Bahrain Citizenship

BAHRAIN
CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship laws are governed by the provisions of the Bahraini Nationality Law of
September 16, 1963. For information on persons born before September 16, 1963, contact the
Bahraini Embassy.
BY BIRTH:
Child born in territory of Bahrain after September 16, 1963, whose father is a citizen of
Bahrain (born and domiciled), provided the child does not have another nationality.
Child born in territory of Bahrain after September 16, 1963, of unknown parents.
BY DESCENT: Child born after September 16, 1963, whose father or grandfather was a
Bahraini citizen by birth.
BY NATURALIZATION: Bahraini citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following
conditions:
Person has lived continuously in Bahrain since September 16, 1963, for at least 25 years.
(15 years for person of Arab descent)
Person must be of good character, have a good command of Arabic, and have an estate
registered in his or her name in Bahrain.
Person must have acquired permission from the ruler of Bahrain.
DUAL CITIZENSHIP: NOT RECOGNIZED.
LOSS OF CITIZENSHIP: The ruler of Bahrain must approve loss of citizenship, either voluntary or
involuntary. Citizenship lost through involuntary means extends to the person's minor children.
VOLUNTARY: Bahraini law permits voluntary renunciation of citizenship. Contact Bahraini
Embassy for details and proper paperwork.
INVOLUNTARY: The following is grounds for involuntary loss of Bahraini citizenship: Person
has voluntarily acquired foreign citizenship.
ANY QUESTIONS concerning citizenship, or requests for renunciation of citizenship, should be
directed to the address below:
The Embassy of the State of Bahrain
Consular Section
3502 International Dr., NW
Washington, DC 20008
Embassy/Consular Telephone: 202-342-0741/42
Fax: 202-362-2192