ID Card

What is the ID card?

The Identity Card is the official identification document recognized by all governmental and non-governmental entities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Issued by the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA), it serves as a primary form of identification for both citizens and residents. The ID Card enables access to various services, including government transactions, banking, healthcare and more.

Additionally, key personal information is printed on both the front and back of the card, including a unique nine-digit personal number on the front. The card features a smart electronic chip that securely stores personal and biometric data, with key details such as name, personal number, and nationality.

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

Revamped ID Card

The Information & eGovernment Authority in line with the Kingdom's vision for digital transformation, introduced the new and revamped ID Card, designed with cutting-edge technology, enhanced security, durability, and usability while maintaining the highest international standards.

Key Features of the New ID Card:

• A modern design that reflects the Kingdom’s history, marine and land heritage.
• Made from polycarbonate, a durable material resistant to breakage, scratches, heat, and environmental factors.
• Laser-engraved printing for enhanced card sustainability.
• Fingerprint matching with the stored biometric data inside the electronic chip.
• Activation of travel applications and electronic signature keys (PKI) for identity verification.
• Compliance with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
• Fast and efficient ID card printing.

This initiative represents Bahrain’s commitment to enhancing digital government services and improving public sector efficiency.

New Self-Service Kiosks center

The Information & eGovernment Authority has launched a new Self-Service Kiosk Center for ID Card Chip updates, in addition to a number of eGovernment services, operating 24 hours, offering citizens and residents a convenient way to access key services at any time. Other kiosks available across multiple locations, get to know the locations and working hours via: Customer Service Centres & eKiosks Locations

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.