Start My Assessment

← All countries

Bahrain

Start My Assessment

At a glance

Living index rating
Moderate
Monthly rent
BHD 120 – BHD 250 for a shared room or student housing; studio in Manama BHD 250 – BHD 400
Monthly food
BHD 80 – BHD 150
Other monthly expenses
BHD 50 – BHD 120 (transport, phone, utilities, personal)
Visa processing time
About 1 – 3 weeks after university acceptance
Family allowed for students
No

Visa requirements

  • Student residence permit sponsored by a licensed Bahraini university and issued by the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA)
  • Acceptance letter and proof of fees paid
  • Medical test and a CPR (Bahraini ID card) after arrival
  • Passport and photos; the permit is issued for 1 year and renewed while you're enrolled
  • Part-time work only with separate authorisation; check the current LMRA rules with your university first

Work permit after studies

  • No post-study work visa
  • Graduates move to an employer-sponsored work permit through the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA), or the Golden Residency if they qualify

Citizenship route

  • No routine permanent residence or citizenship route for former students
  • Golden Residency gives long-term renewable residence to property owners, retirees, talented individuals and long-term residents

Family details

  • Student residence permits don't normally allow you to sponsor family
  • Family sponsorship is for working residents who meet salary requirements; relatives can visit on visit visas

Universities in Bahrain

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (15), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.