Working in the Bahamas

Employment opportunities for foreigners in the Bahamas are limited since the government prioritizes jobs for Bahamian citizens. Non-Bahamians may not work without a valid Work Permit, which is issued only when a position that requires specialized skills is not available locally. Employers must provide proof that they have made every effort to hire a qualified Bahamian before a permit is granted to a foreigner.

Ordinary positions—such as bartenders, housekeepers, or retail staff—are typically not eligible for foreign applicants. Certain professions, including taxi drivers and real estate agents, are legally reserved for Bahamian citizens or permanent residents with the right to work.

Work Permits

Work permits are required for any foreigner employed in the Bahamas and are valid only for the specific role and employer listed on the application.

  • Annual Work Permit: Issued for up to one year, renewable.

  • Spousal Work Permit: Available to spouses of Bahamian citizens or permanent residents, allowing them to work.

  • Permanent Residence with the Right to Work: Holders of this status may work freely without a separate permit.

Foreigners may also choose to establish their own business and apply for a work permit under that entity, provided the business is in an industry not restricted to Bahamians.

Job Opportunities

There is always a need for qualified teachers and medical professionals and generally, these fields don’t have much trouble securing a work permit. Sectors that are most common for foreigners are:

  • Teachers: Check international and private schools such as Lyford Cay International School, King’s College, Windsor School, Tambearly International School, and the University of the Bahamas.

  • Doctors and Nurses: Look at private hospitals and clinics in New Providence and Grand Bahama for opportunities. See Health Care & Emergencies for a few of the locations listed.

  • Finance and Banking: The Bahamas has been a long-time international financial location and has one of the largest financial sectors in the world. There are numerous private banks, trusts, and financial institutions with headquarters overseas which are located in New Providence.

Education & Research Opportunities

There are limited but rewarding positions available in education, science, and sustainability, particularly on the Out Islands:

  • The Island School (Eleuthera): Offers academic, sustainability, and marine research programs with teaching and coordination roles.

  • Forfar Field Station (Andros): Provides field study programs in ecology, geology, and marine biology.

  • Bimini Shark Lab (South Bimini): Hosts marine research and volunteer opportunities for scientists and students.

  • The University of The Bahamas (Nassau & Grand Bahama): Employs international professors and offers academic programs across business, hospitality, and environmental sciences.

  • Gerace Research Centre (San Salvador): Focused on archaeology, biology, and marine studies, in affiliation with the University of The Bahamas.

Remote Work

Those working remotely for a foreign employer do not require a work permit, but they must comply with immigration rules for length of stay. Visitors can remain for up to 90 days (or longer with an extension). For extended stays, consider applying for The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) Program, which allows remote workers and students to reside in the Bahamas for up to one year.