Bahrain has introduced a new 10-year renewable Golden Residency visa to attract investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees looking for long-term Gulf residence. Unlike old Gulf visas tied to employers, this visa allows full work freedom, including self-employment and business ownership. Residents can sponsor spouses, children, and parents, with no minimum stay needed to keep residency. The property investment route now requires owning real estate worth at least BHD 130,000 (approx USD 345,000), down from BHD 200,000. Bahrain’s programme also welcomes exceptional talent like entrepreneurs, researchers, artists, and athletes based on their contributions rather than investment. Retirees can qualify with pensions starting at BHD 2,000 monthly for residents and BHD 4,000 for non-residents. All applicants must be 21 or older, healthy, hold a valid passport, and have a clean record. This visa supports Bahrain’s Vision 2030 goal to diversify beyond oil by creating a stable, affordable, and expat-friendly business hub. Bahrain offers zero personal income tax, lower living costs than UAE and Saudi Arabia, and strong safety rankings. Its expat population is over half, with many international schools available. While the Golden Residency grants long-term stability, Bahrain does not provide citizenship by investment, keeping naturalisation selective. The visa is ideal for those seeking a Gulf base with lower costs, flexible work options, and family inclusion without the usual visa constraints. Bahrain’s welcoming environment, tax advantages, and access to the Gulf region make this golden visa a competitive choice for long-term stays compared to other GCC countries.