Bahrain changes visa, residency fees to boost competition

Changes approved by Cabinet include the introduction of a one-time visa valid for two weeks.

Bahrain’s Cabinet has approved the launch of visa and residency reforms amongst other measures to boost competition in the country and attract more investors and tourists.

The Cabinet approved a draft order to alter the General Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs’ service fees.

Changes will include the introduction of a one-time visa valid for two weeks for a fee of $13 (BD5), the extension of the duration stay per visit for a three-month multiple entry visa holder from two weeks to a month, the issuance of a multiple entry visa valid for one year for a fee of $225 (BD85) and the increase in the price of a five-year multiple entry visa from $160 (BD60) to $450 (BD170).

Other measures discussed during the cabinet’s meeting include the improvement of government performance, the enhancement of government-citizen communication through the establishment of the National Communication Centre and the reorganisation of the Transport and Telecommunications Ministry.