Bahrain Country Guide
Your Complete Guide to Moving, Living & Working in Bahrain
Important: This guide provides essential information for individuals and families relocating to the Kingdom of Bahrain. Known for its welcoming culture, strategic Gulf location, modern financial sector and growing services economy, Bahrain attracts professionals in banking, insurance, logistics, manufacturing, technology and education. Visa rules, residence options and programs such as Golden Residency are updated regularly, so always confirm details on official Bahrain government portals before you relocate.
Home To Home Relocations supports clients across Toronto, the GTA and Ontario with international moves to Bahrain, including export packing, air/ocean shipping, customs documentation and final delivery to major areas such as Manama, Muharraq, Riffa, Isa Town, Hamad Town, Seef and Amwaj Islands.
1. Before You Move to Bahrain
1.1 Visa Types & Residency Routes
Most newcomers enter Bahrain on an entry visa and then complete residency procedures once in the country. Common categories include:
- Employment Residence Permit – sponsored by a Bahraini employer
- Family Residency Permit – for eligible dependants of a resident
- Golden Residency Visa – long-term residency linked to investment, high income or special categories
- Self-Sponsor / Long-Term Residency – for qualifying investors or professionals (via NPRA eServices)
- Student Residency – for recognised educational institutions
- Visit & eVisas – short stays for tourism or business (online eVisa system)
Key official resources include the Bahrain National Portal, eVisa platform and NPRA/Residency eServices.
1.2 Working in Bahrain
The Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) oversees foreign work permits. In most cases, your employer will arrange:
- Work permit approval
- Entry visa
- Medical test arrangements
- Residence permit issuance
1.3 Housing & Accommodation
Bahrain offers apartments and villas in city neighbourhoods and expat-friendly areas such as Juffair, Seef, Amwaj Islands and Saar. Typical rental requirements include:
- Passport and visa copy
- CPR (Central Population Registry) number or residence permit details, where available
- Security deposit (often 1 month)
- Rent paid monthly or quarterly, sometimes via post-dated cheques
1.4 Banking & Finances
The local currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD). To open a bank account, you may be asked for:
- Passport
- CPR/residence permit
- Proof of address
- Employer’s salary or introduction letter
1.5 Healthcare & Insurance
Bahrain has modern public and private hospitals and clinics. Many expatriates use private medical providers, often covered by employer-provided health insurance.
1.6 Key Documents to Prepare Before Moving
- Passport (with required minimum validity)
- Signed employment contract or offer letter
- Educational certificates (often attested)
- Marriage and birth certificates for dependants (attested)
- Police clearance certificate, if requested
- Medical reports if required for certain visa categories
2. Your First Weeks in Bahrain
2.1 Medical Examination & Biometrics
Most residence permits require a medical fitness test at an approved clinic, plus fingerprinting and photo capture.
2.2 CPR & Residence Permit
The CPR (Central Population Registry) number and residence permit are your key identifiers in Bahrain. They are required for banking, utilities, school registration and many government eServices.
2.3 Opening a Bank Account
Once your residence is processed and you have a CPR number, you can usually open a local bank account to receive your salary and manage daily expenses.
2.4 Housing, Utilities & Internet
- Some rentals include electricity, water and municipality charges; others bill separately
- Internet and mobile providers are widely available across the Kingdom
- Landlords or building management may assist with initial setup
3. Bahrain at a Glance
3.1 Geography & Regions
Bahrain is an island kingdom in the Arabian Gulf, connected to Saudi Arabia via the King Fahd Causeway. The capital Manama is the main commercial hub, with other key areas including Muharraq, Riffa, Isa Town, Hamad Town, Saar and Amwaj Islands.
3.2 Politics & Economy
Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy with a diversified economy that includes banking and finance, manufacturing, logistics, tourism and services alongside the oil sector.
3.3 Climate & Weather
The climate is arid, with very hot summers and mild winters. Outdoor activities are most comfortable from around November to March.
4. Why Many Canadians Choose Bahrain
- Developed banking and financial services hub
- English widely spoken in business and daily life
- Compact, easy-to-navigate country with short commutes
- Tax-friendly environment and competitive salary packages
- Family-friendly atmosphere and established expat communities
5. Housing, Cost of Living & Daily Life
Bahrain offers a modern lifestyle with shopping malls, cafés, waterfronts and cultural events. Cost of living considerations include:
- Rent (higher in popular expat areas such as Juffair, Seef and Amwaj)
- Electricity, water and municipality charges
- School fees for international schools
- Private healthcare and insurance top-ups if needed
- Transport – many residents own cars, though taxis and ride-hailing apps are available
6. Transportation & Getting Around
6.1 Public Transport
Bahrain has a growing public bus network and an extensive road system. Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely used.
6.2 Driving in Bahrain
Bahrain drives on the right-hand side. Many expatriates convert or exchange their existing licences depending on their nationality and visa status.
6.3 Regional Travel
Bahrain International Airport offers direct connections to major cities in the Middle East, Europe and Asia. The King Fahd Causeway provides road access to Saudi Arabia.
7. Culture, Lifestyle & Places to Visit
7.1 Everyday Culture
- Bahrain is a Muslim country with a long trading and maritime history
- Expatriates are welcomed, and English is widely used
- Respect for local customs, dress codes and religious practices is expected
- Family, hospitality and community life play an important role
7.2 Popular Cities & Attractions
- Manama: Bahrain National Museum, souks, financial district
- Muharraq: Traditional houses, heritage trails, old markets
- Amwaj Islands & Seef: Waterfront living, cafés and malls
- Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain): UNESCO World Heritage site
- Bahrain International Circuit: Formula 1 and motorsport events