Work visas
Bahamian Work Permit
For non-Bahamians who wish to work and live in The Bahamas for more than 90 days, holding the permit that authorises longer-term employment.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The graduated work-permit fee scale amounts (fee scales 1-8) are not stated on the reviewed pages and are unverified; only the US$200 processing fee and the indicative 8-12 week timeframe are drawn from the official page.
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
- Work Permit (Work Visa)
- Route type
- Employer-sponsored work
- When required
- For work exceeding 90 days
- Processing fee
- US$200 non-refundable processing fee
- Indicative processing time
- Roughly 8 to 12 weeks (contact the Consultation Unit for updates)
Who it is for
- Non-Bahamians taking up employment in The Bahamas for more than 90 days
- Employers who cannot fill a vacancy with a suitably qualified Bahamian
Requirements
- Completed First Schedule Form 1 with a US$10 Bahamian postage stamp
- Medical certificate dated within 30 days
- Police certificate issued within 6 months covering 5 years of residence (applicants aged 14+)
- Two passport photographs (2x2 inches, white background)
- Copies of the applicant's and employer's passport biographical pages
- Labour Certificate with Notification of Vacancy and newspaper advertisements (3 consecutive days)
- Two written references from previous employers
- Employer's business licence or certificate of incorporation and NIB certificate
- Regulatory-body authorisation letter for regulated professions
What you can do
- Live and work in The Bahamas in the approved position for the permit's validity
- Apply to renew the permit through the Department of Immigration
How to apply
- Employer/applicant lodges Form 1 and supporting documents with the Department of Immigration
- Pay the US$200 non-refundable processing fee (card, postal money order or certified cheque)
- Contact the Consultation Unit for status updates during processing
- Applications may be submitted through the eServices online portal
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.