.png)
A Bahamian residency is a dream for many people who wish to live in the beautiful Caribbean country of The Bahamas. We show three ways to get the Permanent Bahamian Residency Card.
The Real Draws (Beyond the Brochure)
Here’s what actually makes people stay:
-
Zero income tax. Yep, read that again. No capital gains tax either. You keep what you earn.
-
Close to the U.S. but lightyears away in vibe. Quick flights to Florida. But no Target. No chaos.
-
English-speaking. No language barrier. No awkward Duolingo convos.
-
Stable government and legal system. It’s not a free-for-all. It’s structured. Reliable. You won’t wake up one day to find the rules changed overnight.
-
Quality of life. Sunshine, seafood, and simplicity. Your shoulders drop two inches within a week.
It’s Not Just for Millionaires
The Bahamas has a rep for attracting yacht owners and tax exiles. But it’s not just them. More and more digital nomads, retirees, remote workers, and freedom-seekers are finding their way in — legally, quietly, and for the long haul.
If you’ve ever stared at a palm tree screensaver and whispered “what if?” — this might be your sign.
But what makes The Bahamas so attractive to foreigners?
The Bahamas is a beautiful Caribbean country, consisting of over 700 islands and cays. It is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, as well as for expatriates who choose to call this place their home. Expatriates are individuals who reside in a country other than their own for various reasons, such as work, retirement, or simply a change of scenery.
There are several ways through which one can apply for and obtain Bahamian residency, including through real estate investment, employment, or marriage to a Bahamian citizen.
The Bahamian Residency Options (Explained Like You’re 12)
Alright, here’s the deal.
You can’t just show up in the Bahamas with a suitcase and a smile and stay forever. You need a plan. A legal way to live there without getting the boot after 90 days.
Good news: there are a few ways in. And none of them require you to marry a local or start a conch stand on the beach (unless you want to).
Here’s the simplified breakdown:
1. Temporary Residency for Digital Nomads
Think of this like dating.
You’re not married to the Bahamas. Just… hanging out. Seeing if it’s a fit.
-
Valid for 1 year (sometimes less).
-
You can renew it, but it’s not forever.
-
Great for: remote workers, or anyone testing the waters.
-
You’ll need to show you have money to support yourself and a clean record.
Basically, prove you’re not a broke criminal.
2. Home Owners Card
This is for the “snowbird” crowd.
Folks who want to spend part of the year in paradise without going full expat.
-
Also lasts 1 year, but you apply knowing you’ll probably reapply.
-
You’ll need:
-
A home in The Bahamas.
-
Financial proof you can live without working there.
-
-
You can’t work locally. But if your income is online or from outside the country, you’re good.
3. Permanent Residency
Now we’re talking commitment.
This is the “I’m all in” option.
-
You can stay as long as you want.
-
It doesn’t make you a citizen, but it gives you the right to live there.
-
You don’t have to renew it every year. Less paperwork, more beach.
How do you get it?
There are two main ways:
Option A:
Live There Long Enough
-
If you legally live in The Bahamas for 10+ years, you can apply for permanent residency.
-
Yep, it’s the long game. Slow but steady.
Option B:
Invest in Property
-
Buy real estate worth at least $1,000,000 (new law, 2025!), and you can apply for economic permanent residency.
-
Want to fast-track it? Spend $2.5 million or more, and they’ll bump you to the front of the line.
This is what I did. Bought property, applied, and now I don’t have to check my visa every few months.
4. Spousal or Dependent Residency
Married to a Bahamian? Lucky you.
You can apply for spousal residency. Same goes for dependent kids under 18.
Quick FAQ – Residency in The Bahamas (No Lawyer-Speak)
👉 Can I work in The Bahamas with a residency permit?
Nope. Not unless you get a separate work permit. Residency lets you live there, not work locally. If you earn money online or abroad, you’re golden.
👉 Can I get Bahamian citizenship this way?
