Last updated: July 2026 | Fact-checked against: evisa.gov.bh, NPRA Bahrain
Pakistani passport holders need a visa to enter Bahrain. The good news is that Pakistan is on the official list of countries eligible for the Bahrain e-Visa, which means you can apply entirely online without visiting an embassy. This guide covers every visa type available to Pakistani citizens, the exact documents you need, current fees in BHD and USD, and how to avoid common application mistakes.
Do Pakistani Citizens Need a Visa for Bahrain?
Yes. Pakistan is not a GCC member state, so Pakistani nationals must obtain a visa before traveling to Bahrain. However, Pakistan is listed as country #114 on the Bahrain e-Visa eligibility list, which means you can apply for an electronic visa through the official portal at evisa.gov.bh.
There is one exception: if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from Saudi Arabia, the USA, the UAE, the UK, or a Schengen country, you may qualify for a visa on arrival at Bahrain International Airport.
Bahrain Visa Types Available for Pakistani Citizens
Pakistani passport holders can apply for the following visa types:
| Visa Type | Validity | Entry Type | Fee (BHD) | Fee (USD approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14-Day e-Visa | 14 days | Single entry | 10 BHD | ~$27 |
| 30-Day e-Visa | 30 days | Multiple entry | 17 BHD | ~$45 |
| 3-Month e-Visa (Non-GCC resident) | 90 days | Multiple entry | 25 BHD | ~$66 |
| 1-Year e-Visa | 365 days | Multiple entry | 45 BHD | ~$120 |
The 14-day single-entry visa is the most common choice for short visits. If you plan to travel in and out of Bahrain multiple times, the 30-day or 1-year multiple-entry visa offers better value.
For a full breakdown of fees and what each type includes, see our Bahrain visa fee guide.
Requirements: Documents You Need
To apply for a Bahrain e-Visa as a Pakistani citizen, prepare these documents:
Mandatory documents:
- Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity from your intended travel date
- Passport scan (bio page and back page)
- Recent passport-size photograph meeting Bahrain photo specifications
- Return flight itinerary or confirmed travel booking
- Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation in Bahrain
- Bank statement covering the last 6 months, verified by your bank
- Minimum bank balance of $1,000 USD (or equivalent in PKR) as a closing balance
Additional documents that may be requested:
- Employment letter or business registration (if applicable)
- Travel insurance (recommended, not always mandatory)
- Sponsor letter from a Bahrain resident (if staying with family or friends)
For detailed document specifications and photo requirements, refer to our Bahrain visa requirements checklist.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
The entire application is done online through the official Bahrain e-Visa portal. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Create an Account on evisa.gov.bh
Go to evisa.gov.bh and register with your email address. You will receive a verification email to activate your account.
Step 2: Select Your Visa Type
Choose the visa category that matches your travel purpose and duration. For most Pakistani tourists, the 14-day or 30-day e-Visa is sufficient.
Step 3: Fill in Personal Details
Enter your passport information exactly as it appears on your travel document. Any mismatch between your application and passport can lead to rejection.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload clear scans of your passport, photograph, bank statement, flight itinerary, and hotel booking. Ensure all documents are legible and in the accepted file formats (PDF or JPEG).
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
Payment is made by credit or debit card directly on the portal. The fee is non-refundable even if your application is denied.
Step 6: Receive Your e-Visa
Processing typically takes 1 to 3 business days. Once approved, you will receive a QR code confirmation via email. Print this document or save it on your phone to present at immigration.
For a more detailed walkthrough with screenshots, see our online application guide.
Bahrain Visa on Arrival for Pakistani Passport Holders
Pakistani citizens are generally not eligible for a standard visa on arrival. However, there is an important exception:
If you hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of these countries, you can get a 1-month visa on arrival at Bahrain airport:
- Saudi Arabia (note: Hajj and Umrah visas are excluded)
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
- United Kingdom
- Any Schengen country
The visa on arrival is extendable for an additional 2 weeks. You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of sufficient funds, a return ticket, and a Bahrain address.
