Second Passport Options for Citizens of Bahrain

1. What countries offer citizenship for Bahrain passport holders by investment programs?


As a Bahraini passport holder, you can obtain citizenship from the following countries through their investment programs:

1. Cyprus
2. Dominica
3. Grenada
4. Saint Kitts and Nevis

2. What is the minimum investment required for each country’s citizenship by investment program?

– Cyprus: €2 million
– Dominica: $100,000 (for single applicant)
– Grenada: $150,000 (for single applicant)
– Saint Kitts and Nevis: $150,000 (for single applicant)

Please note that the minimum investment amount may vary depending on individual circumstances and additional fees may apply.

3. What are the general requirements for these countries’ citizenship by investment programs?

The general requirements for these countries’ citizenship by investment programs include:

– Minimum age requirement
– Proof of source of funds for investment
– No criminal record
– Good health
– Residency requirements (may vary for each country)
– Payment of application fees and other associated costs
– Investment in one of the approved options (e.g. real estate, government bonds, etc.)

It is important to note that each country has its own specific criteria and requirements for their citizenship by investment program, so it is recommended to carefully review each option before making a decision.

4. How long does it take to obtain citizenship through these programs?

The processing time varies for each country’s program but it can take anywhere from 6 months up to several years depending on various factors such as your individual circumstances, the complexity of your application and any potential delays in processing.

5. Can I maintain my Bahraini citizenship while obtaining another country’s citizenship through an investment program?

Yes, currently Bahrain allows dual citizenship with other countries and there are no restrictions on maintaining your Bahraini citizenship while obtaining another country’s citizenship through an investment program.

However, it is important to check if the other country also allows dual citizenship and if there are any restrictions or limitations on holding multiple citizenships.

2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in Bahrain?

Yes, dual citizenship can be obtained in Bahrain under certain circumstances. The Citizenship Act of 1963 allows for dual citizenship if one of the following criteria are met:

– One of the parents is a Bahraini citizen and the other is from a country that allows its citizens to hold multiple nationalities.
– A person with Bahraini citizenship acquires another citizenship through marriage.
– A child born in Bahrain to foreign parents can obtain dual citizenship through registration at the Civil Status Bureau.

If none of these criteria apply, individuals must renounce their previous citizenship to become solely a citizen of Bahrain.

3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Bahrain?

The processing time for a second passport in Bahrain varies depending on the individual’s circumstances and the volume of applications at the time. Generally, it can take between 4-8 weeks to obtain a second passport.

4. Can anyone apply for a second passport in Bahrain?
No, not everyone is eligible to apply for a second passport in Bahrain. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria set by the government, such as having valid reasons for needing a second passport (e.g. frequent travel for business), having no pending criminal cases or issues with your current passport, and being able to prove that your current passport is nearing expiration or full of visa stamps making it difficult to obtain visas for future travel.

5. Do I need to surrender my original passport when applying for a second passport in Bahrain?

Yes, you will need to submit your original passport when applying for a second one. This will be returned to you along with your new second passport.

6. How much does it cost to obtain a second passport in Bahrain?

The cost of obtaining a second passport in Bahrain varies depending on factors such as processing fees, expedited services, and document authentication fees. The total cost can range from approximately BD 100-300.

7. Can I use my second passport as my primary travel document?

No, your original (first) passport will still be considered as your primary travel document and should be used whenever possible. Your second passport is intended for specific situations only and should not replace your first one unless absolutely necessary.

8. Can I have more than one valid second passports at the same time?

No, according to Bahraini law, an individual is only allowed to hold one valid secondary/passport at any given time.

9. Will my dual citizenship be disclosed if I apply for a second passport in Bahrain?

Bahrain does not recognize dual citizenship officially; however, they do allow individuals to hold dual nationality under some circumstances. Your application for a second passport may require you to disclose your other citizenship(s) or residency status, but this information will be kept confidential.

10. Will obtaining a second passport affect my current visa or residence permit status in Bahrain?
No, obtaining a second passport in Bahrain should not have any negative impact on your current visa or residence permit status. However, it is always best to check with the relevant authorities to confirm if there are any specific regulations or requirements that may apply to your situation.

4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Bahrain?


Yes, applicants must be able to speak and understand Arabic or English and have been a resident of Bahrain for a minimum of five years before they can apply for naturalization and obtain a second passport.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in Bahrain?

