+973 3373 3381

Phone Number

Mon - Thu: 8:00 - 5:00

Working Hours

Investor Visa Process for Tech Founders in Bahrain

Artificial Intelligence and Its Future in Saudi Arabia

Investor Visa Process for Tech Founders in Bahrain

Kickstart Your Journey with Expert Support

Our comprehensive package includes company formation, investor visa services, and corporate bank account assistance—ensuring a smooth and efficient process from day one.

 

Why Bahrain Is Ideal for Tech Founders

Bahrain offers full foreign ownership, zero personal or corporate tax (in most sectors), and streamlined residency via investor visas. It’s a prime destination for scaling tech ventures in the GCC.

 

Types of Investor Visas for Tech Founders

Choose from:

  • Business Investor Visa (sponsored through your tech startup)

  • Golden Residency Visa (10-year permit for high net worth or entrepreneur achievers)

 

Eligibility Criteria for Business Investor Visa

  • Must own shares in a registered Bahraini business (e.g. WLL or SPC)

  • Valid Commercial Registration certificate

  • Security clearance from the Ministry of Interior

  • Capital deposit certificate and office lease.

 

Eligibility for Golden Residency Visa

Possible routes include: business investment, property ownership (BD 200K+), monthly pension/income (BD 4,000+), or notable achievements in entrepreneurship.

 

Step 1: Register Your Tech Company

Set up a WLL/SPC under Bahrain’s digital portal (Sijilat) and deposit capital in a local bank. This is the foundational PR/CR needed for visa application.

 

Step 2: Obtain Security Clearance

Submit background checks for all shareholders/directors through the Ministry of Interior. Clearance is mandatory before the visa application. 

 

Step 3: Secure Registered Office Address

Lease a physical or virtual office approved by municipal regulations—required for CR registration.

 

Step 4: Notarize Key Legal Documents

Draft and notarize your Memorandum of Association (MOA), lease agreement, and CVs of founders in preparation for visa filing. 

 

Step 5: Open a Corporate Bank Account

Deposit required capital (amount varies by activity), receive capital deposit certificate—essential for visa submission. 

 

Step 6: Gather Required Documents

Required documents typically include:

  • Passport (valid 6+ months)

  • CR certificate

  • MOA

  • Capital deposit certificate

  • Security clearance

  • Office lease proof

  • Medical certificate (GAMCA)

  • Bank statements and shareholder CVs.

 

Step 7: Submit Visa Application

Apply via the LMRA or NPRA eVisa portal with electronic uploads. Processing typically takes 5–15 business days if documents are complete.

 

Fees Overview (2025 Rates)

  • 1-Year Investor Visa: BHD 172 (includes BHD 100 LMRA + BHD 72 healthcare)

  • 2-Year Visa: BHD 344

  • Renewal Options: 6‑months (BHD 86), 1‑year (BHD 172), 2‑years (BHD 344)

  • Monthly Fee: BHD 5 for initial resident permit
    Also budget for medical and security clearances and documentation costs.

 

Visa Validity & Renewal

Visa valid for 1–2 years, renewable online. Early renewal is permitted to avoid penalties.

 

Fast-Track & Golden Residency Options

Golden Residency (10-year visa) for high-net-worth investors, property investors, or achievers—provides broader mobility and stability. Golden visa holders are now eligible to apply for work permits. 

 

Self-Sponsorship Status

With an investor visa, you no longer need an employer sponsor. You can operate your company independently.

 

Family Sponsorship

Sponsors can bring spouse and children. Golden residency holders may also include parents under eligibility guidelines. 

 

Bahrainization & Labour Compliance

As your team grows, Bahrainization rules apply—requiring a proportion of Bahraini employees depending on workforce size. Free zones may have exemptions for early-stage tech ventures. 

