Bahrain Lowers Golden Visa Investment to Boost Foreign Residency
Bahrain has lowered the minimum real estate investment required for its Golden Residency Visa to BHD 130,000, down from BHD 200,000. This move is designed to make the visa more accessible to foreign investors. The Golden Residency Visa, introduced in 2022, offers a 10-year renewable residence with work rights and family reunification. The Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) has stated that this change is expected to support real estate demand and strengthen Bahrain’s appeal as a long-term residency and business hub.
According to a Gulf News report, the NPRA announced the revised criteria as part of Bahrain’s strategy to enhance its competitiveness in the Gulf region. Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Undersecretary for NPRA, emphasized that the government remains committed to providing a stable environment for long-term investors. “Lowering the threshold will boost the program’s competitiveness while preserving its standards and exclusivity,” he said.
Who Qualifies for the Visa
The Golden Residency Visa is open to a variety of individuals, including: - Property investors meeting the revised investment threshold of BHD 130,000. - Professionals earning at least BHD 2,000 per month with a minimum of five years of service in Bahrain. - Retirees with pensions above BHD 2,000. - Non-resident retirees with pensions over BHD 4,000. - Entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals. - Contributors to the national economy or society.
Benefits and Application Process
Golden Visa holders enjoy a range of benefits, including: - Lifetime residency. - Flexibility to work. - Unlimited entry. - Full business ownership. - Family sponsorship privileges.
The application process involves submitting the following documents: - A valid passport. - Six months of bank statements. - Health insurance. - Proof of residence.
Fees for the application include BHD 5 for the application and BHD 300 for visa issuance.
This reduction in the investment threshold is expected to significantly boost the real estate market and attract a diverse range of foreign investors to Bahrain. The kingdom’s strategic location and business-friendly environment make it an attractive destination for those looking to establish a long-term residency and business presence in the Gulf region.
