The Bahamas is an attractive destination for investors due to its stable economy, tax advantages, and luxurious lifestyle. The Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency provides an opportunity for high-net-worth individuals to obtain residency by making significant financial contributions to the country.
An Overview of the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency
The Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency is a residency-by-investment program known as the Golden Visa Program that allows foreign investors to gain permanent residency by making qualifying investments in the country. While it does not grant immediate citizenship, it provides investors with the right to reside in The Bahamas indefinitely, with the possibility of applying for Bahamas eVisa or citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Here are the key takeaways regarding Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency and immigration:
Eligibility for Economic Permanent Residency (EPR): The applicants must have a clean criminal record, invest in property or have a business that creates Bahamian jobs, be self-sufficient financially, and have paid property taxes.
Rights of Permanent Residents: Permanent residents enjoy the majority of the same rights as Bahamian citizens, the only difference being the right to vote. They are free to enter and stay in The Bahamas and can bring personal staff if they secure work permits.
Alternative Residency Options: The Bahamas also offers renewable Annual Residence permits and the Homeowners Resident Card, which provides for easy entry for homeowners.
Government Policy towards Residence: The Bahamian government promotes local job opportunities in conjunction with foreign skilled talent.
Requirements for Work Permit: Foreign nationals who wish to work must possess a work permit, which is occupation- and person-specific. The permit is issued for one year, though senior jobs qualify for three years.
Permanent Residency with Right to Work: This category is available for persons who have family ties in The Bahamas and are entitled to reside and work without any impediments.
Benefits of the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency
Investing in The Bahamas comes with several advantages, including:
Permanent Residency: Investors and their eligible dependents can obtain permanent residency, allowing them to live in The Bahamas.
Tax Benefits: The Bahamas has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, making it an attractive destination for wealth preservation.
Path to Citizenship: After meeting the residency requirements, investors may apply for Bahamian citizenship.
Ease of Travel: Permanent residents can travel freely to and from The Bahamas, with visa-free access to certain Caribbean nations.
High Quality of Life: The Bahamas offers a tropical climate, beautiful beaches, luxury real estate, and a high standard of living
Who is Eligible for the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency?
To qualify for an Economic Permanent Residency, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Criteria
Details
Minimum Investment
Applicants must make a qualifying investment in The Bahamas to be eligible for permanent residency. Higher-value investments may receive priority processing for faster approval
Legal Source of Funds
Applicants must provide proof of legal and verifiable financial sources for their investment.
Good Character
A clean criminal record and a certificate of good conduct from the applicant’s country of residence are required.
Commitment to Residency
While there is no minimum stay requirement, maintaining ties to The Bahamas, such as owning property, is encouraged.
Investment Options for the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency
Investors can choose from the following qualifying investment options:
Real Estate Investment: Foreign investors can qualify for permanent residency by purchasing residential property in The Bahamas. Higher-value investments, particularly in luxury real estate, receive priority consideration for expedited residency approval.
Business Investment: Invest in a Bahamian business that contributes to the economy and creates local employment opportunities.
Government Bonds & Financial Investments: Investing in government-approved financial instruments or bonds may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Documents Required for Application of the Bahamas Golden Visa Program
Applicants must submit a complete set of documents to support their application for permanent residency through investment. Below are the key requirements:
Completed Application Forms
Must be submitted in duplicate, ensuring all information is accurate and consistent.
Proof of Identity
Includes a certified birth certificate with English translation if issued in a foreign language.
Marriage Documentation (if applicable)
Includes a certified marriage certificate and the spouse's birth certificate.
Police Clearance
A recent police certificate verifying the applicant's criminal record status.
Medical Examination
A recent medical certificate confirming good health and fitness to reside in The Bahamas.
Passport Size Photographs
Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting official specifications.
Character References
Two written references from reputable individuals attesting to the applicant's good moral standing.
Bahamian Postage Stamp
A required stamp affixed to the application as part of processing requirements.
Financial References
Official documentation verifying the applicant's financial stability, including proof of assets,
investments, or property ownership.
Notarization
The application must be notarized by a lawyer or Justice of the Peace to confirm its authenticity.
Application Process for the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency
The process of obtaining an Economic Permanent Residency in The Bahamas generally includes the following steps:
Choose an Investment
Select an eligible investment option, such as purchasing real estate or starting a
business
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary paperwork, including proof of investment, financial records,
passport copies, and a police clearance certificate.
Submit Application
Submit the completed application along with the non-refundable processing fee to the
Bahamas Immigration Department.
Background Check
Authorities will conduct due diligence and verify the source of funds.
Get Residency Card
Upon approval, applicants receive their residency card, allowing them to live in The
Bahamas.
Validity & Renewal of the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency
The Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency grants permanent residency for life, meaning there is no need for periodic renewal once the visa is approved. However, this status is contingent upon the investor maintaining their qualifying investment and adhering to Bahamian laws. While there is no mandatory stay requirement, it is highly recommended to stay at least 90 days per year in the Bahamas. It is equally important for investors to maintain active ties to The Bahamas, such as owning property, contributing to the economy, or visiting periodically. Failing to uphold these connections or engaging in legal violations could lead to revocation of residency status. Additionally, investors who wish to transition from permanent residency to Bahamian citizenship must meet the minimum residency requirement of 10 years before applying for naturalization.
Benefits of Bahamas Citizenship
Becoming a citizen of The Bahamas provides numerous advantages, including legal rights, financial benefits, and lifestyle perks. Here are some key benefits:
Right to Live and Work: Bahamian citizens can live, work, and study in The Bahamas without restrictions.
Visa-Free Travel: A Bahamian passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the UK, EU Schengen states, and Canada.
Business and Investment Opportunities: Citizens can own businesses without restrictions and enjoy access to a stable and tax-friendly economy.
No Personal Income Tax: The Bahamas does not impose income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, making it an attractive option for high-net-worth individuals.
Access to Social Services: Citizens can benefit from public healthcare, education, and other government services.
Generational Benefits: Citizenship is passed down to children, securing long-term residency and rights for future generations.
Strong Global Reputation: The Bahamas is politically stable, with a strong legal system and a high standard of living.
Key Considerations Before Applying for the Bahamas Golden Visa Program
Before applying for the Bahamas Economic Permanent Residency, consider the following:
Investment Due Diligence: Ensure that your investment complies with Bahamian regulations.
Tax Implications: While The Bahamas has no personal income tax, investors should review tax obligations in their home country.
Citizenship Process: Permanent residency does not automatically lead to citizenship. Investors must reside in The Bahamas for at least 10 years before applying for naturalization.
Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependent children may be included in the application for residency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Economic Permanent Residency holders can engage in business activities related to their investment, but additional work permits may be required for certain employment types.
No, The Bahamas does not impose a minimum stay requirement for permanent residents. However, maintaining ties to the country is recommended.
Yes, after 10 years of legal residency, Economic Permanent Residency holders may apply for citizenship, subject to approval by the Bahamian government.
If you sell your investment, you may need to reinvest in another qualifying asset to maintain your residency status.
Standard applications take several months, but investments over $1.5 million may receive priority processing.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in April 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.
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