Three hundred forty days of sunshine, the beautiful landscape, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters – who wouldn’t want to live in the islands? Moving to the Bahamas sounds almost like a dream, and if you had the chance, we’re sure you would take it. But if you’re serious about moving to the Caribbean islands, you better read up on what it takes to live there. Here is a complete guide for relocating to the Bahamian Islands for expats to help you get started.
Cost of Living and Moving To the Bahamas from the US
The idea of living in a place called “Paradise Island” would have you believe that everything there comes easy; that couldn’t be further from the truth. The cost of living in Bahamas is more expensive than in the US. For example, staying in Nassau on New Providence Island is 10% more expensive than living in Chicago. So you’ll have plenty of moving stress to deal with, at least where finances are concerned. On the plus side, staying there is nearly tax-free.
Renting After Relocating to Bahamas
There are many different areas to rent on the island, and most of them are quite lovely, depending on where you are. Renting can also be complicated if you aren’t sure how to get an apartment out of state. Assuming you want to stay somewhere new and safe with easy access to necessities or nearby beaches, renting in the Bahamas can cost you anywhere from $2,500 to over $4,000. It depends on your circumstances, too. For example, traveling with more than one person or having kids or pets can change the expenses.
Another thing to consider is that most landlords require a full deposit and first month’s rent, and in some cases, the last month’s rent. On top of that, you’ll have to get utilities, internet, and cable. The internet is relatively the same cost as in the States, but services can add up to almost as much as rent if you aren’t careful.
Getting Groceries and Essentials
Remember that, for the most part, the Bahamas gets much of its money from tourism each year, so many establishments are for tourists. With that, many services and places to buy food and essential products are more expensive. For comparison, getting groceries for one person in Los Angeles costs anywhere from $150 to $250 a month. In Nassau, it’s 17% higher to get groceries.
Visa Requirements for Americans Working in The Bahamas
The Bahamas is an independent country so, if you plan on moving internationally there, you need to have a firm understanding of the immigration rules.
Know The Bahamas Immigration Rules Before Moving Overseas
Before entering the island nation, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements, especially if you’re looking for temporary or permanent residency. If you’re visiting, you can enter the city for up to 120 days. If you’re seeking residency, there are some steps you have to take and documents needed to travel abroad beforehand. First, you have to know what different types of permits there are and understand the moving abroad terms:
- Permanent Resident Visa – Permanent residency allows you to stay in the Bahamas freely for life. It’s the most expensive visa and has several options with specific requirements before paying application and registration fees. You’ll also be required to provide a source of income for some options.
- Annual Resident Visa – This visa applies if you plan on visiting the island every year for an extended period. During this time, you can get your permanent residency if you wish. The requirements are to fill out an immigration form, reasons for wanting to reside in the country, several personal information documents, passport photos, and other related costs.
- Home Owner’s Card – You can get this card if you plan on owning new property in the country, for which you are required to fill out an immigration form, and have information documents, proof of property investment, or property ownership, including deeds, contracts, or conveyances. You will need to pay a property tax.
Requirements for Work in The Bahamas
If you choose to relocate to the Bahamian islands, you’re going to need to have a source of income. As most expats do, you’ll probably make a portion, if not most, of your earnings online. However, should you consider moving overseas for a job in the Bahamas, you’ll have to acquire a working permit. To get it, you first have to fill out an application and have it notarized. Then you submit it to the department of labor with several supporting documents. They include a letter of request from the employer, a copy of the bio-data page from your passport, a police certificate of character, medical information, and inform yourself of important relocation questions to ask the employer.
What to Bring When Moving to The Bahamas
Even though you won’t be moving across the world, shipping overseas presents challenges and is a form of culture shock. This is all the more reason to come prepared for the changes you’re about to experience. Make sure you pack correctly for a smooth transition by bringing the following:
- Warm clothes – Tropical islands are always warm or scorching hot, so you should pack plenty of summertime clothes such as t-shirts, sandals, flip-flops, shorts, etc.
- Rain jacket – The rain there can get pretty heavy during the year and especially during hurricane season. Make sure you have a reliable raincoat.
- Travel bag – Chances are you’re going to want to explore or walk throughout the towns and areas, so be sure that you have a travel bag to keep your essentials.
- Essential travel documents – We cannot stress this enough – always make sure you have copies of your travel documents on hand in case you need them.
- Minor essentials – Hand sanitizer, masks, toiletries, latex gloves, first aid kit, etc.
A Guide to The Best Places for Expats to Live
Having gotten all the information about living on Paradise Island, you’re probably wondering where the best places to live are. There are many popular places for expats to go; it’s only a matter of looking for what best fits your needs. Another plus is that you can contact an international moving company with professional moving services to help you have a comfortable relocating experience.
Popular Places for Expats to Call Home When Moving Abroad to the Bahamas
Below is a short list of the most popular places for Bahamas immigration. Here, expats get to live their islander lifestyle to the fullest.
- Nassau – The capital city and home to 230,000 people, located on New Providence Island. It has the largest population in the entire region and has many attractions like resorts, a business district, and much more,
- Lucaya – Home to 46,525 residents, Lucaya is a suburb of Freeport and has a majority of resorts and hotels for tourists,
- Freeport – A city district, known as a free trade zone, more known for its national parks. Located on Grand Bahama Island, it’s home to 26,910 residents.
Prepare for The Hurricane Months
A significant aspect of living in the Caribbean is hurricane preparedness. Hurricane season is between June 1st and November 30th. August, September, and early October are the months with the highest risk. During this time, Bahamas residents take precautions such as keeping updated on weather reports and predictions, having an evacuation plan and paying attention to government regulations regarding warnings.
