Residency in the Bahamas

How easy is it for U.S., Canadian, and UK citizens to move to the Bahamas? For U.S., Canadian, and UK citizens, visiting the Bahamas is incredibly easy—no visa is required for short stays. But when it comes to relocating, you’ll still need to follow the official residency or work permit process, just like any other foreign national.

While these countries are often considered friendly nations to the Bahamas due to historical ties, there is no automatic right to live or work. Before Bahamian Independence in 1973, citizens of Commonwealth countries (including the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) could freely live and work here. Today, all foreigners must follow the proper residency protocols if they wish to move long-term.

The two most common pathways for relocation are:

  • Purchasing property, which can make securing long-term residency significantly easier

  • Obtaining a job with an approved work permit

The best option for you depends on whether you’re planning to retire, work, invest, or live part-time in the Bahamas.

There are several options for non-Bahamians who wish to live part- or full-time in the Bahamas. Each type of permit offers different privileges, depending on your lifestyle, investment level, and long-term plans.

Homeowner’s Resident Permit

Available to any non-Bahamian who owns property of any value, this permit allows the owner, their spouse, and minor dependents to reside in the Bahamas and pass through immigration freely.

It does not grant the right to work and must be renewed annually. Many second-home owners find it simpler to visit as tourists unless they plan to purchase or register a vehicle, which typically requires a residency permit.

Permanent Residence Permit

Permanent residency allows individuals to live in the Bahamas indefinitely and enter without immigration formalities.

Without the right to work: Typically granted to financially independent individuals or investors who purchase property or make a business investment of $1 million or more that benefits the Bahamian economy.

With the right to work: Reserved for spouses of Bahamians or long-term residents who have legally worked in the Bahamas for at least 10 consecutive years (though approval often takes longer).

Permanent residents enjoy many of the same privileges as Bahamians, excluding the right to vote.

Spouse Permit

Spouses of Bahamian citizens or individuals with valid work permits can apply for a spouse permit to live and travel freely in the Bahamas. This does not automatically include the right to work unless the marriage is to a Bahamian citizen. After five years of marriage, foreign spouses may apply for permanent residency.

Visit www.immigration.gov.bs for more information