Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa 2026: 1-Year Remote Work Permit

The Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa, known as the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS), is a government-issued permit allowing remote workers and students to live and work remotely in the Bahamas for up to 12 months. With an easy 5-business-day processing time and renewable stays totaling up to 3 years, it’s one of the Caribbean’s unique long-term visa options for digital nomads.

Launched in October 2020, BEATS permits remote employees and enrolled students outside the Bahamas to stay on 16 Bahamian islands. Applicants must show sufficient financial resources and hold health insurance covering their entire stay. The visa waives taxes on foreign income and offers a tropical island lifestyle combined with straightforward legal access for remote work.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements

• Remote workers employed by companies or self-employed outside the Bahamas
• Students enrolled in a recognized foreign educational institution
• No official minimum monthly income, but proof of sufficient financial resources required
• Valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
• Health insurance covering your entire stay, including COVID-19
• Proof of accommodation in the Bahamas during the stay

Remote work tip: Use a trusted VPN when working from public WiFi in cafes, coworking spaces, airports, or hotels.

How Much Income Do You Need?

The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay visa does not specify a fixed minimum income threshold. Instead, you must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself throughout your stay. This can be shown through bank statements or contracts verifying your remote work earnings. There is no published added amount for spouses or family members—consult the official site for updates.

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Required Documents Checklist

• Identity Documents:
  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Passport-size photograph
• Financial Documents:
  • Bank statements or proof of financial means
  • Contracts or proof of remote work
• Professional Documents:
  • Letter of employment, proof of self-employment, or student enrollment letter
• Other Documents:
  • Health insurance policy covering the entire stay (including COVID-19)
  • Proof of accommodation in the Bahamas

Health insurance is often part of the visa process. Compare insurance options for digital nomads before submitting your application.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Confirm Eligibility

Verify you are a remote worker employed outside the Bahamas or a student enrolled abroad.

2. Gather Required Documents

Prepare your passport, photographs, proof of work/study, financial evidence, insurance, and accommodation proof.

3. Complete Online Application (Up to 1 hour)

Apply through the official portal at portal.immigration.gov.bs.

4. Pay the $25 Application Fee

This fee is non-refundable and required to start processing.

5. Wait for Approval (Up to 5 Business Days)

Processing time varies but typically takes up to 5 business days after a complete application.

6. Pay Permit Fee Upon Approval

Remote workers pay $1,000 per year. Follow payment instructions sent via email.

7. Receive QR Code Confirmation

Present the QR code upon entry to the Bahamas to finalize your visa status.

Need help with your visa application? Compare professional visa services for expert help with documents and submission.

Processing Time and What to Expect

Expect approximately 5 business days from submission of a complete application to receive approval. Incomplete documents may cause delays. If rejected, you can appeal or reapply after correcting deficiencies. There have been reports of program suspension in early 2022; verify the current status before applying to avoid surprises.

Tax Implications for Digital Nomads

The Bahamas does not impose personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. Foreign-sourced income remains untaxed. However, Value Added Tax (VAT) applies to goods and services at standard rates. Always consult a tax advisor for your specific situation to ensure compliance both in the Bahamas and your home country.

Tax rules can change quickly. Get expat tax advice from specialists if you expect to become tax resident.

Pros and Cons of the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa

Advantages

• Up to 12 months stay, renewable thrice (up to 3 years total)
• No personal income tax on foreign income
• Quick processing time of 5 business days
• Access to 16 picturesque islands in the Bahamas
• Allows both remote workers and students to apply

Disadvantages

• No official minimum income, making financial documentation subjective
• Application fees and permit costs higher than some other destinations
• Health insurance mandatory, possibly increasing upfront costs
• Program suspension reported in early 2022—check current status before applying

How Bahamas Compares to Other Digital Nomad Visas

The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay offers a competitive 1-year renewable stay with no income tax on foreign income, similar to Caribbean peers like Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda. Unlike more stringent programs requiring fixed income thresholds, the Bahamas uses a flexible financial resources test. However, some may find permits more expensive and the need to verify current program status a drawback. For a broader perspective on global options, compare all 125 digital nomad visas →

Essential Tools and Services for Digital Nomads in Bahamas

Setting up your nomad life in the Bahamas is easier with the right tools. Here are services we recommend based on real nomad feedback:

• Health Insurance: SafetyWing offers nomad-specific coverage that meets Bahamas visa requirements and covers you in 180+ countries including home visits.
• Internet Security: NordVPN protects your data on public WiFi in Bahamas cafes and coworking spaces, plus gives you access to home country streaming services.
• Mobile Data: Airalo eSIMs work in the Bahamas from day one — no need to find a local SIM, just install and connect.
• Visa Help: VisaHQ handles Bahamas visa applications professionally if you prefer expert support.
• Airport Transfers: Welcome Pickups ensures a stress-free arrival in the Bahamas’ major cities with verified drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my family on the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa?

Current guidelines do not clearly specify family addition provisions. It’s best to consult the official portal or contact authorities for family options.

How much does the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa cost?

The application fee is $25 (non-refundable). Upon approval, remote workers pay a $1,000 permit fee annually.

Can I work for local Bahamas companies on this visa?

The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay visa permits remote work for employers or yourself based outside the Bahamas. Working directly for local Bahamas companies is typically not allowed.

How long can I stay in Bahamas with this visa?

You can stay for up to 12 months initially, with renewals accepted up to 3 years total.

Is the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa renewable?

Yes, the BEATS visa can be renewed up to 3 times, allowing a maximum stay of 3 years.

Final Thoughts

The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay program is an excellent option for remote workers and students seeking a tropical environment with the benefit of tax-free foreign income and flexible financial requirements. Those who value fast processing and an easy application process will find the Bahamas attractive, while individuals needing family inclusions should verify current policies. Always double-check program status due to past suspensions before applying.

See full Bahamas visa details →

Useful Travel Setup Before Moving to Bahamas

Before you arrive, these services help with transport, mobility, and luggage logistics:

• BikesBooking — Motorcycle and scooter rentals for getting around your destination
• Radical Storage — Trusted luggage storage in 600+ cities worldwide
• GetTransfer — Private transfers and airport pickups worldwide

Disclosure: Some links in this article may be affiliate links. Enomads may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Disclaimer: Visa rules change frequently. Information last verified 2025-04-27. Confirm current requirements with the official source before applying.

Not sure which visa fits you? Try our visa eligibility checker. Explore more options in the region on our digital nomad visas page.