Importing into Bahrain

Quick tips  Inventory must be accurate    You don't need to be in Bahrain during customs clearance    All books must be listed in detail  

All you need to know when shipping personal goods to Bahrain

To import household and personal possessions into Bahrain, log into your online account and complete the following documents:

• An inventory packing list accurately detailing everything in your shipment (ensuring any books mentioned include exact titles, genre, author, condition, etc.)
• Optional insurance to protect your shipment in the rare chance it suffers loss or damage.
• Clear scans of your passport picture and signature pages.

Please ensure your documents are accurate, as all shipments are subject to inspection by customs officials in Bahrain.

Importing personal belongings into Bahrain duty-free

Used household goods and personal items can be imported into Bahrain free from customs duties under the following conditions:

• You intend to make Bahrain your new place of residence.
• You are the owner of all items.
• You import your goods within six months of your arrival in Bahrain.
• You only import a small number of CDs, DVDs, LDs, and VCDs (large quantities will incur charges).
• Your items are for personal use, not commercial purposes.
• You have a valid Residence Permit with a Ministry stamp and QR code.
• You provide a clear copy of both sides of your Central Population Registry Card (CPR).

Any new items in your shipment are subject to 5% customs duty and 10% VAT.

Whether used or new, customs duty applies to personal computers and musical instruments (5%), and videos (roughly USD 0.55 per video). DVDs and magazines are subject to inspection by the Ministry of Interior for banned content.