do i need a visa to bahamas

Full Answer

Do I need a passport to travel to the Bahamas?

When crossing international borders by plane, a passport is always required and the Bahamas are no exception. All US citizens must provide a valid US passport to enter or re-enter the states. It should be noted that many airlines do not allow US citizens to fly to the Bahamas without a valid passport.

How long does it take to travel to the Bahamas?

It takes 10 minutes one way and along the way the view of the harbor is wonderful. This is the national airline of Bahamas and mostly availed by frequent travelers and tourists who like to save on time in lieu of extra cost. Bahamas Air connects Nassau's Lynden Pindling Airport to various airports in the out islands.

What are the citizenship requirements for the Bahamas?

All applicants must submit:

• Birth certificate.
• Two passport-sized color photos.
• All existing Bahamas visas and permits, if applicable.
• Biodata page of a passport, valid for six months.
• Police certificate of good behavior for applicants 14 years of age and older from the six months leading up to application.
• BS$10.00 postage stamp.
• BS$100.00 processing fee.

Can you use visa or MasterCard in the Bahamas?

We haven't really found very many places that don't accept credit cards in the Bahamas. If it's a small food stand, a taxi cab or bus, or some of the boat tours or charter fishing trips, then cash is likely to be needed. Grocery stores, restaurants and car rentals normally take credit cards. Visa and MC are widely accepted.

Who needs a visa to enter Bahamas?

U.S. Permanent Residents (Non-citizens) For visits exceeding 30 days: A valid national passport and a Bahamas visa are required for U.S. resident non-citizens wishing to stay longer than 30 days.

Who does not need visa for Bahamas?

Who DOES NOT Need a Visa to Enter The Bahamas Designated CountriesAmerican Samoa.Andorra.Anguilla.Antigua and Barbuda.Argentina.Armenia.Aruba.Australia.More items...

What is required to enter The Bahamas?

Effective 19 June 2022, all unvaccinated travellers ages 2 and older will be required to obtain a negative COVID-19 test — either a negative RT-PCR test or a Rapid Antigen test — taken no more than three days (72 hours) prior to travel and present the negative test results at check-in before travel to The Bahamas.

Can US citizens go to The Bahamas now?

The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3 – Reconsider Travel – Travel Advisory for The Bahamas due to COVID-19 and exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime. The CDC has issued for The Bahamas a Level 3 – High Level of COVID-19 Travel Health Notice.

How much is Bahamas visa fee?

Vaccinated tourists from the U.S. will pay $40 per Health Visa, while vaccinated travelers from the rest of the world will pay $50 per. Unvaccinated travelers from the U.S. will pay $60 per Health Visa, while unvaccinated travelers from the rest of the world will pay $70.

Where can I travel visa free?

In May 2018, US citizens could travel to 186 visa free countries....Where Can Americans Travel Without a Visa?AlbaniaGermanyNamibiaAnguillaGreenlandNicaraguaAntigua and BarbudaGrenadaNorthern Mariana IslandsArgentinaGuamNorwayArmeniaGuatemalaPalau42 more rows

How long does it take for a Bahamas travel visa to get approved?

Bahamas Travel Health Visa applications take up to 48 hours to process, so they should be completed with adequate lead time. Applicants will receive an automated response within 1 hour of submission indicating the application is being processed.

Is the Bahamas expensive?

Generally speaking, the Bahamas is one of the most expensive countries to live in in the world.

Is Bahamas part of USA?

Is the Bahamas part of the US? No, the Bahamas is not a part of the United States but a self-administered, independent country, which forms part of the United Nations, the Organization of American States, and the Caribbean Community.

Where can US citizens go without a passport?

You can travel without a passport in the following countries:Puerto Rico.US Virgin Islands.Northern Mariana Islands.American Samoa.Guam.Canada.Alaska.Mexico.

What should I avoid in The Bahamas?

Avoid walking alone after sunset, especially around poorly-lit and deserted locations, such as streets and beaches. Nightclubs and music venues provide a chance to experience local culture, though tourists should stick to heavily populated areas and walk in a group.

How close is Bahamas to Florida?

The western islands of the Bahamas are only 50 miles from Florida's east coast. With a bit of prep and planning, you can get there even in a modest-sized boat. Used to be, when cruising the Bahamas, you would mostly see cruising sailboats, trawlers, and large yachts.

How many countries is Bahamas visa free to?

As of 7 January 2020, Bahamian citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 154 countries and territories, ranking the Bahamian passport 27th in terms of travel freedom according to the Henley Passport Index.

