Expat residents can sponsor their father and mother (and children over 24) through the NPRA. This is done in two steps: first a family visa, then a residence permit once they are in Bahrain.
Step 1: the visa (applied for while they are outside Bahrain)
You need to provide:
- their passport, valid for more than 6 months;
- your passport;
- a letter from you explaining the relationship;
- a certified birth certificate;
- valid Bahraini health insurance for your parent;
- a salary certificate showing at least BD 1,000 a month;
- a no-objection letter from your employer;
- proof of where you live.
Fees are BD 5 to apply (not refunded), BD 5 for approval and BD 30 for issuance. It takes about 3 working days. You must pay within 30 days of approval, and the visa must be used within 3 months.
Step 2: the residence permit (applied for once they are inside Bahrain)
- BD 5 to apply, plus BD 50 to issue.
- Renewal costs BD 60 and needs your salary proof (at least BD 1,000), their health insurance, and their passport.
What people miss
- Your parents may not work, paid or unpaid, unless they get a permit.
- If you earn less than BD 1,000, a family visit visa is a separate option. It needs a salary of at least BD 250 and has the same BD 5 + 5 + 30 fees.
Steps
- Get Bahraini health insurance for your parent.
- Apply for the family visa while they are outside Bahrain (BD 5 + 5 + 30).
- Once they arrive, apply for the residence permit (BD 5 + 50).
- Renew the residence permit when it is due (BD 60).