CPR Bahrain is the most crucial document you’ll need in the Kingdom. Whether you’re moving to Bahrain for work, family, or business, understanding your CPR card is essential. CPR stands for Central Population Register, and it serves as your official national identification in Bahrain. 

Every resident requires this smart card to access healthcare, open a bank account, secure employment, and utilize government services. But what exactly is a CPR number? How do you apply for your first card? What documents do you need? 

This comprehensive guide provides clear and straightforward answers to all your questions about CPR Bahrain. We’ll also cover the differences between citizen and expatriate CPR cards. By the end, you’ll understand everything needed to obtain and maintain your CPR Bahrain successfully.

What is CPR Number in Bahrain? 

Understanding CPR Bahrain starts with knowing what these letters represent. CPR is your gateway to living and working in the Kingdom. Let’s explore the fundamentals of this crucial identification system in detail.

Definition: What CPR Stands For

CPR means Central Population Register in Bahrain. It’s the national identification system for all legal residents. The system was established in 1984 under Decree No. 9.

The Information & eGovernment Authority manages the entire CPR system. This government body is commonly known as iGA. The iGA was formed in October 2015 through Royal Decree No. 69.

The authority operates service centers across Bahrain for the convenience of its customers. You can contact iGA through their National Contact Center at 80008001. Service hours are Sunday through Thursday, 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

Who Needs a CPR in Bahrain

Every legal resident in Bahrain is required to have a CPR card. This includes both citizens and expatriates living in the Kingdom.

People who need CPR:

• Bahraini citizens from birth onwards
• Expatriate workers with valid work visas
• Family members on dependent visas
• Investors with investor visas
• Students studying in Bahrain
• GCC nationals working in Bahrain

People who don’t need CPR:

• Tourist visa holders visiting temporarily
• Short-term visitors on visit visas

Bahraini newborns receive CPR automatically after birth. The hospital registers the baby in the system immediately. Parents receive their child’s CPR number within two to four weeks.

Your Bahraini CPR Number: Format and Structure

Every resident receives a unique identification number with their CPR. Understanding what the CPR number in Bahrain means helps you use it correctly.

The 9-Digit CPR Number Format

Your CPR number contains exactly nine digits. Each digit position has a specific meaning. The format follows this structure: YYMMNNNNC.

CPR Number Breakdown:

Your CPR number is permanent throughout your residency. The number remains the same, even after you renew your card. This permanence ensures consistency across all government databases. The number appears prominently on the front of your card. You’ll use this number frequently for service verifications.

Bahrain CPR Details and Features

The physical CPR card is a sophisticated smart card. The 2025 version includes the latest security and technology features.

Card Specifications and Design

The new CPR card is made from polycarbonate material, not plastic. Bahrain CPR details make it highly durable and resistant to breakage. The card meets International Civil Aviation Organization standards for global recognition.

The design celebrates Bahrain’s rich maritime and cultural heritage. Beautiful motifs represent 3,000 years of history. The Bahrain Vision 2030 logo appears prominently on the card.

Information on Your Card

Front Side displays:

• Full name in Arabic and English
• Nine-digit CPR number
• Date of birth and nationality
• Photograph and signature
• Card issue and expiry dates
• National flags

Embedded Chip contains:

• Biometric fingerprint data
• Complete passport information
• Blood type and medical data
• Driving license information
• Employment and address details

The card includes contactless NFC technology for quick scanning. You can tap your card at readers for instant verification. The 2025 card consists of an activated travel application for enhanced mobility.

CPR for Citizens vs Expatriates

Bahrain CPR requirements differ based on your nationality status. Understanding these differences helps you manage your card correctly.

CPR for Bahraini Citizens

Citizens receive automatic CPR registration at birth. The CPR number is permanent for a lifetime. Card validity is 5 years for individuals under 70 years of age. People aged 70 and above get 10-year validity cards.

Citizens can renew their CPR certification independently at any time before it expires. Bahraini citizens can travel within GCC countries using CPR only. This works even if their passport has expired.

CPR for Expatriate Residents

Expatriates receive CPR after entering Bahrain with a valid visa. The CPR validity links directly to residence permit validity. When the visa expires, the CPR also becomes invalid.

All expatriates need a sponsor to obtain a CPR. Work visa holders have employer sponsorship. Family visa holders get sponsorship from their family member. Investors can self-sponsor through their business registration.

Expatriate CPR renewal requires visa renewal first. You cannot renew an expired CPR without a valid visa. The process also requires a new medical fitness certificate.

How to Obtain CPR in Bahrain

Getting your first CPR Bahrain card involves several straightforward steps. Following the correct process ensures smooth and quick issuance.

Step 1: Enter with a Valid Residence Visa

You must enter Bahrain with an approved residence visa. Only residence permit holders are eligible to apply for CPR cards. Your visa must be stamped clearly in your passport.

Step 2: Complete Medical Examination

All new residents are required to undergo a mandatory health screening. This occurs only at government-approved medical centers. The examination costs approximately BD 20 to BD 30.

Medical tests include blood work, chest X-rays, and physical examination. Results are typically available within two to three working days. You receive a medical fitness certificate valid for three months.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Gathering all documents required for CPR in Bahrain is crucial. Having everything ready significantly speeds up the application process.