Not directly. Residency is not a backdoor to citizenship. That’s a whole other mountain to climb — long-term, rare, and very case-by-case.
👉 What if I buy a house?
If you invest $1,000,000+, you can apply for economic permanent residency. Spend $2.5M+ and you get VIP treatment — faster processing. No, it’s not automatic. But it’s your golden ticket.
👉 How long does it take to get approved?
Months. Not days. And sometimes longer if your paperwork’s messy. Be patient and persistent.
👉 Do I need a lawyer?
You don’t have to — but you’d be smart to hire one. The process is a lot smoother with someone who speaks “government.”
👉 Can I bring my family?
Yes. Your spouse and kids under 18 can apply for residency through you. Just be ready to show financial support.
👉 What’s the biggest mistake people make?
Thinking a visa equals freedom. It doesn’t. You need the right permit for the life you want. Don’t assume. Get clear.
💬 Still lost? Want my help figuring out your best path?
Tap the orange WhatsApp button and message me directly. I’ll guide you through it, no pressure.
The Nitty-Gritty: Requirements, Paperwork, and Pitfalls
So you’ve picked your path. Temporary? Annual? Permanent? Cool.
Now comes the part where 90% of people freeze — the paperwork.
But don’t worry. I’ve done this myself. I’ll show you where people get tripped up, and how to keep it simple.
🗂 What You’ll Need (Basically, Your Life in a Folder)
Every type of residency requires slightly different documents, but here’s what almost everyone needs:
-
Valid passport.
No brainer, but double check it’s not close to expiring.
-
Police certificate / criminal background check.
From your home country (and any country you’ve lived in more than 6 months over the past 10 years). Needs to be squeaky clean.
-
Proof of income or financial support.
Bank statements, investment accounts, business ownership docs — anything that says “I won’t be a burden.”
-
Medical certificate.
You’re not bringing any serious contagious diseases into paradise.
-
Passport photos.
Like 6 of them. Always too many. Always needed.
-
Letter of intent.
A short note saying why you want to live in The Bahamas and what your plan is. Keep it honest, respectful, and drama-free.
-
Marriage/birth certificates (if applying with family).
Originals or notarized copies.
🌀 Where People Mess This Up
Let’s be blunt:
-
They submit half-baked forms.
-
They forget to notarize documents.
-
They assume government speed = Amazon Prime.
Don’t. Do. That.
Here’s how to not look like a clueless tourist playing “island expat”:
🚩 Pitfalls to Avoid
-
Winging it.
This is a legal process, not an Airbnb booking. If you’re unsure, get help.
-
Submitting without double-checking.
You don’t want your application delayed 3 months over a missing stamp.
-
Assuming you can work.
You cannot work in The Bahamas unless your permit explicitly allows it. Residency ≠ employment.
-
Waiting until the last minute.
Renewals take time. Start early. Always.
-
Using sketchy “fixers.”
If someone promises you residency in 48 hours for $10K, run. It’s either a scam or worse — an illegal shortcut that’ll haunt you later.
⚠️ My Honest Advice
If the paperwork makes your eyes glaze over — get a local attorney. Not a must, but it smooths the process and keeps you from rookie mistakes.
I did it with help. You probably should too. Especially if you’re investing six figures into property or moving with a family.
👋 Need Help With the Process?
Tap the orange WhatsApp button.
I’ll walk you through it, help you dodge red tape, and make sure your file doesn’t end up in some dusty stack.
Real Talk: Costs, Commitments, and Catch-22s
Island life ain’t free.
Yeah, the beaches are. The breezes too.
But if you want to live here legally, comfortably, and for the long haul? There’s a bill attached.
Let’s break down what you’re really signing up for — money-wise, mindset-wise, and system-wise.
💸 The Money
Residency Fees (Ballpark Estimates):
-
Temporary Residency Permit: $1,000–$1,500
-
Annual Residency: $1,000–$1,500 + legal/admin fees
-
Permanent Residency (investor route): ~$15,000+ over time
-
Economic Permanent Residency:
-
$1,000,000+ in property = eligibility
-
$2.5M+ in property = faster processing
-
Plus legal fees, appraisal, and admin costs
-
Property Costs:
-
Property prices vary wildly depending on location (Nassau is pricey, the Out Islands less so).
