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ID Card

What is the ID card?

The ID card is the official identity document recognized by all the governmental and non-governmental entities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is issued for citizens and residents by the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), which falls under the umbrella of the Ministry of Interior. The ID card is valid for 5 years from its time of issuance.

The card contains a number of technical and security features that prevent tampering, including a microchip that stores all the basic details of the individual. The front side of the card contains additional information, such as the 9-digit personal number, name, nationality, and country flag. The other side has the expiry date and other details. To access the stored data, a small device called a ‘card reader’ must be used to connect it to a computer.

The ID card is considered advanced due to its host of applications and uses. It includes the same data used in the individual’s passport, population registry, and driving license, in addition to the fingerprint, photo and signature of its holder.

In 2019, an updated version of the ID card was issued, unique for its modern design and use of advanced technologies, in line with the international standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

ID card uses:

  • Proof of individual’s identity and provides accurate personal details
  • Used when voting in parliamentary and municipal elections, in addition to the individual’s passport
  • Can be used to benefit from government services in the Kingdom of Bahrain
  • Travel document for Bahraini citizens traveling to other GCC countries
  • Allows access through eGates at airports

GCC citizen ID cards:

GCC residents and investors residing in the Kingdom can have ID cards issued provided they meet the following criteria:

  • Proof of residence in the Kingdom of Bahrain
  • Applicant must own a house or property in the Kingdom of Bahrain
  • Applicant must be an investor in the Kingdom of Bahrain
  • Female applicant must be the wife of a Bahraini citizen
  • Male applicant must be a husband to a Bahraini citizen or her children
  • Applicant must work or study at the Kingdom of Bahrain

Applicants who don’t meet the aforementioned requirements can still have their ID cards issued if they own a place rented under their name and are either not a permanent resident or make frequent visits the Kingdom. Once the GCC card data is activated at an ID card service center, its holder can access the same benefits in the Kingdom as those offered by the Bahrain ID card.