Is Bahamas visa free to USA?

All travelers who arrive directly to a U.S. Port of Entry by air or sea must possess a U.S. visitor's visa. Travelers who would otherwise qualify for the Visa Waiver Program and who travel by air from a CBP Preclearance facility in Freeport or Nassau may not need a U.S. visitor's visa.

How long can I stay in the Bahamas without a visa?

eight monthsAn American national may stay for a maximum period of eight months without a visa in The Bahamas. Should they wish to extend their stay, application must be made to the Immigration Department for an extension of stay. The applicant must contact the Immigration Dept.

Do I need a visa to go to the Bahamas from Jamaica?

Jamaican citizens don't need a visa for travelling to Bahamas.

Which countries do not require a visa to enter the Bahamas?

Equatorial Guinea. Eritrea. Ethiopia. Gabon. Ghana. Guinea. Guina-Bissau. Haiti. India –Indian Nationals who have visas for, or permanent resident status in, US, UK , Canada and Schengen countries do not require a visa to enter The Bahamas.

Who needs a visa to enter the Bahamas?

Who Needs Visas to Enter The Bahamas Designated Countries. India –Indian Nationals who have visas for, or permanent resident status in, US, UK , Canada and Schengen countries do not require a visa to enter The Bahamas. Indian nationals who hold diplomatic or official passports do not require a visa to enter The Bahamas.

What are the requirements to get a Bahamas visa?

Requirements may also include a police report, flight itinerary, copies of previously held visas and foreign marriage and birth certificates. It is recommended that applicants contact the Bahamas Consulate Division before applying.

Which countries require a visa for the Bahamas?

Notable nations include Egypt, Cuba, The Dominican Republic, Indonesia, Iran, Pakistan, Laos, the Philippines, India, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Taiwan, Ukraine, UAE and Vietnam.

How long does a Bahamas visa last?

If traveling via another country, that card must expire no less than six months after their last day in the Bahamas. A return ticket is also required. Citizens of Latin America are not required to carry a Bahamas visa is their stay is less than three months. They are required to have a return ticket and proof of lodging confirmation.

How long can a US citizen stay in Bahamas?

Permanent US residents who are not American citizens must apply for a visa to the Bahamas for stays longer than 30 days. Additionally, a valid national passport is required. A green card is required for visits less than 30 days; however, a visa is not.

How long do you have to carry a yellow fever certificate in the Bahamas?

Visitors who have transited through an airport in a nation with risk of yellow fever transmission for more than 12 hours must also carry a vaccination certificate valid for at least 10 days before entering the Bahamas. Be mindful of credit card fraud in the Bahamas.

How long does a Canadian passport last in the Bahamas?

If traveling via another country, that card must expire no less than six months after their last day in the Bahamas. A return ticket is also required.

Can you travel to the Bahamas with a passport?

Most travelers with a valid US or Canadian passport that contains multiple blank pages and is well within its expiration date should have no trouble clearing customs in the Bahamas. Likewise, visitors from Latin America should be presented with few issues at the border. Still, these guidelines will help you earn that coveted passport stamp in the Bahamas and avoid any potential obstacles at your port of entry.

What is a Bahamas visa?

PASSPORT refers to a valid passport from the individual's country of birth. VISA refers to a Bahamas visa only. If a person is born in one country and resident in another (other than the US or Canada), the documentation required is based upon the country of birth.

How long does a Canadian passport last?

A Canadian passport, with an expiry date that is NOT less than 3 months, after leaving The Bahamas (for direct travel) and NOT less than 6 months (if transiting through other countries such as the US) A return ticket.

How much does it cost to clear customs in Bahamas?

If entering The Bahamas by boat, there is a flat fee to clear Customs and Immigration, which is $150.00 for boats 35 feet and under and $300.00 for boats 31 feet and over. This covers a vessel with three persons or less.

What to show immigration when using an electronic ticket?

NOTE: If you are using an electronic ticket, please show Immigration a copy of your travel itinerary and ticket number.

Can you return to Bahamas by boat?

NOTE: Persons are advised to purchase return tickets (and seek reimbursement upon returning home for the unused ticket), even when they are certain to return via a private boat—the chance of an airline/cruise line ticket agent allowing travel on a single ticket is very slim. If, however, the person gets to the point of Bahamas Immigration on a single ticket, the Captain of the boat would have to present himself and the cruising permit. However, a copy of the cruising permit will be permitted for crew members, who may be arriving by plane and returning by boat as their names will appear on the manifest. A letter will not suffice.

