Working in The Bahamas

The Bahamas is one of the more difficult countries to obtain employment due to strict policies about foreigners working and wanting to provide jobs first and foremost to Bahamians. Generally non-citizens may not work within The Bahamas. There are exceptions for those having skills not available from a Bahamian. The employer must show proof of exhaustive searching for a suitable Bahamian prior to applying for a work permit for the foreign candidate. However any ordinary position not requiring specialized skills will not readily qualify as an employment opportunity for a foreigner.  For instance, if a foreigner applies for a work permit for a position as a bartender or a maid, they would be denied the application. Certain fields are reserved only for Bahamians citizens or those with Permanent Residency with the right to work, such as taxi drivers and real estate agents. 

In order for a foreigner to work in The Bahamas, a Work Permit must be obtained, which is only valid for that specific person and position. The cost of a Work Permit varies from $500 to $12,500 depending on seniority of the applicant. Work Permits usually are granted for one year but they may be granted for periods up to three years for senior personnel.

There are opportunities for study and for employment with several educational facilities and research stations throughout The Bahamas. The Island School at Cape Eleuthera offers fall and spring terms for high school students, six week summer sessions for high school and college students and gap year programs for college students. Students receive SCUBA certification, work with research scientists and get hands on experience in sustainability and conservation, and have an opportunity for cultural immersion at local schools. There are opportunities for employment in the fields of teaching, coordinating and marketing. Check their website for current job postings.

The Forfar Field Station in North Andros offers field study programs in marine biology, geology and island ecology. Check with them for internships and full-time positions. The Bimini Sharklab in South Bimini offers biology and ecology courses for college students, opportunities for visiting and studying scientists and volunteer programs. The University of The Bahamas has a campus in Nassau and in Grand Bahama and offers job opportunities for international professors, and opportunities for international students in all major educational fields with a heavy focus in business, hospitality and tourism studies. The Gerace Research Centre in San Salvador is an affiliation of the University of The Bahamas with a focus in archeology, biology, geology and marine science.