Planning to visit the United States from Bahrain? Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, family visits, or medical treatment, you will need a USA visit visa (B1/B2) before entering the country. The visa application process may seem complex, but with the right preparation, it becomes much easier.
In this guide, we will walk you through the eligibility criteria, required documents, visa fees, interview process, and key tips to help Bahrain residents successfully apply for a USA visit visa.
Types of USA Visit Visas for Bahrain Residents
If you are a Bahraini citizen or an expatriate living in Bahrain, you will need to apply for one of the following U.S. visit visas:
- B1 Visa (Business Visa): If you are traveling for business meetings, conferences, professional events, or negotiations.
- B2 Visa (Tourist Visa): If you are visiting for tourism, leisure, family visits, or medical treatment.
- B1/B2 Combined Visa: If your trip includes both business and leisure activities, you can apply for a B1/B2 visa, which covers both purposes.
This visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to six months per visit, but the actual duration is determined by the U.S. immigration officer upon arrival.
Eligibility Criteria for USA Visit Visa from Bahrain
To qualify for a USA visit visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
✔ Have a valid passport (with at least six months validity beyond the intended stay).
✔ Provide a valid reason for visiting the U.S.
✔ Show financial proof that you can afford the trip.
✔ Have strong ties to Bahrain (job, business, family, property).
✔ Have a clear travel history with no past visa violations.
✔ If you are an expatriate, you must have a valid Bahrain residence permit.
If you meet these criteria, you can proceed with the visa application process.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a USA Visit Visa from Bahrain
Step 1: Complete the DS-160 Online Application Form
The DS-160 form is a mandatory online application for all non-immigrant U.S. visa applicants.
✔ Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
✔ Select Bahrain as your application country.
✔ Enter your personal details, travel history, and purpose of visit.
✔ Upload a passport-size photograph (as per U.S. visa photo requirements).
✔ Submit the form and print the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Application Fee
The USA visit visa fee for Bahrain residents is $185 (approximately 70 Bahraini Dinars). The fee must be paid before scheduling your visa interview and is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied.
Payment Methods in Bahrain:
✔ Online Payment: Pay using Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card.
✔ Bank Deposit: Some banks in Bahrain allow applicants to pay the visa fee via bank deposit.
✔ Cash Payment: Certain designated locations may accept cash payments for visa fees.
Once the payment is made, you will receive a receipt, which is required for scheduling your visa interview.
Step 3: Schedule Your Visa Appointment
After completing the DS-160 form and paying the visa fee, the next step is to book your visa interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Manama, Bahrain.
Steps to Schedule an Interview:
✔ Create an account on the U.S. Visa Appointment System.
✔ Enter your DS-160 confirmation number.
✔ Choose an available interview date at the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain.
✔ Print your appointment confirmation letter.
It is recommended to schedule your interview well in advance, as appointment slots can fill up quickly.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Before attending your visa interview, make sure you have all the mandatory and supporting documents ready.
Mandatory Documents:
✔ Valid Passport – Must have at least six months of validity beyond your stay.
✔ DS-160 Confirmation Page – With barcode.
✔ Visa Appointment Confirmation Letter – Printed copy.
✔ Visa Fee Payment Receipt – Proof of payment.
✔ Recent Passport-Size Photograph – As per U.S. visa photo guidelines.
✔ Valid Bahrain Residence Permit (for expatriates).
Supporting Documents (Highly Recommended for Approval):
✔ Travel Itinerary – Flight and hotel bookings.
✔ Bank Statements (Last 6 Months) – To prove financial stability.
✔ Income Tax Returns (ITR) or Salary Slips – To show a stable income source.
✔ Letter of Invitation – If visiting family or friends in the U.S.
✔ Employment Letter – For working professionals.
✔ Business License – If self-employed.
✔ Property Ownership Documents – To prove strong ties to Bahrain.
Providing strong financial proof and evidence of ties to Bahrain will improve your chances of visa approval.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
The visa interview is the most important part of the application process. A U.S. consular officer will determine whether to approve or deny your visa.
Visa Interview Tips:
✔ Arrive Early: Be at the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain at least 30 minutes before your appointment.
✔ Dress Professionally: First impressions matter.
✔ Be Honest and Confident: Answer all questions clearly and truthfully.
✔ Bring All Required Documents: Even if not requested, having them is beneficial.
Common Visa Interview Questions:
- What is the purpose of your visit to the U.S.?
- How long do you plan to stay?
- Do you have relatives or friends in the U.S.?
- What do you do for a living in Bahrain?
- Who is sponsoring your trip?
- Do you have strong ties to Bahrain (job, family, business, property)?
If your responses are clear, consistent, and truthful, your chances of visa approval increase.
Step 6: Visa Decision & Passport Collection
At the end of the interview, the visa officer will inform you whether your visa is:
✔ Approved: Your passport will be kept, and you’ll receive your visa within 3-7 working days.
✔ Denied: You will be informed of the reason, and you may reapply if circumstances change.
✔ Under Administrative Processing: Some applications require further review, which may take weeks or months.
Once approved, your passport with the U.S. visa will be returned via courier or embassy pickup.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
✔ Weak Financial Proof – Insufficient funds to support your trip.
✔ Lack of Strong Ties to Bahrain – If you fail to prove that you will return after your visit.
✔ Unclear Travel Purpose – Inconsistent or vague answers.
✔ Incorrect or False Information – Any mistake can lead to rejection.
✔ Previous U.S. Visa Violations – Overstaying a past U.S. visa can affect approval.
To avoid rejection, ensure strong documentation and a well-prepared interview.
Conclusion
Applying for a USA visit visa from Bahrain requires careful preparation. From filling out the DS-160 form to attending the visa interview, every step plays a vital role in securing your visa. By ensuring you have all required documents, a clear travel purpose, and strong financial proof, you can increase your chances of approval and enjoy your trip to the United States!
Good luck with your visa application!