Can a minor travel with only one parent?

NOTE: Where a minor child is traveling with only one parent, a notarized letter of permit from the parent not traveling may be requested. If traveling with non-parents, a notarized letter from the minor's guardians would be required.

Where to apply for extended stay in Bahamas?

In case you plan a prolonged trip to the Bahamas, apply for an extended stay at the Immigration Department in Nassau.

How many islands are there in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas consists of around 700 islands teeming with tropical vegetation, white-sand beaches with turquoise waters, and water sports opportunities. While visiting the archipelago, you can:

Do you need a certificate to get a Bahamas shot?

You must show a certificate that you are fully immunized with the required number of shots. Bahamian authorities find the following vaccines acceptable:

What are the safety concerns in the Bahamas?

Find more information about common safety and security concerns in The Bahamas including credit card fraud , real estate scams, and water sport and scooter safety on our website.

What is FAA aviation safety oversight?

Aviation Safety Oversight: Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of The Bahamas’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of The Bahamas’ air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

What happens if you violate local laws?

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

How many pages are required for entry stamp?

Two pages are required for entry stamp.

Where is crime most common in the Bahamas?

Country Summary: The vast majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, exercise caution in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street). Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assault occur, but generally not in tourist areas. Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft are often not maintained, and many companies do not have safety certifications to operate in The Bahamas. Jet-ski operators have been known to commit sexual assaults against tourists. As a result, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.

Where does road flooding occur?

Road flooding occurs frequently in many areas, including Nassau and Freeport, during and after rainstorms. Be alert for unmarked or poorly marked construction zones.

When is the CDC health alert 2021?

Health Alert – Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs (January 21, 2021)   Location: Worldwide – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director has signed an order requiring all airline passengers traveling to the United States, including U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test or recovery from COVID-19. Event:  Effective January 26, all airline ...

Bahamas Travel Requirements

If you’re thinking of traveling to the Bahamas, there are a few things you need to know first. In this post, we’ll outline the basic travel requirements for getting into the country, as well as some other useful information for visitors. So whether you’re planning a vacation or just want to know more about traveling to the Bahamas, read on!

For vaccinated travelers

Fully vaccinated tourists coming to the Bahamas from other parts of the world will be required to show negative COVID-19 test reports. This can be either a Rapid Antigen test or RT-PCR, including RNA, NAAT, PCR, NAA, or TMA, taken not more than three days before arrival to the country.

For unvaccinated travelers

Effective 27th December 2021, unvaccinated tourists aged 12 and above need to obtain negative COVID-19 tests, taken not more than 72 hours or three days before their date of arrival.

Health Visa Application

All visitors coming to the Bahamas need to apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa via travel.gov.bs.

How long does it take to get a negative PCR test in Bahamas?

Unvaccinated travellers entering The Bahamas and/or those travelling inter-island from Nassau & Paradise Island or Grand Bahama Island must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR (swab) test taken no more than 5 days prior to the date of arrival. Test must return a negative result for entry into The Bahamas.

How many days before arrival to Bahamas to get a PCR test?

Those travelling to The Bahamas from other countries who have been fully vaccinated will be required to obtain a negative COVID-19 test (either a Rapid Antigen Test or PCR), taken no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival to The Bahamas. The name and address of the lab where the test was performed must be clearly displayed on the test result.

How long does a health questionnaire take in the Bahamas?

The questionnaire must be completed upon arrival and each day thereafter for up to 14 days, or the duration of their stay, whichever is shorter.

What age can you get a Bahamas health visa?

All children, under the age of two (2), are exempt from any testing requirements. As part of the Bahamas Travel Health Visa application, travellers will be required to opt-in to COVID-19 health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in The Bahamas.

When do cruise ships require rapid antigen testing?

Unvaccinated cruise guests will be required to take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test on the fifth day of their cruise. Cruise lines will provide onboard testing for their guests. Fully vaccinated travellers will be exempt from the Day 5 rapid antigen testing requirement. Check your visa application status.

Why are protocols subject to change in the Bahamas?

Due to fluidity of the COVID-19 situation, both in The Bahamas and worldwide, protocols are subject to change.

How much is the penalty for not wearing a mask?

A $250 fine or a penalty of one month imprisonment, or both, is to be enforced for visitors or residents found not wearing face masks in areas where it is required. A $10,000 fine or a penalty of two years imprisonment, or both, is to be enforced for visitors or residents submitting falsified vaccination records.