Relocation Guide
The Bahamas is literally paradise on earth. Before you pack your bags and catch that flight to the islands, here are a couple of key things you should know about relocating to the country.
Different islands, different lifestyles
The Bahamas is an archipelagic state with over 700 islands and cays, some of which are largely uninhabited. The four main inhabited islands, however, are Andros, Abaco, New Providence, and Grand Bahama.
The Bahamian capital of Nassau is located in New Providence, which is also host to majority of The Bahamas’ population. A plethora of banks, businesses, and establishments are also located in the island.
Andros is the largest island in the archipelago, with estuaries dividing the land area into three main islets: North Andros, South Andros, and Mangrove Cay. Andros is best known for its large collection of blue holes and vibrant marine ecosystem.
Meanwhile, Grand Bahama is the fourth largest in the archipelago, lying in the northernmost reaches of the Bahamas. The island is a popular tourist destination, with several cities such as Freeport and Eight Mile Rock located here.
Close to Grand Bahama are the Abaco islands, known as the Boating Capital of the World. The islands are also known to a couple of settlements where you can find charming Colonial architecture.
Regardless of where you choose to relocate in the Bahamas, you are guaranteed to have a good time.
Residency
To legally stay in the Bahamas, you can apply to become a resident in several ways.
- A Permanent Residence permit allows you to live, work, and even vote in the Bahamas unless it is revoked. Those who are eligible for this permit include medical professionals, have homes in the Bahamas, and foreigners who have been married to their Bahamian spouses for five years.
- A Permit to Reside (also called an Annual Permit) is advisable for Non-Bahamian nationals who are desirous of living for any purpose other than working in the Bahamas, must seek authorization from the Department of Immigration. This comes in the form of a Permit to Reside, also commonly known as an Annual Permit. Students attending school in the Bahamas, or dependents of persons living in the Bahamas (under the age of 18), are eligible to apply for this permit.
- A Home Owners Resident Card is perfect if you want to enjoy hassle-free travel in the archipelago. Non-Bahamians who own residents in the country are eligible to apply.
- If you are only staying in the Bahamas for work, you can apply for a Annual Work Permit or a Short Term Work Permit.
You can also apply for Bahamian citizenship if you meet any of the criteria:
- You have been a legal permanent resident for 10 years and have resided in the country for a minimum of 6 years.
- You are a female spouse of a Bahamian citizen. Male spouses are eligible for naturalization.
- You were born in the Bahamas after July 9, 1973 to non-Bahamian parents.
- You are a child (adopted or biological) of at least one Bahamian parent.
You can find more information about citizenship and residency permits in the Bahamas via their government’s official website.
Life is good in the Bahamas
If you need any assistance regarding your move to the Bahamas, feel free to browse my website. You can also get in touch with us at sales(at)alacartebahamas(dotted)com or Call 242.373.4663.