Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to many of the most frequently asked questions may be found on The Bahamas official website www.Bahamas.gov.bs. Once on that site, it’s easy to make your way around to other links, including up to the minute weather and the local telephone directory under www.btcbahamas.com.

Yes, The Bahamas has been an independent nation since 1973, although it maintains close ties with the United Kingdom and with the United States which staffs a large Embassy in downtown Nassau.

The official language of The Bahamas is English.

The Bahamas enjoys an active second home market facilitated by official policy that welcomes foreign nationals who wish to buy property of five acres or less for personal residential use in which case Government approval is not required. However, the acquisition must be registered in accordance with the International Persons Landholding Act. For those wishing to buy additional or larger properties or to invest commercially, a separate stream of requirements must be met.

Second Home Owners are eligible for a Home Owners Residence Card, renewable annually. This card will facilitate entry into The Bahamas and entitle the owner, their spouse and minor children to enter and remain in The Bahamas for the duration of the validity of the card. Applications may be made to the Director of Immigration. Accelerated consideration of applications for annual or permanent residence will be given to major international investors and fit and proper owners of residences valued at $500,000 or more.

Foreign nationals wishing to open a business in The Bahamas are invited to submit an application to the Bahamas Investment Authority. Further information can be found at here. (Link to Establishing Business section)

Foreign nationals need a work permit to participate in gainful employment in The Bahamas. For key personnel who are part of a new investment in The Bahamas work permits will be provided. For persons who are not an essential member of a new investment, an offer of employment must be made, at which time the work permit application process can begin. For more information contact the Immigration Department.