Golden Residency is a long-term residence permit run by the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs directorate (NPRA). You apply online through the eGovernment portal; there is no sponsor.
Who qualifies (NPRA and the Golden Residency site)
- Residents who work here: at least 5 years in Bahrain with an average basic salary of more than BHD 2,000 over the last 5 years.
- Retirees who lived here: 15 years or more of work in Bahrain and an average pension above BHD 2,000.
- Retirees living abroad: a pension of BHD 4,000 or more.
- Property owners: property in Bahrain worth at least BHD 130,000 when bought.
- Talented people nominated by a government body (academics, athletes, entrepreneurs, inventors, artists and similar).
Everyone needs valid health insurance issued in Bahrain, a passport valid for more than 6 months and a 6-month bank statement, plus the proof for their category (salary certificate, pension proof, title deed and so on).
Cost
- BHD 5 application fee per person, not refunded.
- BHD 300 per person, an administrative fee charged every 10 years.
Timing: NPRA lists 5 working days to process an employee or resident-retiree application.
The catch: only the basic salary counts. Bonuses and allowances are left out, and the Golden Residency site says you must have been insured with SIO on that salary for the whole 5 years. Once approved, pay within 30 days or the application is cancelled automatically.
Steps
- Check which category you fit and that your basic salary or pension meets the limit.
- Collect your passport, ID card, Bahrain health insurance certificate, 6-month bank statement and category proof.
- Apply on the eGovernment portal and pay the BHD 5 application fee.
- Wait for the decision (about 5 working days for resident employees and retirees).
- Pay the BHD 300 fee within 30 days of approval.
Recommended places
- NPRA headquarters (passports and residence)