The cost of obtaining a second passport in Bahrain varies depending on the reason for acquiring it. Generally, the cost includes application fees, processing fees, and any additional fees for services such as expedited processing or courier delivery. The exact cost can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is recommended to contact the relevant authorities or consult with an immigration lawyer for more specific information about the cost of obtaining a second passport in Bahrain.

6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Bahrain?


Yes, spouses and children can also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Bahrain. The citizenship by investment program allows for the main applicant to include their spouse and dependent children under 18 years of age in their application. Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific situation of each family member, but they can all be included in the same application and obtain citizenship together.

7. Does Bahrain allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?


Yes, Bahrain passport holders can travel to many popular destinations without a visa or with a visa on arrival. Some of these destinations include:

1. Most countries in the European Union (visa-free)

2. United Kingdom (visa-free for visits up to 6 months)

3. Switzerland (visa-free for visits up to 90 days)

4. United States (visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program)

5. Canada (visa-free for visits up to 6 months)

6. Australia (Electronic Travel Authorization available online)

7. New Zealand (Electronic Travel Authority available online)

8. Singapore (visa-free for visits up to 30 days)

9. Malaysia (visa-free for visits up to 90 days)

10. Japan (visa-free for visits up to 30 days)

It is always recommended to check the visa requirements of your chosen destination before traveling, as they may vary and change over time.

8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in Bahrain?


The taxation system in Bahrain is based on citizenship, residency, and income. This means that citizens with two passports will be subject to different tax laws depending on their primary citizenship and residency status.

1. Citizenship: In Bahrain, citizens are taxed on their worldwide income, regardless of where they live or earn their income. This means that if someone holds dual citizenship with Bahrain as one of their countries, they will be required to pay taxes on their global income to the Bahraini government.

2. Residency: Non-citizens who reside in Bahrain for at least 183 days in a fiscal year are considered resident aliens and are subject to local taxes on all income earned within the country. This includes both foreign-sourced and locally-sourced income.

3. Income: The type of income also determines the level of taxation for dual citizens in Bahrain. For example, salary and wages are subject to a progressive tax rate of up to 28%, while dividend income is taxed at a flat rate of 10%.

It is important to note that Bahrain has double taxation agreements with many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, which prevent individuals from being taxed twice on the same income.

Additionally, individuals who hold two passports may also be eligible for certain tax relief or exemptions under these agreements.

In summary, the taxation system for dual citizens in Bahrain can vary depending on their citizenship, residency status, and type of income earned. It is recommended to consult with a tax specialist or accountant for specific advice on how your particular situation may be affected by these factors.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Bahrain?

There are currently no specific restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Bahrain. However, applicants must still meet certain eligibility criteria and their investments must contribute significantly to Bahrain’s economic development. Additionally, investments in sectors such as banking and finance, real estate, insurance, and media may require special approval from the relevant authorities.

10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Bahrain?


No, in Bahrain, individuals must renounce their current citizenship status before they can apply for a second passport. Dual citizenship is not allowed in Bahrain.

11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in Bahrain?


At this time, there are no known restrictions on citizens of specific countries from applying for a second passport in Bahrain. However, applicants must meet certain criteria and go through a thorough review process before being granted citizenship.

12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from Bahrain, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?


Yes, there are some additional benefits to holding a second passport from Bahrain, including:

1. Ease of travel: A second passport from Bahrain can provide visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to many countries, making travel more convenient.

2. Business opportunities: Holding a second passport from Bahrain could potentially open up new business opportunities and make it easier to conduct business in certain countries.

3. Access to investment options: Some countries offer special investment programs for citizens of certain countries, which may be accessible with a Bahraini passport.

4. Access to education and healthcare systems: As a citizen of Bahrain, you may have access to the country’s healthcare and education systems, which could provide better and more affordable options compared to those available in your home country.

5. Tax benefits: Certain countries offer tax incentives or treaties for foreign residents that could save you money on taxes if you hold a Bahraini passport.

6. Political stability and security: As a dual citizen, you may feel more secure knowing you have another country’s protection in case your home country experiences political instability or turmoil.

7. Property ownership rights: Holding a second passport may make it easier for you to buy property in certain countries and expand your investment portfolio.

It is important to note that the specific benefits will vary depending on the country you hold citizenship from and the rights associated with it. It is advisable to consult with immigration professionals or government agencies for further information on the specific advantages of holding a second passport from Bahrain.

