United Kingdom Visa for Bahrain Citizens 2026 - Requirements, Fees & Processing
Complete UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) guide for Bahraini citizens. Requirements, fees, and application process. Updated December 2026.
At a glance
Overview
Planning a trip to the UK as a Bahraini citizen? From January 2026, you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit. The good news: it costs just £16, takes about 3 working days to process, and is valid for 2 years. This guide covers everything you need to apply online and travel smoothly.
Visa Application process
Download the UK ETA App or Use the Website
Create an Account
Enter Your Details
Upload a Photo
Pay the Fee
Receive Your ETA
Visa Application Steps
- 1. Download the UK ETA App or Use the Website
- 2. Create an Account
- 3. Enter Your Details
- 4. Upload a Photo
- 5. Pay the Fee
- 6. Receive Your ETA
Visa Fees breakdown
| Item: Cost | ETA Application: £16 | Re-application (if refused): £16 | The £16 fee covers the application only.1 There are no additional government fees. If your ETA is refused, you would need to pay again if you choose to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa. |
|---|
What you need to prove
The ETA application asks basic screening questions:
- Identity verification through your passport details and photo
- No serious criminal history that would make you inadmissible
- No previous UK immigration violations such as overstays
- Genuine visitor intent for tourism, business, or family visits
Required documents
- Valid Passport
- Digital Photograph
- Email Address
- Payment Method
- Travel Purpose
Valid Passport
Digital Photograph
Email Address
Payment Method
Travel Purpose
Comparison
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| ETA Application | £16 |
| Re-application (if refused) | £16 |
Common rejection reasons
| % | Reason |
|---|---|
| 35% | Criminal Record |
| 30% | Previous Immigration Violations |
| 20% | Incorrect Information |
| 10% | Security Concerns |
| 5% | Ineligible Passport |
35% - Criminal Record
How to avoid: Disclose any convictions honestly in your application. Minor offences may not disqualify you.
30% - Previous Immigration Violations
How to avoid: Be honest about past issues. A previous refusal does not automatically mean another rejection.
20% - Incorrect Information
How to avoid: Double-check all details match your passport exactly before submitting.
10% - Security Concerns
How to avoid: If refused for security reasons, you may need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead.
5% - Ineligible Passport
How to avoid: Ensure you have a biometric Bahraini passport. Official and diplomatic passports have different requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Do Bahraini citizens need a visa for the UK?
Bahraini citizens do not need a traditional visa for short visits. However, from January 2026, you must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the UK.
How much does the UK ETA cost for Bahraini citizens?
The UK ETA costs £16. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is refused or you do not travel.
How long is the UK ETA valid?
The ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can make unlimited visits during this period, staying up to 6 months each time.
How long does UK ETA processing take?
Most ETA applications receive a decision within 3 working days. Many are approved within 24 hours. Apply at least a week before travel to be safe.
Can I work in the UK on an ETA?
No, the ETA does not permit employment. You can attend business meetings, conferences, and training, but you cannot work for a UK employer. For work, you need a work visa.
What if my ETA is refused?
If your ETA is refused, you can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa through the normal application process, which involves more documentation and a visa application centre visit.
Sources
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
https://visaindex.com/visa/uk-visa/bahrain/