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Parsing through the details and facts of Bahamas visa requirements can bring up confusion and stress for any traveler. Fortunately, The Bahamas allow visitors from many countries to visit without a visa for less than 90 days, and their visa requirements beyond that timeline are fairly straightforward. With an online portal and plenty of guidance online, you can easily get ahead on Bahamas visa requirements and complete all necessary items for a smooth trip.
The expert team at MCR Bahamas consists of born and bred Bahamians with a deep knowledge of every beautiful island. We’re here to guide you through getting a visa for The Bahamas, and help you get settled in your ideal Bahamas home. MCR Bahamas is the go-to brokerage for luxury real estate in The Bahamas thanks to our 40 years of local industry experience and more than $2 billion in represented sales. Our deep knowledge of the area allows us to help you find the ideal island and property for your unique preferences.
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Does The Bahamas Require a Visa?
The Bahamas requires a visa only for stays longer than 90 days or for citizens of specific countries. Citizenships that require a Bahamas visa to enter the country include India, Haiti, Guinea, Egypt, Lebanon, Thailand, and Morocco.
Additionally, all visitors need a visa if they plan to stay longer than 90 days or if they intend to work while in The Bahamas.
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Bahamas Visa Processing Time
In most cases, the turnaround time for a Bahamas visa is only about two weeks. However, processing time can vary based on your home country and embassy details. For example, those applying at a British Embassy need to submit their application at least four weeks before traveling.
Leave yourself plenty of time to complete the full Bahamas visa process. Especially if you’re traveling for an event with a set date like a wedding in The Bahamas, leave ample time to communicate with the embassy and confirm your entry.
Depending on your location in relation to your nearest Bahamian consulate or embassy, this process may require travel and significant time investment, so plan accordingly and consider a Bahamas rental property for your stay.
Bahamas Visa Cost
Bahamas visa fees vary based on the length and type of stay. The most common visa fees are as follows without biometric data features:
- Multiple entry visa for up to 1 year: $110
- Multiple entry visa for up to 3 years: $500
- Single entry visa: $110
- Seaman’s visa: $110
General Policy for Bahamas Visa
Every situation is unique, and your visa needs will depend on the length of your stay and your goals while in The Bahamas. For example, you can work or attend school in The Bahamas for up to one year through the BEATS (Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay program), which can be renewed for a total of a three-year stay. Those staying in The Bahamas for longer than three years will need to apply for a Permanent Residence Permit.
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U.S. Citizens
U.S. Citizens do not need a visa to visit The Bahamas if their stay is shorter than three months, but need a valid passport to enter.
U.S. Permanent Residents (Non-Citizens)
U.S. permanent residents don’t need a visa, but they should be prepared to show additional paperwork to enter The Bahamas. These items include:
- Sufficient funds to finance their trip
- Valid green card
- Tickets for departure from The Bahamas
- Travel documents valid six months after their departure date (passport from country of origin)
- Proof of accommodation
Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens only need a valid passport for a visit to The Bahamas lasting three months or less.
Canadian Permanent Residents
Canadian permanent residents must present the same documentation as U.S. permanent residents to visit The Bahamas. They also do not need visas.
Latin American Citizens
Citizens of Latin America who are visiting The Bahamas for less than three months do not need a visa. They only need to present a valid passport.
Other Countries
Citizens from some countries do need a visa to visit The Bahamas. These countries include:
- Philippines
- Central African Republic
- Nepal
- Afghanistan
- Albania
- Libya
- Bosnia
- Cameroon
- Algeria
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs keeps a full list of these countries on their website.
Types of Bahamas Visas
Various types of visas are available depending on whether you plan to visit, work, study, or gain citizenship in The Bahamas. Learn about the different types of visas to understand which option best aligns with your goals.
1. Tourist Visa
Citizens from the U.S., Canada, and many other countries don’t need a tourist visa to visit The Bahamas, but for those who do, the application process is fairly straightforward.
How to Apply:
- Print and fill out the application form in block letters
- Gather supporting documents including itineraries, passports, passport photos, and job letters
- Appear in person at a consulate or embassy
- Wait two weeks for application approval
2. Business Visa
If you want to work and live in The Bahamas for less than 90 days, you’ll need a short-term work permit. These are meant for emergency situations such as visiting repair mechanics needed for work on equipment.
How to Apply:
The application process and requirements for short-term work permits vary based on the length of your stay. You can apply for the permit online through the Department of Immigration Portal.
