Buying Property in Bahrain
Know the Facts
Buying property in Bahrain is a straightforward process with strong legal protections for buyers. Once you receive permission to purchase, the title deed is transferred into your name, securing your ownership rights.
Title Deed Transfer Fees
✅ 2% of the total purchase price for both new and resale properties
✅ Discounted to 1.7% if paid within 60 days of registration
💡 Tip for Overseas Buyers: It’s recommended to seek independent legal assistance to ensure a smooth transaction.
Can Expatriates Buy Property in Bahrain?
Yes! Under Legislative Decree 2 (2001) and Edict No. 43 (2003) (amended by Edict No. 67 of 2006), expatriates, resident foreigners, and GCC nationals can buy freehold properties in designated areas.
Where Can Expats Buy Property?
Expatriates can own freehold properties in specific reclaimed land areas, including:
🏡 Residential Freehold Zones:
- Juffair
- Seef
- Amwaj Islands
- Reef Island
- Durrat Marina
- Durrat Al Bahrain
- Riffa Views (all-villa development)
- Al Areen (residential community)
💡 Note: Foreign ownership is restricted to specific areas and must comply with government regulations on land use.
Self-Sponsorship Residence Permit
As a freehold property owner, you are entitled to a Self-Sponsorship Residence Permit, which:
✅ Grants lifetime residency, renewable every 2-5 years
✅ Allows you to sponsor your spouse and children under 18
✅ Enables you and your spouse to enter/exit Bahrain without a return visa
Eligibility for a Residence Permit
✅ Minimum property value: BHD 50,000
✅ The property must be in a designated freehold area
✅ Mortgage allowed if financed by a Bahrain-licensed bank
Documents Required for Residence Permit
1. Retired Expatriates:
- 📝 Service request form
- 🛂 Passport & ID copies
- 🏠 Tenancy agreement copy
- 📜 Retirement certificate (min. 15 years of service, GCC or Bahrain-based)
- 🏥 Valid health insurance certificate
- 💰 Proof of monthly income (minimum BHD 500)
2. Expatriates Who Own Property in Bahrain:
- 📝 Service request form
- 🛂 Passport & ID copies
- 🏠 Certified property ownership document (value ≥ BHD 50,000)
- 🏥 Valid health insurance certificate
- 💰 Proof of monthly income (minimum BHD 500)
- 📍 Property must be in a designated touristic zone (e.g., Juffair, Amwaj, Riffa Views, etc.)
3. Expatriate Investors:
- 📝 Service request form
- 🛂 Passport & ID copies
- 📜 Certified company memorandum (investment ≥ BHD 100,000)
- 🏠 Tenancy agreement copy
- 🏥 Valid health insurance certificate
- 💰 Proof of monthly income (minimum BHD 500)
🚫 Note: Applicants must not be employed in Bahrain’s public or private sector.
Applying for a Residence Permit
You can apply for a residency permit through the Nationality, Passports & Residence Affairs (NPRA) portal:
🌐 NPRA Official Website
Why Invest in Bahrain?
✅ Strategic location – Gateway to the GCC
✅ Strong legal protections for property buyers
✅ Tax-free living with no income tax
✅ High rental yields & strong resale market
✅ Residency benefits for property owners
Bahrain offers great opportunities for expatriates and investors looking for stable property ownership with residency benefits. Whether you’re buying for investment or as a home, now is the perfect time to explore Bahrain’s real estate market!
🔹 Need expert guidance? Let OKA Real Estate assist you in finding your perfect home today!