Bahamian Immigration Laws – Pre-Planning For Arrival

The Bahamas remains one of the most attractive countries in the world for anyone seeking to invest here or set up in business. The immigration and business lawyers at award-winning firm ParrisWhittaker advise wealthy individuals and entrepreneurs on immigration rules and procedures to ensure a smooth entry to The Bahamas.

However, immigration laws in The Bahamas can be complex and overwhelming. Anyone wishing to come to The Bahamas, whether on a temporary visa or to live, needs to understand the existing legal framework to avoid confusion further down the line.

We can help you with issues ranging from permanent residence and family sponsorship applications; to appeals and judicial review of failed or denied applications.

What are the main immigration rules in The Bahamas?

If you are thinking about relocating or conducting business in The Bahamas, you need to know the basic essential requirements – otherwise you run the risk of problems when interviewed on arrival.  The experienced immigration team at ParrisWhittaker will advise and support you in your plans to enter the country.

Passports: Most visitors must have a valid passport. However, UK citizens and other Commonwealth citizens, such as Canada, can rely on their national ID cards (if the relevant country uses them) if they only intend staying for less than 3 months (90 days). Note that passport cards are not enough.

You will also need a completed Bahamas Immigration Disembarkation/Embarkation Card; and completed customs and immigration forms setting out essential personal information and details about the purpose and length of stay.  We can assist you with this essential paperwork.

Visas – Depending on your nationality, you may not need a visa for short term visits of up to 3 months. For example, citizens from the UK, EU, US and Canadians do not generally need a visa.

Other nationalities need to check the requirements, depending on the intended length and purpose of their visit.

Residence permits: Anyone intending living and working in The Bahamas will need a residence permit – usually requiring sponsorship by a local employer. You will also need to provide evidence of financial means, a clean criminal record and other relevant documentation.

Permanent residency and citizenship – If you have enjoyed a significant period of residency (usually several years) and you are eligible, we can help you apply for permanent residency and citizenship.

Work permits: If you want to work in The Bahamas, a work permit will be necessary but don’t assume you can secure one. Work permits are generally restricted to those who can show they have skills currently in demand but which not readily available among Bahamian citizens.

Financial eligibility – Without a work permit, you will need to satisfy border control that you do not intend to engage in any gainful employment while in the country. You will also need to demonstrate you have sufficient financial means to support yourself while in The Bahamas, eg having a local sponsor.

Investor residency programs: Residency through investment programs are available but you will be required to make a significant financial investment in real estate or other approved sectors.

Extending your stay – You will appreciate the risks of overstaying beyond what has been permitted, so be mindful to think about applying to extend your stay well ahead of the time limit. Overstaying is a punishable offense in The Bahamas, and we can help you apply for a visitor extension before the time granted expires.

How can we help?

We are experienced in helping business clients and other individuals navigate the immigration rules and procedures of relocating to The Bahamas. We also work closely with embassies and consulates.

The requirements do change over time so we strongly recommend you speak with expert lawyers to mitigate any problems with your planned entry into the country – particularly if you have business obligations to attend to.

Contact ParrisWhittaker as early as you can on +1.242.352.6112