Visitor & short-stay visas
Bahamian Visa-Free Visitor Entry
For nationals of many countries who can enter The Bahamas without a visa for tourism or business, staying only for a limited period.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The exact per-nationality maximum stay (3 vs 8 months) and the current list of visa-exempt countries change by bilateral arrangement; verify each nationality against the official entry-requirements page before relying on it.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Bahamas government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Visitor (visa-exempt) entry
- Route type
- Visitor / tourism and business
- Maximum stay
- Up to 8 months for most visa-exempt nationals; up to 3 months for many South/Central American nationals
- Work rights
- No gainful occupation permitted
- Passport
- Valid passport required for all entrants
Who it is for
- Nationals of visa-exempt countries visiting for tourism or business
- US citizens entering as bona fide visitors (up to 8 months)
- Holders of a valid Schengen, UK, Canada or US visa
- Most Commonwealth nationals (with certain exceptions)
Requirements
- Valid passport
- Return or onward ticket
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during the stay
- Valid travel documents permitting entry to a further country if required
What you can do
- Stay for tourism, holiday or business meetings for the permitted period
- Travel among the islands of The Bahamas
- Cannot take up employment or any gainful occupation
How to apply
- No advance application needed for eligible visa-exempt nationals
- Present a valid passport and supporting documents to an Immigration officer on arrival
- Check the Department of Immigration entry-requirements page and your nationality's permitted period before travelling
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.