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Golden Visa Partners

2026 Program Guide

Bahamas Golden Visa & Residence Permit

The Bahamas offers lifetime permanent residence through real estate investment from USD 1,000,000; investments above USD 1,500,000 receive expedited processing (3-6 months). There is no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax.

Last updated: 2026-07-07 · Reviewed by: Burak Ünal

At a glance

Program
Economic Permanent Residence (EPR)
Real estate
From USD 1,000,000 (10-year holding period)
Expedited
Above USD 1,500,000 (3-6 months)
Tax
No income / gains / inheritance tax
Work
Separate permit required

Who is it for?

  • Those seeking lifetime permanent residence in a tax-free environment.
  • Wealthy individuals able to make a real estate investment of USD 1,000,000 or more.
  • Those seeking expedited (3-6 month) processing with investment above USD 1,500,000.
  • Families seeking Caribbean living close to the US.

Lifetime Residence Through Real Estate

The Bahamas Economic Permanent Residence (EPR) offers lifetime permanent residence through real estate worth at least USD 1,000,000 (held for approximately 10 years). Applications with investments above USD 1,500,000 are prioritized, reducing the process to 3-6 months.

Tax and Work

The Bahamas is a jurisdiction with no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax. However, permanent residence alone does not grant work rights; a separate work permit must be obtained to work in the country. The program is primarily chosen for tax planning and quality of life.

Standard and Expedited Applications

Applicants to the Bahamas can approach the Economic Permanent Residence programme through two speeds, and choosing between them is largely a question of budget and urgency. The standard path rests on real estate from USD 1,000,000, held for a ten-year period, and leads to lifetime permanent residence. Those investing above USD 1,500,000 qualify for expedited processing, which is generally completed within three to six months and suits applicants who want certainty sooner. In both cases the substance is the same: a genuine property commitment, a clean criminal record, a legal source of funds and a health certificate. Family members can be included, so a household can secure lasting status together. It is worth noting that the right to reside does not by itself confer the right to work, which requires a separate permit, a point that matters for anyone planning to be economically active locally. The absence of income, capital gains and inheritance tax adds to the appeal for long-term wealth planning, alongside the lifestyle of living in the Caribbean close to the United States. Because thresholds and procedures can change, confirm the current terms and prepare documentation carefully before applying.

Benefits

  • A tax-free environment.
  • Lifetime permanent residence.
  • Living in the Caribbean and proximity to the US.
  • Family members can be included.

Requirements

  • USD 1,000,000 real estate (10-year holding period).
  • Clean criminal record and legal source of funds.
  • Health certificate.

Costs

Real estate
From USD 1,000,000
Expedited processing
Above USD 1,500,000
Government fees
Additionally apply

Process

  1. Eligibility and property selection

    Identify a qualifying real estate investment of at least USD 1,000,000 (or USD 1,500,000 for expedited processing).

  2. Investment and document preparation

    Complete the property purchase and gather proof of funds, a clean criminal record certificate, and a health certificate.

  3. Application and due diligence

    Submit the Economic Permanent Residence application to the Bahamian immigration authorities for review.

  4. Approval and permanent residence

    Once approved, receive lifetime permanent residence, expedited to 3-6 months for larger investments.

  5. Work permit (if needed)

    Apply separately for a work permit if you intend to be employed or run a business in the Bahamas.

FAQ

Can I work with permanent residence?
No. Economic Permanent Residence does not grant work rights; a separate work permit is required to work.
How is the process expedited?
Applications with investments above USD 1,500,000 are prioritized, reducing the timeline to 3-6 months.
How long must I hold the real estate?
The property is expected to be held for approximately 10 years to maintain residence.
Will I pay tax in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas levies no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax.
Can I include my family?
Yes. Spouse and dependent children can be included in the application.

Sources

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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