If you do not hold a valid visa from one of these countries, you must apply for the e-Visa before departure. Learn more about visa on arrival rules and eligibility.
Processing Time for Pakistani Applicants
The standard processing time for a Bahrain e-Visa is 1 to 3 business days. In most cases, Pakistani applicants receive a decision within 48 hours.
Factors that can delay processing:
- Incomplete or unclear document uploads
- Bank statement not showing the minimum $1,000 balance
- Passport validity less than 6 months
- High application volumes during peak travel seasons (Eid, summer holidays)
Apply at least 2 weeks before your planned travel date to allow buffer time. Check our Bahrain visa processing time guide for current estimates and tips to speed up approval.
Bahrain Visa Fees for Pakistani Citizens
| Visa Category | Duration | Fee (BHD) | Fee (USD) | Fee (PKR approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-term single entry | 14 days | 10 BHD | $27 | ~PKR 7,500 |
| Short-term multiple entry | 30 days | 17 BHD | $45 | ~PKR 12,600 |
| 3-month multiple entry | 90 days | 25 BHD | $66 | ~PKR 18,500 |
| Long-term multiple entry | 1 year | 45 BHD | $120 | ~PKR 33,600 |
Important: These are government fees charged by the Bahrain e-Visa portal. Third-party agencies may charge additional service fees on top. The PKR amounts are approximate and fluctuate with exchange rates.
Processing fees paid through third-party platforms are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied. Always apply through the official evisa.gov.bh portal to avoid unnecessary markups.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Pakistani applicants face a higher scrutiny rate compared to some other nationalities. The most common reasons for Bahrain visa rejection include:
- Insufficient bank balance – The $1,000 minimum closing balance is strictly enforced
- Passport validity issues – Must be valid for 6+ months from travel date
- Document quality – Blurry scans or incomplete uploads cause automatic delays
- Previous visa violations – Overstaying a prior Bahrain or GCC visa will flag your application
- Mismatched information – Details on the application must exactly match your passport
If your application is denied, the visa fee is not refunded. You can reapply after addressing the reason for rejection.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early: Submit your application at least 10-14 days before travel
- Use the official portal: Apply at evisa.gov.bh to avoid third-party markups
- Verify bank balance: Ensure your closing balance exceeds $1,000 on the statement date
- Check passport expiry: Renew your passport if it expires within 6 months of your trip
- Keep documents ready: Have all scans prepared in advance to avoid timeout during the application
- Save your QR code: Print or screenshot your approved e-Visa QR code for immigration
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in Bahrain on a tourist e-Visa?
No. The tourist e-Visa does not authorize employment. To work in Bahrain, your employer must sponsor a work permit through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA). Attempting to work on a tourist visa can result in deportation and future entry bans.
Can I extend my Bahrain e-Visa?
The 14-day e-Visa can be extended for an additional 2 weeks by visiting the NPRA (Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs) office in Bahrain before your visa expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to approval.
Is travel insurance required for Bahrain?
Travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for the e-Visa application. However, it is strongly recommended. Medical costs in Bahrain can be high for uninsured visitors, and insurance covers emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.
How many times can I enter Bahrain on my e-Visa?
It depends on the visa type. The 14-day visa is single entry, meaning you cannot re-enter once you leave. The 30-day, 3-month, and 1-year visas allow multiple entries within their validity period.
What happens if I overstay my Bahrain visa?
Overstaying results in fines that accumulate daily. You may also face detention, deportation, and a ban on future entry to Bahrain and potentially other GCC countries. Always leave before your visa expires or apply for an extension in advance.
Do children need a separate visa?
Yes. Every traveler, including children and infants, needs their own visa and passport. The same requirements and fees apply regardless of age.
Related Guides
- Bahrain e-Visa: Complete Guide – Overview of the electronic visa system
- Bahrain Visa Requirements – Full document checklist
- Bahrain Visa Types – All visa categories explained
- Bahrain Visa Fees – Detailed fee breakdown
- Bahrain Visa Online Application – Step-by-step portal walkthrough
- Bahrain Visa on Arrival – Eligibility and process
- Bahrain Visa Processing Time – Current processing estimates
