Bahamas Residency by Investment

OVERVIEW

The Bahamas offers residency by investment through its Economic Permanent Residency Program. By purchasing property valued at US$1 million or more, applicants can qualify for permanent residency. Higher investments, typically US$1.5 million or above, may expedite the process. Additional requirements include background checks and financial solvency.

Secure Your Future in Paradise with Expert Legal Support

Imagine waking up steps from crystal-clear waters while enjoying the benefits of a tax-neutral lifestyle. Through the Bahamas Residency by Investment program, JH Marlin provides the legal clarity and personalized guidance you need to invest with confidence. Whether you’re seeking peace of mind, global mobility, or long-term planning, our team is here to help you build your life in the Bahamas: legally, securely, and seamlessly.

Interested in Becoming a Bahamas Resident? JH Marlin is Here to Help.

What is the Bahamas Residency by Investment Program?

In July 2021, a new clause in Bahamian immigration law was created to allow for permanent residency by investment. The enacting legislation is the Immigration Act, Chapter 191. Before 2021, Bahamian immigration law provided no obvious direct path to permanent residency, and applicants had to first apply for a residence permit or homeowner’s ID card, and subsequently to submit a permanent residence application after one year.

This streamlined process allows foreign investors to gain Bahamas residency quickly, with the option to apply for citizenship after 10 years. The investment program takes approximately three months but can be expedited with a higher minimum investment. Applicants must reside in the Bahamas for at least 90 days annually to maintain their residency status.

Strategic Advantages of the Bahamas Permanent Residence Program

Business-Driven Incentives

Tax Advantages: Benefit from a recognized tax haven status with no personal income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or corporate tax on your global earnings.
Professional Opportunities: Gain eligibility for a legal work permit to pursue business investment activities in the Bahamas. Certain conditions established by the Department of Immigration may apply.

Family-Oriented Considerations

Inclusive Eligibility: Permanent residency extends to spouses, children, and financially dependent relatives of all ages, provided they reside with the principal applicant.

Lifestyle and Personal Perks

Healthcare and Education Access: Enjoy access to high-quality private medical facilities and reputable international education options.
Stable Living: Obtain permanent residence in a politically stable environment with future access to economic permanent residency status.
Lifestyle: Embrace a tranquil island lifestyle with minimal residency requirements—just 90 days per year.
Efficient Processing: Fast-track your residency visa within three months, or request expedited processing in as little as three weeks.

Exploring Investment Options for Bahamian Residency

Investment Options: Choose between diversified investment categories such as tourism, real estate, or technology sectors. Each contributing to national development.
Real Estate Investment: Secure your long-term stay through Property Investment in approved residential assets, subject to a ten-year holding requirement.
Economic Contribution: Establish a presence through impactful financial investments, reinforcing your eligibility for permanent status.

Understanding Minimum Investment Criteria for Residency in the Bahamas

The required investment amount is set by the Ministry of Financial Services and directly affects processing timelines. Fast-track applications begin at US$1 million, while a US$1.5 million property investment qualifies for priority handling. Applications below US$500,000 typically fall outside the eligible investment category and are not accepted.

Pathways to Citizenship from Bahamas Permanent Residence

Permanent residents may become eligible for Bahamian citizenship through naturalization following a 10-year period of permanent residency. This pathway offers a long-term outlook for individuals seeking full integration under the Bahamas Permanent Residence framework. A Bahamian passport enables visa-free travel to around 150+ destinations, although the Bahamas does not allow dual citizenship.

Connect with JH Marlin to Discuss Your Residency Visa and Investment Options

How to Apply for Bahamas Permanent Residence Through Investment

Residency Application Steps

Initial Consultation: Connect with JH Marlin to outline your goals and timeline.
Eligibility: Undergo compliance checks to confirm admissibility and review any background details.
Agreement: Execute a formal retainer to initiate legal and immigration services.
Documentation: Prepare required forms, IDs, and certificates.
Invest: Choose your preferred investment category, such as a qualifying Property Investment in approved real estate.
Submission: File your application and pay the corresponding government fees.
Processing: The Department of Immigration will process the residency visa application, typically within a three-month timeframe.
Long-Term Outlook: Maintain your investment and legal status for ten years to eventually request citizenship consideration.

