Residence in Bahamas: permits and requirements
Living legally in Bahamas is possible through 5 permit types: other, permanent, family, work. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Permit to Reside
Residence type #1 of 5
Residence permit for foreigners who wish to live in the Bahamas without working, usually economically independent persons or those with interests in the country.
Requirements
- Show significant economic solvency
- Not seek employment in the Bahamas
- Invest or own property in the Bahamas
- Good character and reputation
Documentation
- Permit to Reside application form
- Valid passport
- Proof of wealth (bank statements, investments, properties)
- Criminal record certificate
- Bank and personal references
- Photos
Frequently asked questions about residence in Bahamas
How many types of residence permits are there in Bahamas?
Bahamas offers 5 residence permit types, grouped into the categories other, permanent, family, work. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Bahamas last?
Durations vary by permit type: Annual, renewable (Annual Permit to Reside; Department of Immigration); Permanent; Annual renewal or as determined; 1 year (renewable). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Bahamas be renewed?
It depends on the type: 3 of 5 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Bahamas?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Formulario de solicitud; Valid passport; Certificado de antecedentes penales; Photos. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Bahamas lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 12 months of residence immediately before the application + 6 years of aggregate residence within the 9 years preceding that period, with sustained legal permanent status (Bahamas Nationality Act, Ch. 190, Second Schedule, para. 1; Department of Immigration: legal permanent resident for 10 years including the 12 months immediately preceding and minimum 6 years of actual residence). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Bahamas.
Residence and nationality updates
Subscribe to know when a country changes its residence or nationality routes. One email, only when there is news.
Anything to correct or add about Bahamas?
If you have spotted incorrect or outdated information, or want to suggest additional details about residence pathways in Bahamas, leave us your comment. We review every one personally.