-
You’ll also pay:
-
Stamp duty (10% split between buyer/seller)
-
Legal fees (~2.5%)
-
Application and processing fees
-
Maintenance Costs:
-
Island life means salt, sun, and constant repairs.
-
Groceries? Imported and expensive.
-
Electricity? More than you’re used to.
-
A/C? You’ll run it. A lot.
🧠 The Mindset
The Bahamas isn’t Europe. Or America. Or even Mallorca.
Things move slower. Paperwork isn’t always digital.
You’ll need patience. You’ll need humility.
And you’ll need to let go of the idea that systems should work the way you think they should.
This is their home. You’re the guest.
The trade-off? Way less noise. Way more calm.
Just don’t confuse calm with easy. It’s not.
⚖️ The Catch-22s
-
You need a Bahamian bank account to apply for some permits. But opening a bank account often requires… a permit.
-
You can’t work unless you have a separate work permit, but some folks assume online work means it’s “fine.” (It might be. It might not. Depends who you ask.)
-
Real estate speeds things up. But real estate also ties you down. You’re not just buying a home — you’re buying into a system.
👉 Curious what that actually looks like?
Browse real properties and investment options at cphinvestmentgroup.com. I show what’s out there — not just pretty pictures, but strategy.
💬 Bottom Line
You’re trading speed for peace. Efficiency for simplicity.
That doesn’t mean it’s always smooth. But once you’re through the hoops? Worth it.
And when you’re sitting on your porch, drink in hand, ocean 50 feet away — the memory of that paper chase fades fast.
👋 Want a second set of eyes on your numbers or plan?
Hit the orange WhatsApp button.
I’ll tell you straight if your setup makes sense — or if you’re walking into a bureaucratic buzzsaw.
What Life Feels Like After the Move
It’s quiet. Like, really quiet.
No car horns. No neighbor yelling into a cell phone.
Just wind. Water. Maybe the occasional rooster if you’re on one of the outer islands.
The first morning after I moved, I woke up and didn’t know what time it was. My body did. I wasn’t yanked out of bed by stress or noise — I just opened my eyes when I was ready.
That’s what hits you first. The stillness. The space. The exhale.
🕶️ Your New Routine Feels… Unfamiliar
At first, it’s disorienting.
You’re used to sprinting. You’ve spent your life bracing for impact — deadlines, traffic, noise, bills, meetings.
But now? The pace has changed. No one’s rushing you. People actually talk to you. You might find yourself standing in the grocery aisle chatting with someone about mango season.
Time stretches. Tasks slow down. So do your thoughts.
🌴 You’ll Romanticize Everything… Then Reality Hits
-
Beach mornings? Yes.
-
Coconut water from an actual coconut? Yes.
-
Mosquitos? Also yes.
-
Island prices? Definitely yes.
-
Power going out during a storm? Get a generator.
Island life isn’t perfect. But it’s real.
And honestly, the small hassles feel lighter when your soul feels lighter.
🤝 Making Friends: Expat Bubble vs. Local Life
You’ll find two camps here:
-
Expats who recreate their old life. They find other foreigners, hang out in gated communities, and speak in USD.
-
Expats who integrate. They slow down, meet Bahamians, join the rhythm of the place.
I went with Option 2. It took time. It took humility. But it made everything richer.
If you want to actually belong here — don’t act like a tourist with paperwork. Be respectful. Be present. And be curious.
💬 Real Talk
This move won’t magically fix your life. But it will give you space to figure it out.
The sun won’t heal your burnout overnight.
The beach won’t repair your broken business.
But they will remind you that life can be simpler — and still be good.
And some mornings, that’s enough.
👋 Want to talk through what the lifestyle is really like?
