Guide to Residency in Bahamas

Obtaining a residency visa in Bahamas is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Bahamas gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research the types of residency options available
  • Permanent Residency: For individuals who wish to reside indefinitely in the Bahamas.
  • Annual Residency: For individuals who wish to reside for a year at a time, renewable annually.
  • Spousal Permit: For spouses of Bahamian citizens.
  • Work Permit: For individuals who have secured employment in the Bahamas.
• Check eligibility requirements
  • Ensure you meet the financial requirements for the type of residency you are applying for.
  • Prepare to provide proof of self-sufficiency or a job offer from a Bahamian employer.
  • Ensure you have a clean criminal record.
• Gather necessary documentation
  • Passport with at least six months validity.
  • Birth certificate.
  • Police certificate from your country of origin and any country you've lived in for the last five years.
  • Financial references, such as bank statements or a letter from your financial institution.
  • Medical certificate, including a negative HIV test result.
  • Proof of investment in the Bahamas (for permanent residency applicants).
  • Marriage certificate (if applying as a spouse).
  • Job offer or proof of business investment (if applying for a work permit).
• Apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
  • Visit the Bahamas government's Department of Inland Revenue website to access the TIN application form: Department of Inland Revenue.
  • Complete the application form with your personal details and contact information.
  • Submit the form along with any required supporting documents, such as a copy of your passport.
• Submit your residency application
  • Complete the residency application form, which can be obtained from the Bahamas Immigration Department or their website: Bahamas Immigration Department.
  • Attach all the required documents to your application form.
  • Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the type of residency.
  • Submit your application to the Department of Immigration in Nassau or the nearest Bahamian consulate.
• Wait for application processing
  • Be prepared to wait several months for your application to be processed.
  • Keep in touch with the Immigration Department for updates on your application status.
• Attend an interview (if required)
  • The Department of Immigration may request an interview to further assess your application.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your application and reasons for seeking residency.
• Receive your residency permit
  • If approved, you will receive a certificate of residency or a permit card.
  • Pay any additional fees required for the issuance of your residency permit.
• Renew your residency status as needed
  • For annual residency, remember to apply for renewal each year before your current permit expires.
  • Keep track of any changes in immigration policies that might affect your residency status.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the actual process may vary. It is important to consult with the Bahamas Immigration Department or a legal professional for the most current and detailed information regarding residency applications.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Bahamas?

"The Bahamas has both a visa and residency requirements for foreigners who wish to visit or stay. Visitors from certain countries must apply for a visa from a Bahamian embassy or online before traveling to the Bahamas; a valid passport is required for the visa application. To apply for a permanent residency, foreigners must submit a form to the Department of Immigration, along with a valid passport and supporting documents such as birth and marriage certificates. They are also required to pay the applicable residency fees and have their passport photograph taken. Applicants must also provide supporting documents that demonstrate financial stability, such as proof of income, and will be subject to a background check. Once approved, a resident’s permit is valid for five years and can be renewed," commented one member living in Bahamas.

"You must have a job to get a visa to live. The job must convince the government no Bahamanian can do your job before the residency/work visa is permitted. You can qualify for residency visa when you purchase a home for more than $350k-$500k. That number may vary depending on which island. this can be a very lengthy process," mentioned one expat living in Bahamas.