stays of up to one month.

To apply for the Bahrain eVisa, US citizens must meet certain requirements. They must possess an American passport valid for the duration of their stay in Bahrain or the validity period of the eVisa, whichever is longer. Additionally, they need to provide a digital photograph of the passport's biographical page, a valid bank card to pay the processing fee, and proof of onward travel such as a return air ticket. It is recommended to initiate the application process well in advance, as the processing time can take up to 8 business days.

The application process for the Bahrain eVisa is straightforward and can be completed through an online questionnaire. Along with personal information, US applicants will be required to provide passport details, including the passport expiry date. They will also need to upload necessary documentation, such as the passport's biographical page, and confirm their travel itinerary. It is crucial to ensure that the information provided is accurate and matches the US passport to avoid delays or rejection.

In addition to the eVisa, US citizens should be aware of other entry requirements and recommendations for Bahrain. A recent photo, a letter explaining the purpose of the visit, a trip itinerary, and a financial statement proving sufficient funds for the trip may be requested. Bahrain also has COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations, such as frequent hand washing and social distancing. It is important to check the latest updates before travelling.

The eVisa can be obtained online

Travelling to Bahrain from the USA

US citizens are required to have a visa to enter Bahrain. The good news is that the process can be completed online, and there are several types of eVisas available for Americans, depending on the purpose and length of their visit.

The eVisa Application Process

The eVisa application form can be accessed via the official website of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Applicants will need to provide personal information, including their name, date of birth, gender, passport information, occupation, and current city. In addition, they will need to upload the following documents:

• A copy of their passport
• An air ticket copy
• A copy of their hotel booking confirmation
• Bank statements
• A GCC Residency Certificate (for GCC candidates only)

The application process typically takes 15-20 minutes to complete.

Types of eVisa Available for US Citizens

There are several types of eVisas available for US citizens, depending on the length of their stay and the number of entries they require:

• Single-entry visit eVisa for 14 days: Valid for 90 days to enter Bahrain and grants a single entry for a 2-week stay.
• Single-entry visit eVisa for 3 months: Valid for 90 days to enter Bahrain and grants a single entry for a 3-month stay.
• Multiple-entry visit eVisa for 1 month: Valid for 90 days and grants multiple entries to Bahrain for 30-day stays per visit.
• Multiple-entry visit eVisa for 30 days (GCC): US citizens based in GCC states can opt for this visa, which grants multiple entries to Bahrain for stays of up to 1 month.

EVisa Requirements for US Citizens

To be eligible for a Bahrain eVisa, US citizens must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a valid American passport that will remain valid for the duration of their stay in Bahrain or the validity period of the eVisa, whichever is longer.
• Provide a digital photograph of the biographical page of their passport.
• Have a valid bank card to pay the Bahrain eVisa processing fee.
• Provide proof of onward travel, such as a return air ticket.

It is also recommended that applicants provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation confirmation, and proof of sufficient funds, such as a recent bank statement.

Processing Time and Cost

The processing time for a Bahrain eVisa typically takes 5 to 8 business days, although expedited processing options are available for an additional fee. The cost of the eVisa varies depending on the type of visa, the applicant's nationality, and the processing speed selected.

Benefits of the eVisa

The Bahrain eVisa offers several advantages for American citizens:

• A simplified application process that can be completed online from anywhere in the world.
• A cost-effective option compared to traditional visa applications.
• Fast processing times, ensuring a swift response to applications.
• The ability to save time at Bahrain International Airport by joining the queues exclusive to eVisa holders.

In conclusion, the Bahrain eVisa is a convenient and efficient option for American citizens wishing to travel to Bahrain. By applying online, US citizens can obtain the necessary visa to enter Bahrain for tourism or business purposes, saving time and avoiding the hassle of paper applications.

The eVisa is valid for 90 days after arrival

Americans can travel to Bahrain with an eVisa, which was introduced by the Bahraini government in 2016 to make it easier for US passport holders to obtain a valid travel permit. The eVisa can be requested from the comfort of one's home without the need for an appointment at an embassy or consulate.

The eVisa is available through an online form and offers several options to suit different travel needs, such as the length of stay or number of entries. The main types of eVisa available for Americans are:

• Single-entry visit eVisa for 14 days, valid for 90 days to enter Bahrain and grants a 2-week stay.
• Single-entry visit eVisa for 3 months, valid for 90 days to enter Bahrain and grants a stay of up to 3 months.
• Multiple-entry visit eVisa for 1 month, valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries to Bahrain for up to 30 days per visit.
• Multiple-entry visit eVisa for 30 days (GCC), which is for US citizens based in GCC states and grants multiple entries for stays of up to 1 month.

The eVisa can be used for tourism or business purposes. If US citizens need to stay longer or are interested in relocating to Bahrain, they must schedule an appointment at the Bahraini Embassy in Washington, DC, or visit consular offices in San Diego or New York City.

• Standard processing takes 7 days and costs $153.99.
• Rush processing takes 5 days and costs $179.99.
• Super rush processing takes 4 days and costs $226.99.

To apply for the eVisa, US citizens need to fill out an online questionnaire, which usually takes 15-20 minutes. Personal information and passport details are required, including the passport expiry date. Applicants must also upload necessary documentation, such as a digital photograph of the passport's biographical page, and confirm their travel itinerary. It is important to ensure that the information provided is accurate and matches the US passport to avoid delays or rejection.

Once the eVisa is approved, US travelers can use it at Bahrain International Airport and head straight to the queues for eVisa holders. They must submit their passport and approved eVisa to border officials for inspection and entry. Most types of Bahrain eVisas can also be used to enter the country by land via the King Fahd Causeway, except for the GCC Visit Visa.

The eVisa allows multiple entries for 30 days each

Americans can travel to Bahrain, but they need to apply for a Bahrain eVisa in advance. The eVisa is linked directly to the traveller's passport and is necessary for entry into Bahrain. US citizens must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months before their planned trip to Bahrain.

The eVisa application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Applicants will need to provide personal information, such as their passport details, and answer some questions. They will also need to upload a digital photograph of their passport's biographical page and confirm their travel itinerary. The processing time for the eVisa is usually between 5 to 8 business days, and the visa is valid for 90 days after arrival in Bahrain.

In addition to the eVisa, there are no other major restrictions for US citizens travelling to Bahrain. Currently, there are no COVID-19-related requirements, such as quarantine or testing, for vaccinated travellers. However, it is recommended to check for any updates before departure, as the guidelines may change.

US citizens do not need to be vaccinated to enter Bahrain

US citizens can travel to Bahrain, and they do not need to be vaccinated to enter the country. In fact, since February 2022, Bahrain has lifted all COVID-19 restrictions, allowing all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, nationality, or age, to enter the country.

US citizens will need a valid US passport and a visa to enter Bahrain. The passport should be valid for at least six months before the planned trip. US citizens can apply for a Visit eVisa online through the Bahraini government, which allows for a stay of up to two weeks. This is the easiest and most cost-effective type of visa. Alternatively, travellers can apply for a regular tourist visa through the Bahraini embassy in Washington, DC, which will allow for multiple entries and a four-week stay.

It is important to note that some airlines may have imposed their own boarding rules, so travellers may be required to submit a negative COVID-19 test result to be allowed on board. Therefore, it is recommended to familiarise yourself with your airline's regulations. Additionally, all travellers are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering all overseas medical costs, including potential COVID-19 treatment costs.

Frequently asked questions