The Bahamas, a breathtaking archipelago of 700 islands and cays, welcomes visitors from around the globe. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you will need to obtain the appropriate Bahamian visa. Understanding the different types of Bahamas eVisa available is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free entry into this idyllic nation. For most foreign nationals, including Pakistanis and other non-visa-exempt travelers, securing a visa is a necessary step before visiting The Bahamas. The country offers various visa options to accommodate different travel purposes, such as tourism, business, work, study, and long-term residence. Each visa type has specific requirements, validity periods, and entry permissions, ensuring that visitors can legally enter and stay in The Bahamas according to their travel plans.

General Documents Required for Bahamas Visa Application

When applying for a Bahamas visa, applicants must provide the following essential documents:

1️⃣ Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and have blank pages for visa stamps.

2️⃣ Completed Visa Application Form – Accurately filled out and signed by the applicant.

3️⃣ Passport-Sized Photos – Recent color photographs meeting Bahamas visa photo requirements (usually 2x2 inches, white background).

4️⃣ Proof of Travel Itinerary – A confirmed round-trip ticket or travel booking showing entry and exit dates.

5️⃣ Accommodation Proof – Hotel reservation, invitation letter from a host, or rental agreement if staying with family or friends.

6️⃣ Financial Proof – Recent bank statements, pay slips, or a sponsorship letter to show the applicant has sufficient funds to cover their stay.

7️⃣ Proof of Purpose of Visit –

• Tourist Visa: A travel itinerary or travel confirmation.
• Business Visa: Invitation letter from a company in The Bahamas.
• Student Visa: Acceptance letter from an accredited Bahamian institution.
• Work Visa: Job offer and work permit approval.

8️⃣ Travel Insurance – Proof of valid travel health insurance covering the duration of the stay.

9️⃣ Police Clearance Certificate (if required) – Some visa types may require a background check.

🔟 Visa Fee Payment Receipt – Proof of payment for the applicable Bahamas visa fee.

Applying for a Bahamas Visa

The application process for a Bahamas visa will vary depending on the type of visa you need and your nationality. For eligible countries, the eVisa system offers a convenient online application process. For other visa types or nationalities not eligible for the eVisa, you will likely need to apply through the nearest Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate.

Key Steps in the Bahamas Visa Application Process

The general steps involved in the application of Bahamas visa are:

1. Determine the Visa Type – Choose the correct visa category based on travel purpose (eVisa, Tourist, Business, Student, Work, etc.) and check eligibility requirements.
2. Complete the Application Form – Fill out the Bahamas Visa application accurately, ensuring all details match travel documents, and attach required photos and supporting documents.
3. Submit Documents & Pay Fees – Provide all necessary documents and pay the visa processing fee through the designated online portal or at the embassy/consulate.
4. Wait for Approval & Receive Visa – Track the application status, wait for approval, and receive the eVisa via email or collect the sticker visa from the consulate. Ensure you print and carry the approved visa when traveling.

Here are the Types of Visas offered by Bahamas Explained:

1. Bahamas eVisa

The Bahamas has introduced an electronic visa (eVisa) system to streamline the visa application process for eligible travelers. This system allows applicants to complete the process entirely online, eliminating the need to visit a Bahamas embassy or consulate in person. The Bahamas eVisa is primarily designed for short-term visits, making it a convenient option for tourists and other temporary travelers. The Bahamas eVisa is offered into 2 categories;

Bahamas Self-Sponsored Visitor Visa

This type of eVisa is for individuals traveling to The Bahamas for tourism, leisure, or business meetings without a local sponsor. Applicants must provide proof of sufficient funds, accommodation details, and a return ticket to show they can support themselves during their stay.

Bahamas Seaman’s Visa

The Bahamas Seaman Visa is specifically designed for crew members of commercial vessels who need entry into The Bahamas as part of their work. This visa allows sailors, shipping crew members, and other maritime workers to legally enter The Bahamas while in transit or for work-related purposes.

Each Bahamas eVisa Category offers two types of entry into the Bahamas:

Single Entry Visa: Typically valid for up to three (3) months from the date of issue, allowing one entry into the Bahamas. The permitted duration of stay upon arrival is usually up to 90 days.

Multiple Entry Visa: May be issued for three (3) months, six (6) months, one (1) year, or in some cases, three years, allowing multiple entries. Each individual stay under a multiple-entry tourist visa is generally limited to a maximum of 90 days.

Who Should Applicants Apply for Bahamas eVisa?

✔️ Tourists visiting for a short vacation

✔️ Business travelers attending meetings or conferences

✔️ Frequent travelers needing multiple entries

2. Bahamas Sticker Visa (Traditional Visa)

The sticker visa is a physical visa issued by an embassy or consulate. It is stamped or affixed to the passport and is required for travelers who do not qualify for an eVisa or those seeking longer stays. Types of Bahamas Sticker Visa include:

(a) Bahamas Tourist Visa (Sponsored)

The Tourist Visa is for travelers visiting The Bahamas for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends. Depending on the traveler’s needs, it can be issued as either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. The validity period varies from 90 days to 1 year, depending on the approval from the immigration authorities.