All applicants, including those staying up to 30 days, must:
- Pay a $200 processing fee
- Send a Letter of Request to the Director of Immigration
- Complete an application form
- Send the following documentation:
- Two passport photos taken within six months of the application date
- A copy of the biographical information page of the passport
- A copy of the valid business license, Certificate of Incumbency, or Certificate of Incorporation of Employer
- A copy of the employee/employer’s NIB card or certificate
Those planning to stay 31-90 days must also submit:
- The First Schedule Form 1 Application with a Bahamian stamp
- An original police certificate
- A medical certificate
Depending on your company and occupation, you may need to submit additional documentation such as letters of authorization.
3. Work Permit and Long-Term Visa
If you plan to work in The Bahamas for longer than 90 days, you’ll need a long-term work permit. You can apply online or by mail.
How to Apply:
To apply for a long-term work permit, you need to submit all of the same documents as you would for a short-term work permit. Additionally, you’ll submit:
- A copy of the biographical data page of your employer or sponsor’s passport
- Evidence of your employer or sponsor’s immigration status if they are not Bahamian
- A Labour Certificate with Notification of Vacancy from the Department of Labour in The Bahamas
- Nationally circulated newspaper advertisements spanning three consecutive days
- Written references from two previous employers
- A letter of release from your previous employer
About eight weeks after submitting your online application or mailing in your documents, you can check with the Consultation Unit at 604-0241/2 to receive an update.
4. Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS)
If you have a remote job or attend school virtually, you’re a perfect match for the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) program. This program allows you to work or study in The Bahamas for up to one year, with no minimum length of stay.
How to Apply:
- Complete the online application
- Pay the $25 application fee
- Submit proof of medical insurance, proof of employment, and evidence of enrollment
- Wait the five-day processing time
- Watch for an email with further instructions
Whether you’re studying or working, you need a serene and picturesque environment to help you make the most of your time in The Bahamas. Work with MCR Bahamas to find the perfect accommodations for your lifestyle and goals. Browse our listings today!
Customs Requirements Upon Arrival in The Bahamas
Whether you arrive by public or private plane to The Bahamas, all travelers entering The Bahamas will fill out an immigration form and give an oral baggage declaration. You may need to pay taxes and customs duties on items exceeding $100. Present your passport when asked and follow directions from the immigration staff. You also need to make preparations if you plan to bring a dog to The Bahamas, or another pet.
Learn More About Bahamas Visas
Get answers to the most common questions about Bahamas visas.
Is a USA visa free for The Bahamas?
Travelers from the US do not need a visa to visit The Bahamas as long as they are staying less than 90 days. Those staying longer than 90 days, working in The Bahamas, or attending school in The Bahamas all require unique visas and need to complete the application processes.
Can an H1B visa holder go to The Bahamas?
Yes, an H1B visa holder can go to The Bahamas to complete short-term work. Upon arrival, present the approval notice and the confirmation code from your US Embassy appointment in Nassau.
Which country can enter The Bahamas without a visa?
Citizens from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and the Schengen Region do not need a visa to enter The Bahamas for a short stay lasting less than 90 days. The same rules apply to many countries in South America and various other nations listed on The Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Are vaccinations required to visit The Bahamas?
In most cases, visitors are not required to show proof of any vaccinations when entering The Bahamas. However, if coming from a specified list of countries with Yellow Fever risk, travelers over the age of one need to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination.
Additionally, the CDC recommends ensuring you are up to date on the following vaccinations before traveling to The Bahamas:
- Routine vaccines like flu, shingles, and COVID-19
- Hepatitis A and B
- Measles
- Rabies
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
Do minors need documentation?
Yes, minors traveling to The Bahamas need valid documentation including passports and proof of returning flight in order to enter The Bahamas.
Understand Bahamas Visa Requirements for Your Stay
No matter your reason for traveling to The Bahamas, whether you’re visiting or planning to move, preparing yourself for the full visa process is critical. Fortunately, many travelers don’t even need a visa to visit, and online portals make the process smooth for those needing a work permit or long-term visa. A bit of paperwork is well worth it to enjoy the sparkling waters and lush landscapes of The Bahamas!
Take your stay to new heights by securing the best accommodations in The Bahamas. With the help of local experts at MCR Bahamas, you can find the luxury home best suited for your priorities and desired location. From oceanfront properties to Nassau penthouses, there’s something for everyone in our range of listings. Plus, MCR Bahamas can provide exclusive opportunities in highly sought-after communities you won’t find anywhere else.
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