Bahrain Transit Visa for Indians – A Complete Guide

Bahrain is a small island nation in the Persian Gulf near Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Some airlines use Bahrain as a stopover point for flights between Asia, Europe, and Africa. If you plan to visit Europe or Africa from India, you may need to transit through Bahrain International Airport.

So when is the Bahrain transit visa essential? This guide will answer all your questions related to the Bahrain transit visa like what is it, what is the eligibility and process to apply, etc. But remember, when you travel in a foreign land, getting yourself secured against unforeseen incidents is of utmost importance. A travel insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance helps you travel stress-free and secure your peace of mind.

What Is a Bahrain Transit Visa?

A Bahrain Transit Visa is not a separate visa category; instead, those Indians who want to step out of the Bahrain airport to explore the country in a short period of time during a layover must apply for a Bahrain visit visa or eVisa.

So, as an Indian citizen, if you are transiting through Bahrain, this visit visa allows a short stay of up to 14 days. However, if the layover is within the airport and the next flight is within the same transit zone, you do not need a visa.

Understanding the Eligibility of Bahrain Transit Visa

Indian citizens are eligible for a Bahrain visit visa if they meet the specific requirements set by the Bahraini government.

• Validity of passport: Indian travellers must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the day they enter Bahrain.
• Confirmed onward flight tickets: You must have a confirmed onward or return ticket to another country, as this confirms that you do not intend to overstay in Bahrain.
• Proof of accommodation: If you are leaving the airport, you must show proof of accommodation, like a confirmed hotel booking with your name, so that authorities know you have a safe place to stay.
• Proof of sufficient funds: You must have enough money in your bank account to cover your stay.
• Valid visa for your final destination: If your final destination required a visa, you must have it and it should be valid.

What Are the Documents Required?

The documents required for the Bahrain transit visa are:

• Copy of passport with six months validity.
• Passport-size photographs.
• Duly filled visa application form.
• Confirmed onward and return flight tickets.
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host invitation).
• Bank statements or evidence of sufficient funds for stay.
• Travel insurance document.
• Visa for onward destination.

How to Apply for a Bahrain Transit Visa?

You can apply for a Bahrain transit visa either online or through the visa on-arrival facility provided by the Bahrain International Airport.

Online eVisa Application

• Step 1:Visit the official website of the Bahrain eVisa portal.
• Step 2:You will need to fill out the application form. Register on the portal using your email ID, and then provide your personal details, travel information, passport number, etc.
• Step 3: Upload the scanned copies of all the required documents like passport, photographs, onward tickets, proof of hotel booking, bank statements, etc.
• Step 4: Pay the visa fee as mentioned on the portal. The visa fees vary depending on the number of days or the visa type.
• Step 5:Submit the application and wait for approval. The approval takes around 3-5 days.
• Step 6:Once approved, your eVisa will be sent to your email ID. Print the eVisa and carry it with you when you arrive in Bahrain and show it to the authorities for inspection.

Visa-on-Arrival

• Step 1: You can also apply for a Bahrain visa after you arrive at the Bahrain International Airport.
• Step 2:Once you step at the airport, head to the visa counter. Present all the required documents to the immigration officers.
• Step 3:Fill out the visa application form and pay the fees at the counter.
• Step 5:Before approval, you will need to undergo biometric checks like fingerprints and photos.
• Step 6:After approval, you will receive the visa and the immigration process is complete.

Quick Tips for Indians When Applying for a Bahrain Transit Visa

Indian travellers should keep these points in mind when applying for a Bahrain transit visa:

1. It is always better to apply for the visa before arrival so that there is no issue of missing documents. The risk of last minute rejection can be avoided if you apply for the visa online before you leave for your destination. The online process takes around 3-5 days, so you can apply a week before you depart for your journey.
2. Ensure your passport is valid for atleast 6 months because this is a mandatory requirement. Also, you need to show to the immigration authorities your onward travel tickets, hotel reservation, and bank statements and other financial documents.
3. If you apply for the visa on arrival, pay the fees in local currency. For an online visa, you can use your debit or credit card.
4. If you apply online, do not forget to carry a printout of your visa to avoid any confusion, even though digital documents may be accepted.
5. If you plan to stay within the airport, visa is not required, however long you wait at the airport. But if you plan to step out, do not forget to get a visa, or you may be denied entry.

Conclusion

If you want to explore Bahrain during a layover, the Bahraini government has made it mandatory to get a visa. The visa can be applied for online or also on arrival, and the process is simple. Just keep in mind that you need to have all the required documents.

And remember, before you embark on your journey, get an international travel insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance to safeguard your trip and have memorable experiences.

FAQs

1. For how long is my Bahrain transit visa valid?

The Bahrain visit visa for transit is valid for up to 14 days. You can use it to explore the country.

2. Can I get a Bahrain visa on arrival?

Yes, you can apply for a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport; for getting a transit visa you should have all the required documents.

3. How long will it take to get a Bahrain eVisa?

You will get an eVisa approval after you have applied for Bahrain eVisa within 3 to 5 working days.

4. Is it necessary to have travel insurance for a Bahrain transit visa?

Even though travel insurance is not mandatory but is useful as it helps you stay protected against travel delays, medical issues, or loss of belongings.

5. Can I apply for the Bahrain visa online?

Yes, the Bahraini government has an official website for applying for visa online. You can apply for the visa a week before you leave.

6. What happens if I miss my connecting flight in Bahrain?

If you miss your connecting flight in Bahrain, contact the airline and immigration officials at the airport for guidance. They may extend your stay.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.