Nassau Entry Requirements

Children must have their own passport (cannot be included on parent's passport). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel. This letter should include contact information, travel dates, and destinations. Single parents should carry the child's birth certificate. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. Immigration officers may question children traveling with only one parent or with non-parents to prevent child abduction.

Pets (dogs and cats) require an import permit from the Bahamas Department of Agriculture, obtained before travel. Requirements include: current rabies vaccination (at least 1 month old but not more than 12 months old), veterinary health certificate issued within 48 hours of arrival, and certificate of good health. Pets must be inspected by a Bahamian veterinarian upon arrival. There is a fee for the import permit (approximately BSD$10-15) and veterinary inspection (BSD$10). Some breeds may be restricted. Birds, reptiles, and other animals have additional requirements. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before travel. Contact: Department of Agriculture, +1-242-325-7502.

Visitors wishing to stay beyond their authorized period must apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration before their current authorization expires. Extensions are not guaranteed and require valid reasons. Application requires: completed extension form, valid passport, proof of financial means, return ticket (can be flexible), police certificate if staying over 90 days, and payment of extension fees (approximately BSD$100-200). Overstaying without authorization results in fines (BSD$500-1,000), possible detention, and future entry bans. For stays beyond 6 months or for work/residency, different permit categories apply (work permits, annual residence permits, permanent residence). Processing times vary from 2-8 weeks depending on the type of extension.

Cruise passengers on closed-loop cruises (beginning and ending at the same U.S. port) may enter with government-issued photo ID and birth certificate instead of a passport, though passports are strongly recommended. Cruise passengers are typically granted shore leave for the duration of the ship's stay. Keep track of ship departure times as missing your ship is your responsibility. Some shore excursions may require additional documentation. Report to ship's purser if you encounter any issues ashore.

Private vessels must clear customs and immigration at designated ports of entry. The captain must report to Customs and Immigration with ship's papers, passports for all aboard, crew list, and passenger list. Cruising permits are required for vessels staying in Bahamian waters. Fishing permits needed for recreational fishing. Departure tax applies per person. Vessels must clear out before departing Bahamian waters. Contact Bahamas Customs Marine Division for specific requirements.

Business visitors entering visa-free can attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot engage in gainful employment or work. Bring business invitation letters, conference registration, or meeting documentation. For work assignments, employment, or providing services, a work permit is required regardless of nationality. Work permits must be obtained by the Bahamian employer/sponsor before arrival and can take 8-12 weeks to process. Working without a permit results in deportation and bans on future entry.