Canada Visa RequirementsFor Bahrain passport holders
Bahraini nationals require a Canadian visitor visa (TRV) to enter Canada. Apply online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with a fee of approximately USD 100.
Bahrain passport holders require a visa to enter Canada.
Apply online at the IRCC portal (ircc.canada.ca). Biometrics enrollment is required for most applicants and can be done at the VFS Global center in Manama. Required documents include a valid Bahraini passport, completed application form, biometrics, recent passport photos, bank statements (last 6 months), employment letter, and proof of accommodation and travel itinerary. Processing takes 4 to 8 weeks on average.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Biometrics
Required at first application
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid Bahraini passport
Must be valid for the entire duration of stay in Canada and have at least 2 blank pages.
Online TRV application form (IMM 5257)
Completed Canadian visitor visa application form submitted through the IRCC online portal.
Biometrics enrollment
Fingerprints and photo taken at VFS Global Manama as part of the mandatory biometrics requirement.
Passport-sized photos
Recent digital or printed photos meeting Canadian photo specifications.
Bank statements
Last 6 months of personal bank statements showing adequate funds for the trip.
Employment letter
Letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, and approved leave.
Travel itinerary
Proposed or confirmed flight bookings and accommodation details in Canada.
Required at Entry
Approved TRV in passport
Present your Canadian visa at the port of entry alongside a valid Bahraini passport.
Current Travel Situation
Bahrain to Canada: What You Need to Know
Canada requires a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for Bahraini passport holders. The application is primarily done online through the IRCC portal. Canada is popular with Bahraini travelers for tourism, education, and family visits. Bahrain does not have a Canadian Embassy; the nearest is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
How to Get There
The United States requires a separate visa for Bahraini nationals and can be combined with a Canada trip. The UK grants visa-free access to Bahraini passport holders for up to 180 days.
Money & Banking
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). The Bahraini Dinar (BHD) is strong against CAD. Notify your bank before travel. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Canada. Currency exchange is available at airports and major banks.
Practical Tips
Enroll biometrics as early as possible as this is a mandatory step. Apply 8 to 12 weeks before your travel date during busy periods. Canada may grant multiple-entry visas valid for up to 10 years or passport validity, whichever is shorter. A strong application with clear evidence of ties to Bahrain improves approval chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bahraini passport holders need a visa for Canada?
Yes. Bahraini nationals must obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before traveling to Canada. This is also known as a Canadian visitor visa and is applied for online through the IRCC portal.
How much does a Canadian visitor visa cost for Bahraini applicants?
The Canadian TRV application fee is CAD 100, approximately USD 74 to 80. There is an additional biometrics fee of CAD 85 if you have not previously enrolled biometrics with Canada.
How long can Bahraini citizens stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
Canada allows stays of up to 6 months (180 days) on a visitor visa. The exact duration is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry.
Do I need biometrics for a Canadian visa application from Bahrain?
Yes. Most Bahraini applicants must enroll biometrics (fingerprints and photo) as part of the Canadian TRV application. This can be done at the VFS Global center in Manama.
How long does Canadian visa processing take for Bahraini applicants?
Processing typically takes 4 to 8 weeks. During peak periods (summer and holidays), it can take longer. Apply well in advance, ideally 10 to 12 weeks before your travel date.
Can Bahraini passport holders get a multiple-entry Canadian visa?
Yes. Canada may issue a multiple-entry TRV valid for up to 10 years or the validity of your passport, whichever is shorter. This is useful for frequent travelers.
Is there a Canadian Embassy in Bahrain?
There is no Canadian Embassy in Bahrain. Most applications are processed online through IRCC. Biometrics can be enrolled at VFS Global Manama.