Bahrain Golden Visa 2025: A Lower-Cost, Tax-Free Alternative to UAE and Saudi Residency

For years, the UAE and Saudi Arabia have dominated discussions around long-term Gulf residency. However, Bahrain is increasingly positioning itself as an affordable, stable, and expat-friendly destination, aligning with regional strategies to attract investors, skilled professionals, families, and retirees as Gulf economies diversify beyond oil.

Bahrain’s Golden Residency Visa, launched in 2022 and updated in 2025, is part of the kingdom’s Vision 2030. The program provides a 10-year renewable residency permit designed to promote long-term settlement rather than short-term labor rotations. “Unlike traditional Gulf visas, it is not tied to a single employer and does not impose rigid stay requirements,” allowing holders full work freedom, business ownership, freelancing opportunities, and family sponsorship for spouses, children, and parents.

The visa offers multiple pathways:

• Property Investment Route: Minimum qualifying property investment of BHD 130,000 (≈ USD 345,000), reduced from BHD 200,000 in 2025, with residency validity of 10 years, renewable indefinitely.
• Exceptional Talent Route: For entrepreneurs, researchers, artists, athletes, and innovators with significant contributions, offering the same long-term benefits.
• Retirees: Income-based eligibility for resident retirees (minimum BHD 2,000/month) and non-resident retirees (minimum BHD 4,000/month).

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, have a clean criminal record, good health, and proof of financial capability. Golden Residency holders may sponsor family members, with no minimum stay required to maintain residency.

Bahrain does not offer citizenship through investment; the Golden Residency grants long-term security but not a passport. Residents benefit from zero personal income tax, relatively low cost of living, and a high quality of life, with strong healthcare, safety, and educational infrastructure. A family of four’s monthly living costs are estimated at BHD 1,076 (≈ USD 2,855), making Bahrain 25% cheaper than the UAE and slightly more affordable than Saudi Arabia.

With over half its population comprised of expatriates, including South Asian communities, Bahrain offers a diverse, welcoming environment. Its business-friendly policies—100% foreign ownership, 0% corporate tax, and streamlined company formation—make it attractive for entrepreneurs and SMEs seeking Gulf access at lower costs.

“Bahrain does not match the scale or global profile of the UAE or Saudi Arabia, but it offers long-term residency, affordability, and work freedom, making it an appealing alternative for investors, professionals, and families,” experts say.