Bahrain: Authorities to update COVID-19 entry procedures from May 13 /update 25

Event

Beginning May 13, passengers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) who are fully vaccinated or recovered are no longer required to undergo a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon arrival to Bahrain. GCC passengers must show evidence of vaccination or recovery through a certification or an official GCC mobile application.

All other passengers arriving in Bahrain will undergo a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon arrival as well as on their fifth and 10th day of stay. All tests are at the traveler's expense. Travelers must also self-isolate until the individual receives a negative test result. Arrivals must also download the "BeAware Bahrain" application, which includes several tools for contact tracing, scheduling testing appointments, and distributing notifications concerning COVID-19.

Other measures taken by the government include:

• Entry is restricted to Bahraini citizens, residents, GCC citizens, passengers eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, and passengers with a valid eVisa. For a full list of nationalities eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, click here.

• All passengers must complete the Ministry of Health's "Health Declaration Form" prior to departing for Bahrain.

• International travelers are allowed to transit through Bahrain International Airport (BAH).

• Travelers arriving or transiting from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka must provide proof of a negative PCR test conducted no more than 48 hours before their departure.

• Arrivals from the King Fahd Causeway will need to provide a negative PCR result taken up to 72 hours before arrival.

• Authorities are accepting applications for and issuing work permits.

• Stringent public health measures are in force, such as the wearing of protective face coverings and social distancing.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Resources

Bahrain International Airport
Gulf Air (GF)
Bahrain's Nationality, Passport & Residence Affairs (NPRA) office
BeAware Bahrain App
World Health Organization (WHO)
Nationalities eligible for Visa on arrival