(b) Bahamas Business Visa

The Business Visa is designed for professionals traveling to The Bahamas for business meetings, trade fairs, conferences, or negotiations. It is available in both single-entry and multiple-entry formats, making it convenient for frequent business travelers. The validity of this visa depends on the purpose of travel and approval from Bahamian immigration officials.

(c) Bahamas Student Visa

Individuals enrolling in long-term academic programs in The Bahamas must apply for a Student Visa. To obtain this visa, applicants must provide proof of admission from an accredited educational institution in The Bahamas. The visa is typically valid for the duration of the academic program, allowing students to legally reside in the country while studying.

(d) Bahamas Work Visa/Permit

The Work Visa is issued to foreign nationals who have secured an approved job offer from a Bahamian employer. This visa requires sponsorship from the employer and approval from The Bahamas' Department of Immigration. The validity of the visa is linked to the employment contract, ensuring that foreign workers can stay in The Bahamas for the duration of their job assignment.

(e) Bahamas Residence Visa

For individuals seeking long-term residency in The Bahamas, the Residence Visa is the appropriate option. This visa is typically granted to retirees, investors, or individuals with family ties in the country. Applicants must provide proof of financial stability and suitable accommodation to qualify for this visa.

(f) Bahamas Transit Visa

A Transit Visa is required for travelers who are passing through The Bahamas on their way to another country. It is usually valid for 24 to 72 hours, depending on the applicant’s itinerary. However, travelers who remain within the airport’s designated transit area and do not exit the terminal may not require this visa, depending on their nationality and visa exemption status.

3. Special Category Visas

In addition to the standard tourist, business, and work visas, The Bahamas also provides special category visas for individuals traveling under unique circumstances. These visas are designed to accommodate diplomats, investors, and family members of Bahamian residents.

(a) Bahamas Diplomatic & Official Visa

The Diplomatic & Official Visa is issued to government officials, diplomats, and representatives of international organizations traveling to The Bahamas on official duties. To obtain this visa, applicants must receive official approval from both the Bahamian government and their home country. This visa often comes with special privileges, including exemptions from certain entry requirements.

(b) Bahamas Investor Visa

The Investor Visa is designed for foreign nationals investing in Bahamian businesses or real estate. This visa is particularly beneficial for individuals who plan to establish economic ties in The Bahamas. In some cases, the Investor Visa can lead to permanent residency, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term settlement.

(c) Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa

The Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) Program, is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and students who wish to live in The Bahamas while working or studying remotely. This visa allows digital nomads to reside in The Bahamas for up to one year, with the option to renew.

Key Features:
✔️ Valid for 1 year, with renewal options.
✔️ Allows remote workers and students to live in The Bahamas while continuing their jobs or studies online.
✔️ Requires proof of remote employment, financial stability, and health insurance.
✔️ Does not permit employment in The Bahamas—applicants must work for an overseas employer or their own business.

This visa is ideal for professionals who want to enjoy the Bahamas' scenic beaches, vibrant culture, and high-quality lifestyle while maintaining their careers remotely.

(d) Bahamas Spouse Residency Permit

The Bahamas Spouse Residency Permit is issued to foreign spouses of Bahamian citizens, allowing them to reside in The Bahamas on a long-term basis. This permit helps families stay together and may lead to permanent residency over time.

Key Features:
✔️ Allows foreign spouses of Bahamian citizens to legally reside in the country.
✔️ Requires proof of marriage validity, financial stability, and background checks.
✔️ Typically granted for one year, with renewal options.
✔️ Long-term residency can eventually lead to permanent residency and citizenship eligibility.

Choosing the Right Bahamas Visa

Selecting the right Bahamas visa depends on your purpose of travel, duration of stay, and eligibility. The Bahamas offers different visa options for tourists, business visitors, workers, students, investors, and long-term residents. Below are key factors to consider when choosing the appropriate visa:

Bahamas Entry Requirements

Tourists traveling to The Bahamas must meet some entry requirements based on nationality, purpose of visit, and duration of stay. Whether visiting for tourist, business, work, or study purposes, all visitors must comply with Bahamian immigration regulations.

1. Passport Validity – All travelers must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months from the date of intended stay.
2. Visa Needs – Non-visa-exempt nationals should obtain an appropriate visa, either a Bahamas eVisa or sticker visa, before arrival.
3. Return or onward Ticket – Travelers must provide a return or onward ticket to ensure they have an arrangement to depart The Bahamas within the time allowed on their stay.
4. Sufficient Funds – The traveler must present proof of sufficient funds to support their stay, i.e., bank statements, cash, or credit cards.
5. Accommodation Details – A booked hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a sponsor is required for entry.
6. Health Requirements – A certificate of yellow fever vaccination, subject to the point of origin of the traveler, is mandatory. Additional health processes could be required or other public health crises.
7. Customs and Immigration Screening – Immigration inspection on arrival and inquiry regarding purpose of visit, stay duration, and place of residence are feasible.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Bahamas visa depends on the purpose of travel, duration of stay, and eligibility. For short-term visits, the Bahamas eVisa is the most convenient option. However, for work, study, or long-term residence, a sticker visa issued by an embassy is required. Always ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and apply well in advance to avoid delays.

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in May 2025, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.