Extra Tips on Caribbean Living
If you’re convinced that moving abroad to the Bahamian islands is the right choice, follow this guide to help you get all of your things. To help make your international relocation a little easier, here are a few extra tips you can use:
- If you can help it, you’ll want to rent somewhere within walking distance of the local town center. There aren’t many forms of public transportation and taxi services, and cars are expensive,
- Be sure to stock up on new clothing before you go. Aside from vendors, you won’t find many places to shop,
- Try not to eat out so much. There isn’t a large variety of places to eat, and you’ll most likely be eating at the same places,
- Unless you plan on shipping a car overseas, be prepared for taking a lot of buses when you get there.
It may seem like a pipe dream at first, but it’s doable if you want to live the islander lifestyle. For that reason, calling an overseas shipping company like Sunset will be the best way to relocate and start a brand-new life. We offer more than plain old overseas moving company services.
Our benefits include professional packing services in various forms, added travel and relocation insurance, and free storage unit service for an entire month. The Bahamas are waiting for you, and all you have to do is contact us via our website and ride off into the sunset with Sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to The Bahamas
To move to the Bahamas, individuals need a valid passport, a visa or residency permit, proof of financial support, and a clean criminal record. The specific requirements may vary depending on the individual’s purpose of visit, length of stay, and country of origin. It is recommended to check with the Bahamian embassy or consulate in the individual’s home country for more detailed information on the requirements.
To apply for a visa, individuals can contact the nearest Bahamian embassy or consulate in their home country and submit a completed visa application form, along with supporting documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial support, a police certificate, and a medical certificate. The specific requirements may vary depending on the individual’s purpose of visit and length of stay. It is recommended to check with the embassy or consulate for more detailed information on the application process and requirements.
The Bahamas is an archipelago of islands, each with unique charms and attractions. Some of the best cities to move to in the Bahamas are Nassau, Freeport, Abaco, and Eleuthera.
Nassau is the capital and largest city in the Bahamas, with a rich cultural history, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of activities and amenities. Freeport is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and duty-free shopping.
Abaco and Eleuthera are more laid-back and offer a more secluded and peaceful island lifestyle, with pristine beaches and excellent opportunities for boating and fishing. Ultimately, the best city to move to in the Bahamas will depend on an individual’s preferences and lifestyle.
The cost of living in the Bahamas is generally higher than in many other countries, due to the country’s reliance on imports for many goods and services. The cost of housing, utilities, and transportation can be particularly high, especially in popular tourist areas such as Nassau and Freeport.
However, the cost of living in Bahamas can vary depending on an individual’s lifestyle and spending habits. It is possible to live more affordably by choosing to reside in smaller, less touristy islands or by living a simpler lifestyle. It’s always a good idea to research the cost of living and budget accordingly before moving internationally.
The healthcare system in the Bahamas consists of both public and private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is operated by the government and provides free or low-cost healthcare to Bahamian citizens and legal residents. However, the public healthcare system is often overstretched and may not provide the same level of care as private healthcare providers.
Private healthcare providers offer a range of services, including medical consultations, hospitalization, and emergency care. Many of these private providers are located in Nassau and Freeport. It is important for individuals moving to the Bahamas to obtain comprehensive health insurance to cover the cost of medical treatment, including medical evacuation if necessary.
To find housing, individuals can start by searching online through local real estate agencies or property management companies. It may also be helpful to visit the Bahamas in person to view properties and get a better sense of the local rental market.
In addition, individuals can connect with locals or expats living in the Bahamas through social media groups or online forums to get recommendations and advice on finding housing. It is important to consider factors such as location, proximity to amenities and cost when searching for housing in the Bahamas.
Renting a property before making a long-term commitment can also be a good idea to ensure that the housing meets an individual’s needs and expectations.
Yes, it is possible to bring pets when moving to the Bahamas, but there are specific requirements and procedures that must be followed. Pets must be properly vaccinated, have a valid health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, be microchipped, and be accompanied by an import permit issued by the Bahamian Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources. It is recommended to contact the Bahamian embassy or consulate in the individual’s home country to obtain more detailed information on the requirements and procedures for bringing pets.
The job market in the Bahamas is highly competitive, with a large pool of skilled and educated workers. The country’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, financial services, and international trade, with limited opportunities in other industries. As a result, many jobs there are in the service industry, such as hospitality, tourism, and retail.
It can be difficult for non-Bahamians to find employment in the country, as the government requires work permits and typically gives priority to Bahamian citizens. Individuals considering moving to the Bahamas for work should research employment opportunities and visa requirements in advance, and be prepared to have the necessary qualifications and work experience to be competitive in the job market.
Moving to the Bahamas from another country requires an understanding of the cultural differences that may affect your daily life. Some key differences to consider include the Bahamian people’s laid-back and friendly attitude, their love for festivals and celebrations, their use of Bahamian Creole English as the primary language, and their preference for a slower pace of life. Additionally, their cuisine, music, and art are influenced by African, European, and American cultures. Understanding and respecting these cultural differences can help make your transition smoother and more enjoyable.
To ship your belongings, you should find an overseas shipping company and determine what items you can bring into the country. Be aware of customs regulations and fees, as well as potential shipping delays. When it comes to finding schools for your children, research local schools and consider their curriculum, reputation, and proximity to your new home.
You may also want to visit schools in person to get a better sense of their culture and values. It’s also a good idea to learn about the Bahamian education system and any specific requirements for enrolling your children in school. Planning ahead and seeking advice from locals or expats who have already made the move can help ensure a smooth transition to your new life in the Bahamas.