13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Bahrain?


According to Bahrain’s Citizenship Law, there is no specific age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment. However, applicants must be at least 21 years old and of good character and reputation.

14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from Bahrain?


To start the process of obtaining a second passport from Bahrain, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Before you begin the process, make sure you are eligible for a second passport from Bahrain. Generally, this includes being a citizen of the country and having a valid reason for needing a second passport (e.g. frequent international travel, dual citizenship, etc.).

2. Gather necessary documents: The exact documents required may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the requirements of the Bahraini government. However, some basic documents that may be required include a copy of your current passport, proof of citizenship (such as birth certificate), proof of residence in Bahrain, and a letter explaining why you need a second passport.

3. Submit an application: You can obtain a second passport application form from the Ministry of Interior or download it from their website.

4. Fill out the application form: Make sure to fill out the application clearly and accurately. Any mistakes or missing information could delay the processing of your application.

5. Submit supporting documents: Along with your completed application form, you will need to submit all necessary supporting documents.

6. Pay fees: There is an application fee for obtaining a second passport in Bahrain. The exact amount varies depending on factors such as your citizenship status and whether you are applying for an expedited passport.

7. Submit your application: Once you have completed all the previous steps, submit your application along with all necessary documents and payment to the relevant authority (usually at the Ministry of Interior).

8. Wait for processing: It can take several weeks to several months for your request to be processed and approved by the Bahraini government.

9 Apply for visa/e-Visa when needed: If you plan to use your second passport for travel purposes, make sure to check if you need a visa or e-Visa for the countries you plan to visit.

10 Collect your new passport: Once your application has been processed and approved, you will be notified to collect your new passport from the relevant authority. Make sure to bring the necessary documents for collection.

11. Register with relevant authorities (if applicable): If you plan to use your second passport for travel purposes, make sure to register it with the relevant authorities (e.g. airlines, immigration services) before making any travel arrangements.

Note: The exact process and requirements for obtaining a second passport in Bahrain may vary depending on your specific circumstances. It is recommended to consult with the Ministry of Interior or a legal advisor for more information and guidance.

15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in Bahrain?

Yes, naturalized citizens can also apply for a second passport in Bahrain. The process and requirements are the same as for native-born citizens.

16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Bahrain?


Yes, proof of financial stability is typically required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Bahrain. The exact requirements may vary depending on the specific program, but applicants are generally expected to have a significant amount of funds available for investment in the country’s economy. This could include providing bank statements, investment portfolios or other evidence of liquid assets. Additionally, most programs require applicants to have a minimum net worth in order to be eligible. Overall, demonstrating financial stability is an important factor in the application process for investor programs in Bahrain and failure to meet the requirements could result in rejection of the application.

17. Are there any special regulations or requirements for individuals who have had previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Bahrain?


There are no specific regulations or requirements for individuals with previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Bahrain. However, the Ministry of Interior may conduct additional checks and investigations before issuing a new passport to such individuals. Additionally, the applicant’s criminal history may be taken into consideration during the application process.

18. Does possessing dual citizenship of Bahrain pose any complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries?

The possession of dual citizenship in Bahrain does not normally pose any complications when traveling between countries if you hold passports from both countries. However, some countries may have restrictions on dual citizenship and it is recommended to check with the respective embassies or consulates before traveling.

19.Is it possible to transfer my current residency status to my new country if I obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in Bahrain?


It is unlikely that you will be able to transfer your residency status to your new country through a dual citizenship obtained through an investor program in Bahrain. Every country has its own immigration and citizenship laws, and obtaining citizenship through investment does not guarantee automatic residency or immigration benefits in other countries. Additionally, each country has its own requirements and procedures for obtaining residency or permanent residence status. It is best to consult with the embassy or immigration authorities of your new country to determine the eligibility and processes for obtaining residency.

20.Can citizens of other countries living and working in Bahrain also apply for a second passport?


Yes, citizens of other countries living and working in Bahrain can also apply for a second passport. The process and requirements for obtaining a second passport may vary depending on their nationality, but they can typically do so through their embassy or consulate in Bahrain. Some countries also allow dual citizenship, which means that an individual can hold passports from two different countries simultaneously. However, it is important to note that the citizenship laws of both the home country and Bahrain must be followed when applying for a second passport.