What is the naturalization requirement for Bahrain?

Foreigners may apply for Bahraini citizenship after 25 years of residence, or 15 years if they are nationals of Arab countries, with proof of good conduct and income.

Do I have to pay taxes in Bahrain?

Bahrain does not impose personal income taxes. However, your home country may require tax filings, so consult a tax advisor to understand your obligations.

Get Your Bahrain Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply

Q: Does Bahrain allow dual citizenship?

No, Bahrain generally does not permit dual citizenship. Exceptions require prior government approval, and unauthorized dual nationals may lose Bahraini citizenship.

Q: Can I apply for Bahraini citizenship through marriage?

Yes, but only foreign women married to Bahraini men are eligible after 5 years of marriage. Men married to Bahraini women are not automatically eligible.

Q: Can I claim Bahraini citizenship through my mother?

Possibly. Children of Bahraini mothers and foreign fathers may apply, but approval is not automatic and is subject to Ministry discretion.

Let us make the application process easier. With our network of experts, easy-to-use tools and helpful progress trackers, we're your complete resource for acquiring dual citizenship.

Eligibility Overview

By Descent : Children born to a Bahraini father automatically acquire citizenship. Children of a Bahraini mother and foreign father may apply, but approval is discretionary.
By Marriage : A foreign woman married to a Bahraini man can apply for citizenship after 5 years of marriage. A foreign man married to a Bahraini woman has no automatic right to citizenship.
By Naturalization: Foreigners may apply after 25 years of residence (15 years for Arab nationals), with a clean record and lawful income.
Dual Citizenship Not Allowed (With Limited Exceptions): Bahraini citizens must seek prior approval to acquire another nationality. Unauthorized dual citizens risk losing their Bahraini citizenship.

Step-by-Step Process

Confirm your path: descent, marriage, or naturalization.
Submit your application to the Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA) in Bahrain or through a Bahraini consulate.
Provide necessary documents such as birth certificates, proof of residence, marriage certificate, or employment records.
Undergo background and security checks.
Take the citizenship oath if your application is approved.

Benefits of Bahraini Citizenship

Legal right to live, work, and do business in Bahrain
Access to public healthcare and education
Full political and property rights within Bahrain
Eligibility to pass citizenship to children (with conditions)

Frequently asked questions.

Does Bahrain allow dual citizenship?

No, Bahrain generally does not allow dual citizenship. However, exceptions may be made with explicit royal or governmental permission. Unauthorized dual citizens may lose their Bahraini status.

Can I apply for Bahraini citizenship through marriage?

Yes, but only women married to Bahraini men are eligible after 5 years of marriage. Men married to Bahraini women are not granted citizenship through marriage.

Can I claim Bahraini citizenship through my mother?

Only in limited cases. If your mother is Bahraini and your father is not, you may apply, but approval is not automatic and depends on Ministry discretion.

Will I owe taxes in both countries?

Bahrain has no personal income tax, but other countries may tax your global income. Always check with a tax advisor to ensure you meet all filing requirements in both jurisdictions.