ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS:  Passports and visas are required.  U.S. citizens may obtain a two-week visa for a fee upon arrival at the airport.  U.S. diplomatic passport holders receive a no-fee two-week visa.  Prior to travel, visitors may obtain five-year multiple entry visas valid for stays as long as one month from Bahraini embassies overseas.  Bahrain assesses heavy fines on visitors who fail to depart Bahrain at the end of their authorized stay.  The exact amount of the fine is determined by a formula related to the visa type, duration, and location of issuance.  An exit tax is included in the ticket price for flights out of Bahrain, and no additional exit fees are required upon departure.  Residents of Bahrain who intend to return must obtain a re-entry permit before departing.  For further information on entry/exit requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain, 3502 International Drive, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 342-1111; or the Bahrain Permanent Mission to the U.N., 2 United Nations Plaza, East 44th St., New York, N.Y. 10017, telephone (212) 223-6200.  

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are available in several hospitals and health centers in Bahrain.  Two government hospitals, several private hospitals, and numerous private clinics located throughout the country offer a wide range of medical services.  Cardiac care, general surgery, internal medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, orthopedics and dentistry services are readily available, as are x-rays, CT-scan and MRI testing.  The government hospitals house both trauma and ICU units.  Pharmacies are common throughout Bahrain and carry a wide range of medications.  Prescriptions are normally required.

Payment at all medical facilities is due at the time of service.  Some hospitals have limited direct billing capability for certain insurance carriers.  Billing and insurance practices vary among the medical facilities.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747)

MEDICAL INSURANCE:  The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.

REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION:  Americans living or traveling in Bahrain are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department website and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Bahrain.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.  The U.S. Embassy is located at Bldg. 979, Road no. 3119, Zinj District (next to Al Ahli Sports Club).  The mailing address is P.O. Box 26431, Manama, Bahrain.  The telephone number is (973) 1724-2700.  The after-hours number is (973) 1727-5126.  The Consular Section’s fax number is (973) 1725-6242.  The Embassy's website, which includes consular information and the most recent messages to the American community in Bahrain, is at http://bahrain.usembassy.gov.  The workweek in Bahrain is Sunday through Thursday.