Customs and Immigration request you follow all protocols when entering the Bahamas.Weather entering by sea or by air; the requirements are relatively the same. Below we shall describe what you need to enter the country.
By Sea: You must clear Customs and Immigration at the nearest designated port before entering the Bahamas. As you enter each port, remember to fly the yellow quarantine flag and notify Customs of your arrival. Only the captain is permitted to leave the boat until your vessel has been cleared.
You will require:
1) One copy of The Bahamas Customs Clearance form.
2) One Bahamas Immigration Card per person
3) Proof of Citizenship – a valid passport.
4) Vessel registration documents (Vessel title and proof of ownership)
Customs and Immigration officials will come to your vessel when nearing the islands. Everyone on board must have proof of citizenship and fill out an immigration card. American citizens must present a valid U.S. passport. If you have a firearm on board, you must declare it with Bahamian Customs. You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer and an exact count of ammunition. Weapons must be stored in a locked compartment on the boat at all times.
If you must leave the country by air in an emergency and are not returning by boat, you must notify Bahamian officials, whom will hold your firearm for you until you return.
Boating entry fees:
- Boats up to 35” pay $150.00
- Boats over 35’ pay $300.00
These fees will cover your cruising Permit and fishing permit. A departure tax for up to three three people is included. A $20.00 fee will be included for each additional person after the three person minimum.This fee is good for a second re-entry within a 90-day period.
By Air: Upon your arrival to The Bahamas by airplane, you will be asked to fill out an Immigration arrival/departure card, which you will keep until your departure. All visitors are required to be in possession of a return ticket. Travelers are advised to purchase a round trip ticket; as a one way ticket by officials may not meet requirements for visiting the Bahamas based on your length of stay.
To enter the Bahamas successfully:
US Citizens: Require a valid passport. A visa is required for stays exceeding eight months.
US Residents (non-citizens): An Alien Registration Card (Green Card) and valid passport from country of origin. For visits in excess of 30 days, a valid passport and a Bahamas visa are required.
Canadian Citizens:
A valid passport is required with proof of citizenship. Voter registration cards, birth certificates and photo identification are no longer valid proof of citizenship. A Bahamas visa is required for stays in excess of three months.
United Kingdom Citizens:
A visa is required for stays exceeding eight months. Citizens of the United Kingdom and colonies require a valid passport.
All Other Countries:
For entry formalities, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Bahamas Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.