France Visa RequirementsFor Bahrain passport holders
Bahraini nationals require a Schengen visa to visit France. The EUR 80 visa permits up to 90 days of stay within the Schengen Area.
Bahrain passport holders require a visa to enter France.
Apply at the French Embassy in Manama or through VFS Global. The French Embassy in Bahrain also handles Schengen visa applications for several other Schengen countries if France is the primary destination. Documents required: valid Bahraini passport, Schengen application form, two photos, EUR 30,000 travel insurance, confirmed flights, hotel bookings, and bank statements. Processing: 15 working days.
France is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid Bahraini passport
At least 3 months validity beyond return date, minimum 2 blank pages.
Schengen visa application form
Completed and signed French Schengen application form.
Two passport photos
Meeting Schengen specifications.
Travel insurance
EUR 30,000 minimum Schengen coverage.
Round-trip flight bookings
Confirmed itinerary.
Hotel bookings
Confirmed accommodation for the full stay.
Bank statements
Last 3 to 6 months.
Employment or business proof
Employment letter or trade license.
Current Travel Situation
Bahrain to France: What You Need to Know
France is a Schengen Area member and requires Bahraini nationals to hold a valid Schengen visa. France is one of the most visited countries in the world and a perennial favorite for Bahraini travelers, offering Paris, the French Riviera, wine regions, and the Alps. The French Embassy in Manama directly accepts applications, making the process convenient.
How to Get There
Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, and Italy are neighboring Schengen countries easily combined with a France trip on the same visa.
Money & Banking
France uses the Euro (EUR). The Bahraini Dinar (BHD) is strong against the Euro. Credit cards are accepted everywhere in France. Paris is expensive; budget accordingly. Notify your bank before travel.
Practical Tips
France is Bahrain's most important Schengen consular partner in Manama. Apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before travel. Paris and the Riviera are peak in summer; the Loire Valley and Paris off-season are also excellent. Multiple-entry Schengen visas may be issued for frequent travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bahraini passport holders need a visa for France?
Yes. France is a Schengen member and Bahraini nationals require a Schengen visa. The French Embassy in Manama makes the application process convenient.
Is there a French Embassy in Bahrain?
Yes. The French Embassy is located in Manama and directly accepts Schengen visa applications from Bahraini residents. This is a major advantage compared to Schengen countries without a Manama presence.
How much does a French Schengen visa cost from Bahrain?
EUR 80, approximately USD 87. Non-refundable.
Can the French Embassy in Bahrain handle applications for other Schengen countries?
Yes, in some cases. If France is your main Schengen destination or first port of entry, the French Embassy in Manama can process your visa to cover travel to other Schengen countries.
How long does French Schengen visa processing take from Bahrain?
Approximately 15 working days. Apply 3 to 4 weeks in advance, or earlier during peak summer season.
What are the most popular destinations in France for Bahraini tourists?
Paris (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, shopping), the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes, Monaco), the Loire Valley for chateaux and wine, and the Alps for skiing in winter are top picks.
Can I use a French Schengen visa to visit Monaco?
Monaco is not a Schengen member but de facto applies Schengen rules. In practice, you can cross from France into Monaco without a border check. No separate visa is needed for a brief visit.