As one of the wealthiest nations in the Caribbean, the Bahamas is a popular destination for international businesses and expatriates alike — and the island chain’s tropical climate makes it all the more desirable. You probably won’t have much difficulty finding a team of talented employees who are willing to make the move to the Bahamas with your business. The real challenge comes when you have to learn how to get the necessary work permits and visas for every employee.
The government in the Bahamas issues several different types of visas to foreign nationals. Anyone who wishes to travel to the Bahamas for employment purposes will need one of the following permits:
These permits also function as visas, so employees will not need to obtain a second document to enter the Bahamas.
According to the official website of the Bahamian government, the following documents are required in support of a long-term work permit application:
It can be challenging for expatriates to obtain a Bahamian work visa, as the government tries to ensure that eligible job seekers in the country have priority over foreign nationals when it comes to employment. However, the visa application process is relatively simple for foreign workers who have already secured a job with a company based in the Bahamas.
In the Bahamas, the Department of Immigration is responsible for the issuance of work permits. Work permit applications are available online as well as at the Department’s offices. Prospective employees should take the following steps:
Applicants should remain in their country of residence while the work permit application is being processed. Processing times may vary, so it’s a good idea to apply well in advance of the planned departure date. Within three to four weeks, applicants should contact the Inquiries Unit of the Bahamian Department of Immigration for an update. Once the permit is issued, the prospective employee can travel to the Bahamas and begin working for your company.
It’s typically up to the employer to make arrangements and obtain work permits for foreign employees. Employers also pay associated fees.
In the Bahamas, work permits are typically issued for an initial period of one year. After a year, the permit can be renewed, but employees should be aware that it can be challenging to renew a work permit after five years of working in the Bahamas.
When you join the G-P team, our global experts will work hard to ensure that your transition to operating in the Bahamas is as smooth as possible. We’ll manage the risk so that you can focus on managing your business. To learn more about the benefits of our solution, reach out to us today.
THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). G-P does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect G-P’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. G-P makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.