Key Documents Required for Bahamas Residency Visa Application

Identity and Verification Documents

Authenticated copy of passport
Police certificate showing no criminal background
Two personal references
Certified copies of marriage certificate (if relevant) and birth certificate

Financial and Health Criteria

Declaration of personal net worth
Medical certificate from licensed health providers

Required Files for Real Estate or Property Investment

Proof of acquisition and legal site documentation
Official identifier for the real estate land
Receipts proving real estate tax payments

Documentation for Business Investment Applications

Character reference
Environmental risk or impact assessment
Evidence of financial health and capability
Business plan or strategy approved by the Bahamian government

Top Reasons to Choose JH Marlin for Your Bahamas Permanent Residence Journey

Begin Your Bahamas Permanent Residency by Investment with Expert Legal Support

Learn More About Bahamas Residency by Investment

What is the Difference Between Bahamas Citizenship by Investment and Permanent Residency?

Permanent residency in the Bahamas allows individuals and their families to live in the country without a large upfront investment. It provides visa-free travel and stable residency rights. Citizenship, on the other hand, requires a longer process and the renunciation of previous nationalities since the Bahamas does not accept dual citizenship. Both options involve formal application steps under the Department of Immigration, legal compliance, and fees. Residency remains a reliable pathway toward economic permanent residence through the Bahamas Permanent Residence program.

Are there Tax Advantages to Living in the Bahamas?

Yes, the Bahamas offers important tax advantages, which is why it is considered a top tax haven. It attracts high-net-worth individuals and Property Investment applicants with benefits such as:

No personal income tax
No capital gains or inheritance taxes
No wealth tax
Favourable property tax treatment

These advantages make the Bahamas a preferred choice for wealth preservation and encourage financial investments through eligible investment options.

Is Dual Citizenship Allowed in the Bahamas?

No, dual citizenship is not permitted in the Bahamas. Applicants must give up their previous nationality if they wish to become Bahamian citizens. However, the permanent residency program allows individuals to retain their existing citizenship while receiving a residency visa. This option offers similar long-term benefits, including visa-free travel, without changing legal status.

Is obtaining a Bahamas Citizenship by Investment possible with the current available programs?

The Bahamas does not offer an official citizenship by investment program. Foreign nationals can still pursue permanent residency through real estate or other investment options. After ten years of maintaining permanent residency, individuals may apply for citizenship through naturalization. This step-by-step process, supported by Property Investment or financial investments, is appealing for those planning a future transition from residency to full citizenship.

What are the best ways to obtain a Bahamas passport?

To obtain a Bahamas passport, the most common route is through naturalization after maintaining at least ten years of permanent residency. Applicants must show a consistent physical presence in the Bahamas and a clear intent to become a tax resident. This process involves fulfilling legal requirements defined under Bahamian citizenship law and typically includes oversight by the Department of Immigration. Holding Bahamas Permanent Residence is often the first step before applying for citizenship.

How long can you stay in the Bahamas if you own property?

Individuals who own property in the Bahamas may qualify for a Homeowner’s Residence Card, which grants a renewable annual residency permit. This residency visa offers flexibility to stay in the Bahamas each year and can include dependent family members listed under the same application. Property Investment in residential real estate is a common path for securing this permit under the Bahamas Permanent Residence program.

How strong is a Bahamian passport?

The Bahamian passport is valued for its strong travel freedom, allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 155 countries. This includes destinations such as Canada, the UK, and the Schengen Area. The international mobility it provides enhances the appeal of pursuing Bahamian citizenship, especially for those with long-term goals linked to tax haven advantages or global business investment strategies.