Bahrain passport → United States

United States visa for citizens of Bahrain

Embassy / VFSB-2 Tourist Visa

Citizens of Bahrain need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · B-2 Tourist Visa
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 180 days
Visa validity	3650 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Government fee	$185
Passport validity	At least 6 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Required
Onward or return ticket	Not required
Proof of funds	Bank statements showing sufficient funds for stay

How to apply

1
Complete DS-160 form online
Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application on the CEAC website and print the confirmation page with barcode.
2
Pay visa application fee
Pay the non-refundable MRV fee ($185) through the authorized bank or online system in Bahrain.
3
Schedule interview appointment
Book a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Manama via the online appointment system.
4
Prepare required documents
Gather all required documents including passport, photo, DS-160 confirmation, and financial evidence.
5
Attend visa interview at U.S. Embassy
Arrive in person at the scheduled time; submit documents and answer questions from consular officer.
6
Provide biometrics
Fingerprints and photograph taken as part of the interview process.
7
Wait for visa processing
Processing may take a few days to several weeks; status can be checked online.
8
Collect passport with visa
If approved, passport (with visa) will be returned via courier or pickup location.

Documents checklist

Travel

Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond stay)
Travel itinerary or return flight booking
Optional
Optional but recommended
Hotel reservation or invitation letter
Optional
Proof of accommodation in the U.S.

Financial

Fee payment receipt (MRV fee)
Pay $185 via authorized channels
Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Optional
To demonstrate sufficient funds

Employment

Employment letter or business license
Optional
To show ties to home country

Supporting

DS-160 confirmation page
Online nonimmigrant visa application
Appointment confirmation
Printed interview appointment letter
One passport photo (5x5 cm, white background)
Must meet U.S. visa photo requirements
Evidence of ties to Bahrain (e.g., property, family)
Optional
To demonstrate intention to return
Previous U.S. visas (if any)
Optional
Copies of old visas help establish travel history
DS-160 barcode page
Bring to interview
Valid residence permit if not a citizen of Bahrain
Optional
For non-Bahraini passport holders with Bahrain residence

Proof of funds

Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
Pay stubs
Tax returns

Must demonstrate ability to cover travel and stay expenses without working in the U.S.

Good to know

Visa issuance is not guaranteed; subject to consular discretion.
Apply well in advance as appointment slots may be limited in Bahrain.
Biometrics and interview are mandatory for most applicants aged 14-79.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient ties to Bahrain (risk of overstay)

Provide solid evidence of employment, family, property in Bahrain.

Inconsistent or incomplete application

Double-check all details on DS-160 and bring supporting documents.

Prior visa violations or criminal record

Declare any issues honestly; consult an attorney if needed.

FAQ

Do citizens of Bahrain need a visa for the United States?

Citizens of Bahrain need a visa for the United States and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: B-2 Tourist Visa.

How long can citizens of Bahrain stay in the United States?

Up to 180 days.

How much does the United States visa cost for citizens of Bahrain?

Government fee: $185.

What documents do citizens of Bahrain need for the United States?

Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond stay); DS-160 confirmation page; Appointment confirmation; One passport photo (5x5 cm, white background); Fee payment receipt (MRV fee); DS-160 barcode page; and 7 more depending on your situation.

How long must my passport be valid for the United States?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourist-visa.html

Sources

travel.state.gov

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