United Kingdom Tourist Visa
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) · For Bahrain citizens
Planning a trip to the UK as a Bahraini citizen? From January 2025, 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.
UK Tourist Visa for Bahraini Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For Bahrain citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your Bahraini passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK
A recent digital photograph for your ETA application
Valid email address to receive your ETA confirmation
Credit or debit card for the £16 fee
Information about your reason for visiting the UK
Application Process
The UK ETA is a quick online application.1 Here is how to apply:
1. Download the UK ETA App or Use the Website
Apply through the official “UK ETA” app (iOS/Android) or at gov.uk.1 The app is faster and easier for most applicants.
2. Create an Account
Set up an account with your email address. You will use this to track your application and receive updates.1
3. Enter Your Details
Provide the following information:1
- Passport details (number, expiry date, country of issue)
- Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
- Contact details
- Basic questions about criminal history and immigration
4. Upload a Photo
Take or upload a passport-style photograph.1 The app can guide you through taking an acceptable photo with your smartphone.
5. Pay the Fee
Pay £16 using a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment.1 The fee is non-refundable.
6. Receive Your ETA
You will receive an email when your ETA is approved.1 The ETA is linked electronically to your passport. You do not need to print anything.
Fees
| 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:1
- 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
Unlike a traditional visa, you do not need to provide financial documents or detailed travel plans for the ETA.
Processing Times
Most ETA applications are decided within 3 working days.1 Many receive approval within 24 hours.
Processing may take longer if:1
- Additional security checks are required
- Information in your application needs verification
- You have a complex immigration history
Apply at least one week before your planned travel date to ensure you have time to receive your ETA.1
ETA Validity
Once approved, your ETA is valid for:1
- 2 years from the date of issue, OR
- Until your passport expires, whichever comes first
During this period, you can:
- Make unlimited visits to the UK
- Stay up to 6 months per visit
- Use it for tourism, business, visiting family, or short courses
If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
After Your ETA is Approved
Your ETA is linked electronically to your passport.1 At the airport:
- Check-in: Airlines can verify your ETA electronically
- Boarding: No paper documents needed for ETA
- UK Immigration: Present your passport. Your ETA is in the system.
At UK immigration, officers may ask about:
- Purpose of your visit
- Length of stay
- Accommodation arrangements
- Return travel plans
If Your ETA is Refused
If your ETA application is refused:1
- Review the refusal reason in your email
- Apply for a Standard Visitor Visa if eligible. This requires:
- More detailed application
- Supporting documents
- Visit to a visa application centre
- Higher fee (£127)
- Longer processing time (3 weeks)
You cannot appeal an ETA refusal, but you can apply for the Standard Visitor Visa as an alternative route.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Criminal Record
Previous criminal convictions, especially for serious offences, can result in ETA refusal.
How to avoid: Disclose any convictions honestly in your application. Minor offences may not disqualify you.
Previous Immigration Violations
History of overstaying or breaking immigration rules in the UK or other countries.
How to avoid: Be honest about past issues. A previous refusal does not automatically mean another rejection.
Incorrect Information
Errors in passport details, name spelling, or other application information.
How to avoid: Double-check all details match your passport exactly before submitting.
Security Concerns
Flagged for security reasons during background checks.
How to avoid: If refused for security reasons, you may need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa instead.
Ineligible Passport
Using a non-biometric or ineligible passport type.
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 2025, 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.