Your Bahrain
Relocation Checklist
Everything you need to do before, during, and after moving to Bahrain — all in one place. Your progress is saved automatically in your browser.
Obtain the correct visa / entry permit
Most expats arrive on a visit visa then switch to a work visa sponsored by their employer (LMRA).
Sign and receive employment contract
Ensure contract specifies salary, accommodation allowance, ticket entitlement and notice period.
Arrange initial accommodation
Book a short-stay serviced apartment for your first few weeks while you find a longer-term rental.
→ Browse listingsGet medical fitness certificate (if required)
Some work visas require a fitness certificate from an approved clinic in your home country.
Obtain police clearance certificate
Required for most work visa applications. Must be attested and apostilled.
Attest qualifications & certificates
Educational and professional certificates need attestation from relevant ministries and the Bahraini embassy.
Arrange travel & health insurance for arrival
Until your employer-sponsored health card is issued, ensure you have personal cover.
Organise initial BHD currency & a travel card
Bahrain Dinar is pegged at 1 BHD ≈ 2.65 USD. Wise, Revolut and similar cards work well.
Apply for CPR Card (Central Population Register)
Required for almost everything in Bahrain — opening a bank account, getting a SIM, registering a car. Apply through NPRA.
Register with LMRA (work permit stamping)
Your employer will handle this. Ensure your passport is stamped with the residence permit.
Open a Bahraini bank account
Most banks (BBK, NBB, HSBC, Ahli United) require CPR, passport, and employment letter.
Get a local SIM card (Batelco, Zain or VIVA)
Local number is needed for banking OTPs, delivery etc. Bring CPR and passport to any store.
Convert your driving licence (if eligible)
Many nationalities can convert directly to a Bahraini licence at the Traffic Directorate. Check if yours qualifies.
Arrange transport (buy, lease or taxis)
Public transport is limited. Most expats buy or lease a car. Uber and taxis are also available.
→ Browse cars
Sign tenancy contract and register with RERA
All tenancy agreements should be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
Set up utilities (EWA electricity & water)
Transfer electricity and water to your name via the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) website.
Set up home internet
Batelco, Zain and VIVA all offer home fibre packages. Average speeds are good.
Explore your neighbourhood
Find the nearest supermarket, gym, pharmacy and hospital to your home.
→ Area guides
Sponsor dependants on family visa
You must meet a minimum salary threshold (varies by nationality). Process starts with LMRA.
Enrol children in school
Bahrain has a wide selection of international schools (British, American, IB). Waiting lists can be long — apply early.
Arrange pet import permits
Pets require a health certificate, vaccination records, and CITES paperwork. Plan 8–12 weeks ahead.
→ Pet services
Join an expat community or club
The British Club, Rugby Club, Hash House Harriers and many other groups welcome newcomers.
Register with a GP / polyclinic
Your health insurance card lets you use private hospitals. Register with a GP close to your home.
Understand your exit plan (when the time comes)
Bahrain has an annual exit visa system for some nationalities. Know your notice periods.
→ Exit Dashboard
Set up salary transfer to local account
Many landlords and utilities require a local bank account for direct debit.
Set up international money transfers
Wise, Western Union, and local exchange houses offer competitive rates.
Understand home country tax obligations
Bahrain has no income tax but your home country may still tax worldwide income. Check with an accountant.
Consider a Bahraini will for assets held here
Without a registered will, Bahraini Sharia law may apply to asset distribution.
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