Bahamas digital nomad visa: How to get it?

The digital nomad visa in the Bahamas is officially known as the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS). It’s the ideal visa for remote workers from around the world who wish to live for a period in this Caribbean archipelago. In this article, we clear up your doubts and present the necessary information so you can submit your application and add to your travel history with a digital nomad experience in the Bahamas. 

Bear in mind that you must apply well ahead of time so everything is in order and you can correct documentation or face an unexpected issue. Here we give some context about the visa, its requirements, documentation and answers to frequent questions about the BEATS visa.

What is and how does the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) visa work?

The BEATS visa was launched in 2020 in response to the growing demand for legal options for international teleworkers. During the pandemic many people started seeking safe destinations where they could continue working remotely. The Bahamas recognised that need and created a government-backed programme to attract professionals from around the globe. Its main purpose is to allow remote workers and students enrolled in foreign institutions to temporarily reside in the Bahamas while they carry out their academic or work activities.

Legal backing of the BEATS visa

The BEATS programme enjoys legal support from the Bahamian government, ensuring a transparent application process and safe legal stay for recipients. Also, this visa is part of the Bahamas’ effort to diversify its economy beyond traditional tourism, offering a sustainable alternative that attracts talent and generates income.

Intended recipients of the BEATS visa

The BEATS visa is mainly aimed at:

• Professionals working remotely for foreign companies or as freelancers.
• Entrepreneurs who manage their own business from anywhere in the world.
• International students who wish to carry on their studies online while enjoying a unique cultural experience.

This visa is ideal for those who can work from anywhere and wish to combine productivity with a relaxed environment offering leisure opportunities.

Features of the Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) visa

The BEATS visa has a range of benefits designed to make the digital nomad experience in the Bahamas comfortable and safe. Below we detail the main features of this programme:

1. Stay duration under the BEATS visa

The visa allows an initial stay of up to one year, with the possibility of annual renewal as long as you continue meeting the requirements set by the Bahamian government. This flexibility helps you plan a longer stay without legal worries.

2. Permitted activities with the BEATS visa

Holders of the BEATS visa may:

• Work remotely for international companies or clients.
• Manage their own businesses, provided these do not entail local commercial activities in the Bahamas. 
• Study online via overseas universities.

It’s important to note that this visa does not allow work involving Bahamian local companies nor participation in the local job market.

3. Simple application process for the BEATS visa

The Bahamian government has streamlined the application process to make this visa accessible. All steps can be done online, and response times tend to be fast, making trip planning easier.

4. Cost of the BEATS visa

The fee to apply for the BEATS visa is competitive and affordable, given its benefits. Currently, the cost is $1,025 (≈ €882.50) for remote workers and $525 (≈ €451.50) for international students. These fees include processing costs and guarantee a legal one-year stay.

5. Financial requirements for the BEATS visa

One of the main requirements is to prove financial solvency. Applicants must show evidence of income sufficient to support themselves during their stay, ensuring they won’t rely on local resources.

6. Ideal environment for digital nomads in the Bahamas

The Bahamas offers:

• High-speed internet connectivity on major islands.
• Coworking spaces and spots ideal for working.
• Modern, reliable healthcare services.
• A welcoming, multicultural community.

These conditions make the Bahamas stand out as a top destination for those seeking an enriching remote work experience.

7. Additional incentives in the Bahamas

The Bahamian government has also implemented measures to ensure safety and comfort for digital nomads, such as clear health protocols, access to online support and a support network to ease the transition to the new environment.

8. Benefit of a unique lifestyle in the Bahamas

Beyond legal and work aspects, the BEATS visa gives you the chance to experience a unique lifestyle. Living in the Bahamas means enjoying warm weather year-round, exploring paradisiacal islands and engaging in a variety of recreational activities, from diving to sailing. Also, the relaxed atmosphere fosters a perfect work–life balance.

9. International community in the Bahamas

Another strong point of this visa is the opportunity to connect with an international community of digital nomads. This cultural exchange enriches your experience and opens doors to new personal and professional connections.

10. Flexibility in uncertain times as a digital nomad in the Bahamas

The BEATS programme was created with current mobility and safety needs in mind. The Bahamas have enforced strict health protocols that ensure a safe environment for residents and visitors. This has made the country a reliable destination even in uncertain times, offering peace of mind to digital nomads who choose to settle there.

11. Ease of access through the BEATS visa

Located close to North America, the Bahamas have excellent air connections from major cities like Miami, New York and Toronto. This eases international travel and allows you to stay closely connected with family or clients abroad.

