Applying The Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa
The Bahamas is a set of islands known for their beautiful scenery and fantastic food, making them a top tourist destination. Good news for digital nomads: the Bahamas offers a Digital Nomad Visa that allows remote workers to work and explore the country’s 16 islands at their own pace. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for the Digital Nomad Visa in the Bahamas.
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What Exactly is a Digital Nomad Visa?
Bahamas Remote Work Visa Overview
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how people live and work, leading to a rise in remote workers. Big companies like Airbnb, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, PayPal, and Twitter have announced long-term or permanent remote work options for their employees. This has led to an increase in middle- and upper-income earners embracing the digital nomad lifestyle.
The Bahamas launched its Digital Nomad Visa in October 2020, called the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) program, in response to this trend. Unlike many other countries, the BEATS program allows remote workers and students to work or study remotely from the country’s 16 islands for up to 12 months.
One of the best things about the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas is that it does not require a minimum income, which is different in other countries. However, applicants must still have a monthly payment outside the Bahamas to support their living expenses. Another benefit is that after the first year, the visa can be renewed twice, giving you a total stay of up to 3 years. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy and explore this Caribbean paradise. It’s also possible to bring family members, with additional fees applicable.
One of the most enticing aspects of the Bahamas for digital nomads is that the country does not impose income or capital gains taxes. However, there is a value-added tax (VAT) on the purchase of goods and services. It’s important to note that the cost of living in the Bahamas is relatively high, with rental prices comparable to those in the U.S.
Where To Stay?
Booking.com – There are many options for accomodation in the Bahamas, Check Hostelworld for the best options. If you want to meet other nomads or travelers, hostels are the way to go.
Requirements for the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa
To apply for a digital nomad visa in the Bahamas, you need to meet a few simple requirements, which are:
- An active passport: You will need a valid passport to apply for the Digital Nomad Visa in the Bahamas.
- Medical or health insurance that covers the Bahamas: You must have medical or health insurance that covers the cost of any potential medical expenses during your stay in the Bahamas.
- Documentation of employment: If you are employed, you must provide documentation, such as a contract or proof of self-employment, to demonstrate your employment status.
- Justification of income: You must provide evidence of your income to show that you are financially independent and can support yourself during your stay in the Bahamas.
- Zero-offender history: You must have a clean criminal record in your home country.
Please note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval of your visa application..
Application Process for the Digital Nomad Visa in the Bahamas
The Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa application process is straightforward and can be completed online. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Collect All Necessary DocumentsTo get a digital nomad visa in the Bahamas, you first need to gather all the necessary paperwork. These documents include a valid passport that is good for at least six months, an entry visa (if needed from the home country), proof of remote work (freelancer, foreign business owner, or foreign employee), proof of income, a student ID (if applying to study), proof of health insurance (medical insurance card), and a certified criminal record check. Before being sent in with the application, all documents must be scanned and, if necessary, translated into English.
Step 2: Complete the Visa ApplicationOnce all necessary documents have been collected, remote workers can begin the application process. You can complete the entire digital nomad visa application online by going to the BEATS website and clicking “Get Started.” Applicants should follow the onscreen instructions to begin and complete their nomad visa application.
Step 3: Await Visa ApprovalAfter filling out the application, remote workers must wait for the visa application to be approved or denied. The processing time for the Bahamas digital nomad visa is quick, and applicants should expect a judgment via email within five days of submission.
Step 4: Make Visa Fee PaymentOnce approved, applicants are required to pay the visa fee. The fee amount depends on various factors, including the type of visa (study or work) and the number of dependents in the application. A study visa will incur a visa fee of $500 USD per applicant. A remote work permit is priced at USD 1,000 for the head of the family, with an additional charge of USD 500 for each dependent. A further $25 USD will also be collected as a permit application fee once it is approved.
Step 5: Receive an Electronic QR PermitAfter a successful payment, applicants will receive a confirmation QR code that must be shown upon arrival in the Bahamas. This permit allows remote workers to travel around the country.
Cost of the Digital Nomad Visa in the BahamasThe cost of the Digital Nomad Visa in the Bahamas is $1,000. If you bring dependents, there is an additional fee of $500 per dependent. Please note that the application fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied or fails. If you wish to reapply, you must pay the $25 application fee again.
Validity of the Digital Nomad Visa in the Bahamas The Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa is valid for a maximum of one year. However, in some cases, it can be renewed twice, allowing for a total stay of up to three years.Conclusion:
The Bahamas is fantastic for digital nomads because of their infrastructure, food, and culture. However, it’s essential to consider the higher cost of living compared to other North American countries. With the Digital Nomad Visa in the Bahamas, you can live and have fun while working remotely.
Common Questions about digital nomad visa in the Bahamas
The Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa is a special visa program that allows individuals who work remotely to live and work in the Bahamas for up to one year.
Eligibility for the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa is open to individuals who work remotely or run their own online business, and who can demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay.
 To apply for the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa, you need to complete the online application form, provide necessary supporting documents, including proof of employment and financial stability, and pay the required processing fee.
The processing time for the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa application can vary, but it generally takes around 14-21 business days. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
Start Planning Your Bahamas Trip Now!
Book Your Flight:
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flights. A travellers favorite way to book flights, as it searches websites and airlines around the world with one click.
Book Your Bus or Transportation Within Bahamas:
There are two ways to book your transporation, ask your hotel or hostel, go to the local bus terminal, or book online, for a less stressful trip using 12go.asia
Book Your Accomodation:Â
Find the best hotels or hostels at HostelWorld, Booking.com, Agoda.com. Perks include with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and Free cancellations.
Dont Forget Your Travel Insurance:
Two popular choices are SafetyWing and WorldsNomads. A traveler should buy traveler’s insurance to protect themselves against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen baggage. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Useful Apps
Busbud / DrukRide / Bookmebus – Booking Bus
Somos + Bahamas / ChatBahamas / Whatsapp – Communication
Booking.com / Trivago / Hotels.com – Booking Hotel
Bookaway / EasemyTrip / HHR Train – Booking Train
Bahama Eats: Food Delivery / Kraven / Gofadis – Food Delivery
myRide / Talixo – Booking Taxi
Want More Information On Bahamas?
Be sure to check out my nomad travel guide on the Bahamas for even more tips.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
