Build a successful business in the strategic hub of the Persian Gulf
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Business immigration to Bahrain offers foreign entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to obtain a residence permit after registering a company in one of the most business-friendly tax jurisdictions in the world. The program grants resident status immediately for 2 years with the right of renewal.
When starting a business in Bahrain, entrepreneurs gain access to: full exemption from corporate income tax, VAT of 10% only on turnover exceeding USD 99,472, and the possibility of 100% foreign ownership in most business sectors.
Residents of Bahrain do not pay personal income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or property tax. Corporate tax is 0% for most types of activity, except in the oil and gas sector.
Resident status extends to a spouse and children under 18. The ability to sponsor company employees simplifies the recruitment of qualified staff for business development.
Bahrain’s banking system ensures a high level of confidentiality in financial transactions, with no currency controls or restrictions on capital transfers.
Access to corporate and private banking services in international banks with impeccable reputations. The ability to manage assets in a stable currency zone.
Bahraini resident status provides simplified visa arrangements with many countries worldwide, including visa-free access to Gulf Cooperation Council states.
Bahrain is a recognized center of Islamic banking and finance in the Middle East, offering access to innovative financial instruments and investment opportunities.
Its geographic position ensures easy access to the markets of Gulf Cooperation Council countries, with a combined GDP of over USD 1.6 trillion.
Modern transport, telecommunications, and social infrastructure. High-quality education and healthcare for residents and their families.
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Bahrain is the region’s first business center, home to offices of leading international banks (Gulf International Bank, Al Ahli United Bank, National Bank of Bahrain) and investment companies (Investcorp, GFH Financial Group, Awalco Investment Company), providing access to modern financial instruments.
Bahrain’s central position among Gulf countries ensures fast access to the markets of the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council).
Bahraini legislation allows the establishment of companies in most economic sectors with 100% foreign ownership and without the need for regional partners.
The government of Bahrain has introduced measures to reduce and streamline bureaucratic procedures, enabling faster issuance of business licenses to foreign investors.
Companies are exempt from corporate income tax, capital gains tax, and personal income tax, creating a business-friendly environment for international operations.
Bahrain is served by a modern international airport and the major Khalifa Bin Salman Port, ensuring efficient logistics.
The population of Bahrain is well educated and fluent in English, supporting the growth of foreign businesses and the introduction of innovation.
Bahrain shows steady economic growth with a diversified economy, where the financial sector has overtaken oil and gas as the main contributor to GDP.
The most popular form, allowing the creation of a flexible corporate structure with minimal administrative requirements and full control over the business.
Corporate structure for large enterprises planning to actively attract investments, go public, or undertake large-scale projects.
An optimal solution for medium and large family businesses, holding structures, and companies that do not plan to go public but require corporate status.
A sole proprietorship offering full control over the business and maximum flexibility in decision-making. Suitable for professional services, consulting, and small trading operations.
A leading iWorld specialist will conduct a detailed analysis of your business goals and select the optimal strategy for obtaining a Bahrain residence permit through company registration. Lawyers will determine the most suitable legal form, taking into account the specifics of your business, the size of your investment, and your long-term development plans.
Once the business plan has been approved, the company's lawyers will begin the process of registering the company with the Bahrain Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism. The company's specialists will prepare a complete set of founding documents, including the memorandum and articles of association, reserve the corporate name, and ensure that a commercial license is obtained.
Upon completion of the company registration, the company's team will arrange a three-month investor visa to enter Bahrain. An iWorld representative will organize all the necessary procedures, including opening a corporate bank account and submitting documents for a residence visa.
After passing a medical examination and submitting biometric data to the Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA), you will receive a 2-year residence visa. The company's specialists will provide support at all stages. Resident status will allow you to freely cross the borders of Bahrain and apply for a residence permit for your family members.
The iWorld team provides full support for business activities in Bahrain: accounting, tax reporting, license and residence visa renewals, as well as advice on business expansion and tax optimization.
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Learn moreBahrain allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors of the economy, including trade, IT services, consulting, manufacturing, financial services, real estate, and tourism. Restrictions apply only to certain activities, such as fishing, some forms of retail trade in the local market, and specific licensed professions.
Yes, personal presence in Bahrain is mandatory for undergoing a medical examination, submitting biometric data, and receiving a residence visa. However, the entire company registration process can be completed remotely before your arrival.
The process takes from 14 days, depending on the chosen type of company and the complexity of the business structure.
For registration: passports of all founders, police clearance certificates with apostille, educational diplomas (for licensed activities), bank statements confirming financial standing, and a business plan. For the residence visa: medical certificates, photographs in the required format, and marital status documents.
A corporate bank account can be opened only after obtaining the company’s commercial registration and license. The process usually takes 1–2 weeks and requires the personal presence of the company’s director or an authorized representative.
Bahrain has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Corporate tax is 0% for most activities. VAT is applied at 10% for companies with annual turnover exceeding USD 99,472.
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