Bahrain visa Extension
Are you planning to extend your stay in Bahrain beyond the validity of your current visa? This guide provides all the essential information you need to navigate the Bahrain visa extension process smoothly.
Understanding Bahrain Visas
Bahrain offers a variety of visas for different purposes, including tourism, business trips, and residency. Each visa type has its validity period and may or may not be eligible for extension. Familiarise yourself with your specific visa category to determine if an extension is applicable.
Benefits of Extending a Bahrain Visa
Extending your Bahrain visa allows you to continue enjoying the country's offerings past your initial visa expiration date. This could be beneficial for unforeseen circumstances like flight cancellations, business meetings that extend beyond your planned stay, or simply wanting more time to explore the wonders of Bahrain.
Who Can Apply for a Bahrain Visa Extension?
Eligible applicants for a Bahrain visa extension include:
- Visitors: Tourists who require additional time in Bahrain can apply for an extension.
- Business Travelers: Business visitors whose trip extends beyond their initial visa period can request an extension.
- Guarantors: Government organisations, companies operating in Bahrain, and Bahraini citizens can be guarantors for visitors seeking a visa extension.
Required Documents for a Bahrain Visa Extension
Get the following paperwork together before requesting a Bahrain visa extension to guarantee a seamless application process:
- Completed Service Request Form: This form can be obtained online or from the NPRA service centre.
- Valid Passport Copy: A clear photocopy of the applicant's passport, with a validity exceeding six months, is mandatory. (For Indian passports, include copies of pages containing biographical information and the MRP page).
- Guarantor Documents:
- A clear copy of the company's valid commercial registration is required for companies acting as guarantors.
- If a Bahraini citizen is the guarantor, a photocopy of their national ID card is necessary. (Government organisations are exempt from providing this document).
- Applicant/Authorized Representative ID: A clear copy of the applicant's ID or the authorised representative's ID applying is needed.
Applying for a Bahrain Visa Extension: Two Convenient Methods
Bahrain offers two ways to apply for a visa extension: online and in-person at the NPRA service centre.
Online Application:
- Visit the Kingdom of Bahrain National Portal.
- Choose your applicant type.
- To initiate the extension process, provide the required details, including passport information, date of birth, and nationality.
- Pay any applicable fees online.
In-Person Application:
- Download and install the "Mawaeid" app on your smartphone to schedule an appointment at the NPRA office.
- Visit the NPRA service centre on your scheduled appointment date with all the necessary documents.
- Follow the submission procedures outlined by the NPRA staff.
- Pay the extension fees and receive a receipt with your application number for tracking purposes.
Bahrain Visa Extension Fees
The cost of a Bahrain visa extension varies depending on the type of visa and the desired extension duration. Here's a breakdown of the fees:
- General Visa Extension:
- One-week extension: BD 40 (a BD 50 fee applies for extensions less than six days).
- One Month Extension: BD 30
- Two Week Extension: BD 25
- Three Month Extension: BD 20
NPRA Service Center Locations and Contact Hours:
The NPRA operates service centres in two locations:
- Isa Town: Building 1074, Road 4025, Complex 0840. Open Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM. (Google Maps location link can be included here).
- Muharraq: Building 378, Sheikh Hamad Street, Complex 211, Fourth Floor. Open Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM. (Google Maps location link can be included here).
Important Considerations
- Ensure you apply for the extension before your current visa expires. Overstaying your visa can lead to penalties.
- Incomplete applications will likely be rejected, so double-check that you have all the required documents.
- Processing times for visa extensions can vary. Factor this in when planning your trip extension.
- The information provided is for general guidance. It's advisable to visit the
FAQ
No, extensions for existing visas are not currently available upon arrival in Bahrain. You'll need to apply through the official channels before your visa expires.
In some cases, yes. Bahrain recently introduced a system allowing employers to renew work visas for expatriates even when they are outside the country. However, this option has limitations and only applies before the visa expires.
If your application is rejected by the NPRA, you will receive a notification outlining the reason for rejection. Depending on the specific circumstances, appeal processes may be available. It is crucial to address any shortcomings identified in the rejection notice before resubmitting your application.
There can be several reasons for a visa extension rejection. Some common reasons include:
- Incomplete application with missing documents.
- Need more validity remaining on your passport.
- Issues with your travel insurance coverage.
- Security concerns or past violations of Bahrain's immigration regulations.
Medical tests are optional for all visa extensions. However, specific resident visa categories might require a medical fitness test, particularly for long-term stays or employment purposes.