Entry Requirements

All visitors from Britain and Canada must show proof of citizenship. Under new Homeland Security regulations, U.S. travelers are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States. Citizens of other countries, including Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand, should carry a valid passport when traveling. Onward or return tickets must be shown to immigration officials in The Bahamas.

Visas

Visas are not required by The Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Therefore, when entering The Bahamas, visitors will be given an immigration card to complete and sign. The card has a carbon copy that can be kept until departure when must be turned in. Visitors must pay a departure tax before they can exit the country.

*Not needed for USA and Canada. *Please see if your country needs a Visa Customs

Visitors leaving Nassau or Freeport/Lucaya for the U.S. must clear U.S. Customs & Border Protection before departing The Bahamas. Charter companies can make special arrangements with the Nassau or Freeport flight services and U.S. Customs & Border Protection for pre-clearance. No further formalities are required upon arrival in the United States once the pre-clearance has taken place in Nassau or Freeport.

Bahamian Customs allows visitors to bring in 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 1 pound of tobacco, plus 1 quart of spirits. You can also bring in items classified as “personal effects.” There is no limit to how much money you can bring to the Island.

Visitors are strongly advised to collect receipts for all purchases you make in The Bahamas. You must also declare all gifts received while abroad. If you purchased an item during an earlier trip abroad, carry proof that you have already paid Customs duty on the item at the time of your previous reentry. It is advised to compile a list of expensive carry-on items and have U.S. Customs stamp the list at the airport before your departure.

Entering By Boat

If entering The Bahamas by boat, there is a flat fee to clear Customs and Immigration, which is $150.00 for boats 30 feet and under and $300.00 for boats 31 feet and over. This covers a vessel with three persons or less. Also included is a cruising permit, a fishing permit, Customs and Immigration charges and the $20.00 Departure Tax is waived for up to three persons.