Bahrain on Monday introduced a new permanent residency visa to attract talent and investment, part of a trend in Gulf states to offer more flexible and longer-duration visas amid regional economic competition.
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Foreigners in Gulf states have traditionally had renewable visas valid for just a few years tied to employment, limiting their stay.
The Golden Residency Visa will be renewed indefinitely, including the right to work in Bahrain, unlimited entry and exit, and residency for close family members.
The move is part of measures the small Gulf state is taking to resolve its heavily indebted finances. To qualify for the visa, a person must have resided in Bahrain for at least five years and earned an average salary of at least BHD 2000 ($5,306) per month.
Those who own properties above a certain value, as well as retirees and "highly talented" individuals who meet certain criteria will also qualify.