Essential Documents:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Residence visa stamped in passport
• Medical fitness certificate from an approved center
• Four passport-sized photographs (4.5cm x 3.5cm, white background)

Additional documents based on visa type:

• Work Visa: Employment contract, sponsor letter, company CR
• Family Visa: Sponsor’s CPR, marriage/birth certificates
• Investor Visa: Company registration, business documents

All foreign documents need proper attestation from the relevant authorities. Documents in other languages require certified Arabic or English translation. This is especially important if you’re handling company formation matters in Bahrain.

Step 4: Book Your CPR Bahrain Appointment

Scheduling your CPR Bahrain appointment online is simple. Visit www.bahrain.bh or use the MyGov mobile app. Create an account and navigate to Identity Card Services. Select “Issue New ID Card” and fill out the application form. Upload scanned copies of all required documents. Choose your preferred appointment date and service center location.

Step 5: Attend Your Appointment

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all original documents. The officer will verify your documents and collect biometric data. This includes fingerprints from all ten fingers and a digital photograph.

Pay the required fees using cash or card. The entire appointment takes 30 to 45 minutes. You receive a receipt with an estimated collection date.

Step 6: Card Collection

Standard processing takes five to ten working days. You receive an SMS notification when your card is ready for pickup. Collect your documents from the same service center, along with your passport and receipt.

Verify immediately:

• Name spelling in both languages
• Date of birth accuracy
• CPR number correctness
• Photograph quality
• Expiry date

Home delivery is available for an additional BD 1 fee.

CPR Fees (2025):

• First-time issuance (expatriates): BD 5
• Children under 10: BD 1
• Bahraini citizens: Free
• Home delivery: BD 1

Essential Uses of Your CPR Bahrain

Your CPR Bahrain card unlocks access to virtually every service. Understanding its uses highlights its critical importance on a daily basis.

Banking and Financial Services

No bank opens accounts without valid CPR verification. Every financial transaction requires a corresponding record in the system. This includes credit cards, loans, mortgages, and investments.

The Labour Market Regulatory Authority mandates CPR for salary transfers. All expatriate workers receive salaries through registered bank accounts.

Healthcare and Education

Public healthcare enrollment depends entirely on CPR registration. Hospital admissions and treatments require CPR for records. Your medical history links to your CPR across all facilities.

School enrollment for children requires CPR from parents and students. University applications need a valid CPR for registration. Academic records are tracked through CPR across institutions.

Employment and Business

Every employment contract in Bahrain requires your CPR number. The LMRA tracks work permits through CPR. If you’re involved in company formation in Bahrain, your CPR is essential. Business registration requires CPR for all shareholders and directors. Commercial Registration applications need CPR for authorized signatories.

Utilities and Services

Mobile phone SIM cards are required to be registered by CPR by law. Internet connections, electricity, and water services need CPR. The Electricity and Water Authority requires CPR for all connections.

Property registration and rental agreements require CPR verification. Driving license applications need a valid CPR as a prerequisite. Vehicle registration requires CPR from both parties.

Checking Your CPR Bahrain Status

Verifying your CPR Bahrain check status online is a convenient option. The government provides several digital verification methods.

Online Verification Methods

• bahrain.bh Portal: Log in with eKey credentials and navigate to Identity Card Services. Enter your CPR number or passport number. Your current status appears instantly on the screen.
• MyGov App: Download from App Store or Google Play. Select CPR Services and check the status. View comprehensive details, including validity dates.
• LMRA Portal: Expatriates can verify legal work status at www.lmra.bh. Enter your CPR number to view employment information.
• SMS Service: Batelco users, text ‘CPR’ to 90168. Zain users send CPR to 77070. You receive instant status confirmation.
• Self-Service Kiosks: Available at service centers for free checking. The Isa Town center operates 24/7 for your convenience.

Common CPR Issues and Solutions

Knowing how to solve common issues saves time and stress.

Lost or Stolen Card

File a police report immediately at the nearest station. Contact iGA at 80008001 to suspend your card. Apply for replacement online through bahrain.bh or MyGov. The replacement fee is BD 10 for the first-time replacement. Book a new CPR Bahrain appointment for biometric verification. Processing takes five to seven working days.

Damaged Card

Visit an iGA service center with your damaged card. Submit a replacement application with new photographs. No police report needed for damaged cards. The replacement fee is BD 5 for damage cases. Some centers offer same-day replacement if available.

Incorrect Information

Check your card within three days of receiving it. Free corrections available within this window. Visit the issuing center with supporting documents immediately. After three days, fees apply, and processing takes longer. Bring a passport, birth certificate, and proof of documents.

Expired Card

Expired CPR blocks access to banking and government services. For expatriates, it creates complications with visa renewals. Visit iGA immediately with an expired card and new photographs. Pay renewal fee plus late penalties. 

For detailed guidance on renewals, see our comprehensive CPR Bahrain renewal guide. The CPR Bahrain renewal process differs for citizens and expatriates.

Renewal Penalties:

• 1-30 days late: BD 5-10
• 31-90 days late: BD 20-50
• Over 90 days: BD 100+

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Your CPR Bahrain card is the foundation of life in the Kingdom. It connects you to healthcare, banking, employment, and essential services. Understanding the application process ensures smooth issuance. Keep your card safe and renew before expiration. 

Use available services through Bahrain.bh and the MyGov app. Start gathering the required documents today. Your successful life in Bahrain begins with your CPR card.

PI Startup Advisory provides comprehensive support for CPR and visa processing. We’re authorized by Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce with six years of experience. Contact us for expert assistance with CPR applications, business setup, and complete relocation services.