 

Common Application Pitfalls

  • Incomplete or unnotarized documents

  • Delayed security clearance

  • Missing capital certificate

  • No approved office lease

  • Incorrect visa category or missing medical report

 

Processing Time by Step

StageDuration
Company Registration5–14 business days
Security Clearance~7–15 business days
Bank Account Setup3–10 business days
Visa Approval5–15 business days
Total Estimated Time4–6 weeks

 

Why Choose Bahrain as a Tech Founder

  • Fast incorporation and visa processing

  • Tax advantages and full ownership

  • Access to GCC financial markets

  • Strong banking support for tech entrepreneurs

  • Supportive ecosystem including accelerators and free zones.

 

How We Support Your Journey

Our support includes:

  • Business entity registration

  • PRO and document drafting

  • Capital deposit and banking liaison

  • Investor & Golden visa application

  • Family sponsorship and ongoing renewals

 

Tech Founders: Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Start company formation before visa planning

  • Ensure full security clearance early

  • Use virtual office if needed

  • Partner with local bank early

  • Engage a business setup specialist

 

Real Feedback from Entrepreneurs

“Investor visa holders don’t need to pay contributions to SIO. The salary can be registered via EMS.”
A tech founder from Bahrain shared this insight. 

 

Golden Residency Pathways for Founders

Entrepreneurs with scalable business models and capital may qualify for the 10-year Golden Residency, offering long-term stability and GCC mobility. 

 

What Happens Post-Visa Approval

You receive a Bahraini CPR card and residence permit. You can now:

  • Work freely under your own company

  • Sponsor family members

  • Access corporate banking

 

Renewal & Compliance Checklist

  • Renew CR annually

  • Submit audited accounts and VAT returns (if applicable)

  • Maintain valid residence permits and labour contracts

  • Stay updated with visa expiry and sponsorship rules

 

Fringe Benefits for Startups

  • Investor visa process is tied directly into your startup journey

  • Access to FinTech sandbox and innovation labs

  • Easier banking and tech-friendly services

  • Fast access to Bahrain’s free zones for tech companies

 

Bahrain vs. Other GCC Investor Visas

Bahrain’s investor visa is more accessible and affordable than UAE or Saudi alternatives—with no strict investment caps and broader tech eligibility.

 

Final Thoughts: Tech Founders, Bahrain Awaits

The investor visa process in Bahrain offers an unmatched combination of flexibility, speed, and investor protection. With Setup in Bahrain, you can launch your tech venture, gain residency, and access banking—all on a single, efficient journey.

If you’re ready to establish your company, open a bank account, and obtain your investor visa in Bahrain, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

MISA-liscence-service
MISA-liscence-service

Our Comprehensive Suite of Services for Saudi Arabia

From securing an audited company profile, handling all document attestations, and obtaining approvals from MISAto issuing your Commercial Registration, we handle the entire business setup — quickly, efficiently, and without hassle.

Company Formation

Hassle-free company setup in Saudi Arabia—legal structure, registration, and approvals, all handled for you.

Bank Account Setup

Fast corporate and personal bank account opening with trusted local and international banks.

Taxation

Stay compliant with VAT, Zakat, and tax filings—we handle it all accurately and on time.

MISA Licensing

Quick and seamless MISA license approvals for foreign investors to start operations in Saudi Arabia.

Investor Visa

Visa processing, renewals, and government approvals—so you can focus on your business, stress-free.

Pro Services

Our expert pro services include visa processing, government relations, & renewals etc.

Why Choose Us Over the Rest?

1. We Understand the Process, So You Don’t Have To

Navigating the regulations in Saudi Arabia can be complex. That’s why our experts handle all the paperwork, approvals, and formalities on your behalf.

2. Tailored Solutions for Every Business

Whether you’re a startup or an international corporation, our services are customized to fit your unique needs.

3. Your Success Is Our Priority

From the moment you contact us, your goals become our mission. We pride ourselves on fast results and exceptional service.

Start Your Journey!

“Your Business Growth Starts Here—Let’s Make It Happen!”

Contact Us Today.

They Love Us You'll Too