Message me directly via the orange WhatsApp button or christophbahamas.com.
I’ll give you the real version — not the Instagram-filtered one.
Expatriates chose these islands in The Bahamas for Living
In the Bahamas, expatriates can be found on several islands, including New Providence, Grand Bahama, Eleuthera, Abaco, and Exuma. These islands are some of the most populated and developed in the country, making them attractive to expatriates who seek modern amenities and infrastructure.
New Providence (Nassau, Paradise Island)
New Providence is home to the capital city of Nassau, which is the commercial and cultural hub of the Bahamas. It is also the most populous island, with a population of over 274,000 people, and is the center of government, finance, and tourism. Expatriates who live on New Providence enjoy the convenience of modern amenities, such as shopping centers, restaurants, and nightlife. You might look in theses areas to find a home and access to international schools and hospitals: Lyford Cay, Old Fort Bay, Sandyport and Paradise Island.
Grand Bahama Island
Grand Bahama is the second-most populous island, with a population of over 51,000 people. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and casinos. Freeport is the main city on Grand Bahama and is a popular destination for expatriates who seek a relaxed lifestyle. It is the only Free Trade Zone in The Bahamas and Home to different entrepreneurs. More info you find on the Website for Business in Grand Bahama and how to invest there. You might look in theses areas to find a home and access to international schools and hospitals: Steiningerisland, Fortune Bay, Shoreline and Spanish Main.
Outer Islands
Eleuthera is located to the east of Nassau and is known for its pink sand beaches and tranquil atmosphere. It is a popular destination for expatriates who seek a slower pace of life and proximity to nature. No international school and hospital offered.
Abaco is located in the northern Bahamas and is known for its boating and fishing opportunities. It is home to several small towns, including Marsh Harbour and Hope Town. Expatriates who live on Abaco enjoy all the amenities of modern living while also being able to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. No international school and hospital offered.
Exuma is a group of islands located to the southeast of Nassau and is known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful beaches. It is a popular destination for expatriates who seek a private and secluded lifestyle. No international school and hospital offered.
In conclusion, if you want to live permanently in the Bahamas only New Providence and Grand Bahama Island offer expatriates a variety of lifestyles and amenities. Both have good connections into Miami, being Freeport closer to South Florida (it’s only a 20 min flight, you even can cross the Gulf Stream with your Leisure Boat).
Final Word: Paradise Comes with Paperwork
Here’s the truth:
Moving to The Bahamas isn’t some whimsical leap into a hammock with a mojito.
It’s not a postcard. It’s a process.
There’s paperwork, waiting, and systems that don’t bend just because you’re excited.
You’ll be asked to prove things. Translate things. Notarize things.
Sometimes, it’ll feel like the dream is getting buried under bureaucracy.
But if you stick with it?
You wake up one day and realize…
you don’t hear the stress anymore.
You hear waves.
You feel warmth.
You walk a little slower.
And you start building a life that feels like yours.
☀️ Paradise Isn’t Free — But It’s Possible
If you want an easy button, this isn’t it.
But if you want real freedom? Space to breathe? A life that’s yours on your terms?
Then yeah — this is the move.
💬 Need Help? No Pressure. Just Clarity.
If you’re serious, curious, or even just overwhelmed — let’s talk.
Click the orange WhatsApp button or have a look at christophbahamas.com.
Or check out Bahamas Realtors at cphinvestmentgroup.com.
You don’t need to figure this out alone. I didn’t. And I’ve helped plenty of people cross the bridge from “maybe” to “I’m home.”
As a property developer based in The Bahamas one of our daily tasks is to assist our buyers in finding the best lawyers to deal with their residency. Obtaining a Bahamian residency is possible through real estate investment, employment, or marriage to a Bahamian citizen. Regardless of the option chosen, applicants must meet certain requirements and abide by the country’s laws and regulations. It’s important to seek professional advice and assistance when going through the application process to ensure a smooth and successful application. Schedule an online appointment to get more information.