General requirements to apply for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas (BEATS)

To obtain the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas, you must meet a set of requirements that ensure applicants are suitable to live and work remotely in this destination. Below we describe the main criteria you must satisfy:

• Proof of employment or remote activity: As an applicant you should show you work independently or are employed by a company outside the Bahamas. This includes submitting employment contracts, business certifications or letters from clients in the case of freelancers.
• Sufficient income: You must provide evidence of stable income that allows you to cover expenses during your stay. Usually this requires a monthly minimum specified by Bahamian authorities, which varies depending on visa type or duration.
• Clean criminal record: Submit a criminal record certificate issued by your country of origin or recent residence. This document ensures you don’t hold relevant criminal history.
• Health insurance: You must have an international health insurance policy that covers any eventuality during your stay in the Bahamas.
• Valid passport: Your passport must have at least six months’ validity at the time of application.
• Proof of habitual residence: Some programmes require you to show a fixed address in your country of origin, using documents such as rental agreements or utility bills.
• Compliance with additional specific requirements: Depending on the visa programme, additional requirements may be requested, such as letters of recommendation, details about your remote work or signed declarations of intent to respect local laws.

Documentation to submit for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas (BEATS)

To complete your visa application, you must submit the following documentation, ensuring that it is current and meets formal requirements:

1. Completed application form: This form is available online or at consulates and must be filled carefully with truthful information.
2. Copy of passport: Including the pages showing personal details and any recent visas or stamps.
3. Criminal record certificate: Issued by the competent authority in your country of origin or current residence.
4. Proof of income: Recent bank statements (typically from the last three to six months), pay slips or tax returns that evidence your economic capacity.
5. Employment contract or proof of remote activity: A letter from your employer or contract with employment details. For freelancers, client letters or service invoices are accepted.
6. Proof of health insurance: A copy of the insurance policy covering your stay in the Bahamas.
7. Recent photograph: Typically a passport-sized photo taken no more than six months ago.
8. Letter of intent: Some programmes require a brief statement explaining your visit’s purpose and how you plan to benefit or contribute to the programme.
9. Proof of payment of application fees: Proof that you have paid the administrative fees required.
10. Additional specific documents: Depending on visa type, they may request personal references, client letters or a more detailed description of your remote work.

Where to apply for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas (BEATS)

The application for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas is processed via official channels, either online or in relevant offices. Here are the main points where you can manage this procedure:

1. Official online platform: The Bahamian government has enabled a specific web portal to manage digital nomad visa applications. This site lets you download forms, upload required documents and make payments. Usually, the official page is part of the government site linked to immigration or tourism.
2. Bahamas embassies and consulates: If you’re located abroad, you may visit the nearest Bahamian embassy or consulate. These offices offer personalised advice, check documents and assist in initiating the process.
3. Immigration departments within the Bahamas: For those already in the country as tourists, you may visit local immigration offices to apply in person. However, you should verify beforehand whether you can change migratory status from within the territory.
4. Outsourcing services in your home country: In some instances, the Bahamian government may partner with external firms that help process applications in certain countries.
5. Assistance from certified agencies: There are agencies specialising in immigration procedures that help complete the application efficiently, ensuring all requirements and deadlines are met. Although not official channels, they may be very useful if you have limited time or experience.

The choice of channel depends on where the applicant is located when starting the process and whether they prefer to proceed in person or online. It’s advisable to verify all information via official sources to avoid errors or issues during application.

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Where to get personalised guidance for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas (BEATS)?

Completing the process to obtain the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas can pose some challenges, especially if you’re not familiar with immigration procedures. From understanding specific requirements to completing forms in English or ensuring that all documents are correct, these steps may get tricky. That’s why many choose to use specialised advisory services.

Some of the most prominent companies in this field include:

Adler Realty Bahamas

• Language: English
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 17:00 (local Bahamas time).
• Communication channels: Email, phone and virtual consultations.
• Services: They offer comprehensive advice for visa application, document review and help with fee payments. They also provide detailed guides to prepare applications correctly.

Tetra Consultants

• Language: English and Spanish
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 to 18:00 (Miami time).
• Channels of communication: Calls, WhatsApp and videocalls.
• Services: Services: Specialised in digital nomad visa programmes in the Caribbean. They assist with the application process from abroad and offer official translations if needed.

Fragomen Del Rey LLP

• Language: English
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 16:00 (local time).
• Communication channels: Email and face-to-face meetings.
• Services: They offer long-term support for visa acquisition and renewals. They also help with registering health insurance and other complementary procedures.

Local assistance at embassies and consulates for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas

For those who prefer an official approach, Bahamian embassies and consulates can also provide personalised information. These contact points are ideal to answer specific questions about the requirements and procedures of the visa programme.

Frequently asked questions when applying for the digital nomad visa in the Bahamas

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