Bahamas

BEATS program, also known as the Bahamas Digital Nomad Visa, is designed for remote workers who wish to live and work in the Bahamas for up to one year. This type of visa has gained popularity, especially in the aftermath of the global pandemic, as it aligns with the rising trend of remote work and allows individuals to choose exciting and distant destinations as their new "work from home."

Several Caribbean countries, such as Curaçao, Anguilla, and Antigua & Barbuda, have introduced similar remote working visas with comparable eligibility criteria. This global shift towards accommodating digital nomads reflects the evolving nature of work and the desire for flexibility and adventure in one's work environment. For a comprehensive list of countries offering digital nomad visas, you can refer to our global digital nomad guide.

The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay (BEATS) program, available on the 16 tax-free islands of The Bahamas, allows individuals to reside in the country for an initial period of 12 months, extendable up to a total of 3 years. This presents a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful islands, engage in island hopping, and even experience the novelty of swimming with the renowned swimming pigs. While living in the Bahamas can be relatively expensive, the convenience of proximity to Miami and other parts of the USA adds to its appeal.

To be eligible for the Bahamas digital nomad program (BEATS), potential applicants need to meet specific requirements:

1. Valid Passport: Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months from your application date.
2. Remote Work: You need to prove that you are engaged in remote work, whether as a freelancer, a foreign business owner, or a remote employee of a foreign company.
3. Financial Self-Sufficiency: While there are no strict income guidelines, you should demonstrate financial independence and sufficiency to sustain yourself during your stay in The Bahamas.
4. Health Insurance: Provide evidence of health insurance that covers you while in The Bahamas.
5. Clean Criminal Record: Pass a criminal record check and maintain a clean criminal record, as required by Bahamian immigration.

Meeting these criteria ensures that you can participate in the BEATS program and enjoy the opportunity to work and reside in The Bahamas for an extended period.

Applying for the Bahamas digital nomad visa (BEATS) is a straightforward process that can be completed online. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the application:

Step 1: Collect All Necessary Documents

Gather all the required documents, which include:

• Valid passport (with at least six months of validity)
• Entry visa (if needed from your home country)
• Proof of remote work (freelancer, foreign business owner, or foreign employee)
• Evidence of income
• Student ID (if you are applying to study)
• Proof of health insurance (medical insurance card)
• Certified criminal record check

Ensure all documents are digitized and, if necessary, translated into English.

Step 2: Complete the Visa Application

Visit the BEATS website and select the "Get Started" option to access the online application. Follow the provided instructions to complete and submit your digital nomad visa application.

Step 3: Await Visa Approval

After submitting your application, await the visa application's outcome. The processing time for the Bahamas digital nomad visa is typically quick, and you should receive a decision via email within approximately five days.

Step 4: Make Visa Fee Payment

Upon approval, you'll need to pay the applicable visa fee. The fee amount depends on the type of visa (study or work) and the number of dependents in the application. For a work permit, the fee is $1,000 USD for the primary applicant and an additional $500 USD for each dependent. A study visa costs $500 USD per applicant. Additionally, a $25 USD permit application fee is required upon approval.

Step 5: Receive an Electronic QR Permit

After successful payment, you'll receive a confirmation QR code. This QR code serves as your permit and must be presented upon arrival in The Bahamas. It allows you to travel freely within the country.

Follow these steps diligently to ensure a smooth application process for the Bahamas digital nomad visa.

Why Choose The Bahamas for Your Next Remote Working Trip?

The Bahamas, renowned for its stunning beaches, has become an enticing destination for digital nomads with the introduction of the digital nomad visa. This visa allows nomads to spend up to a year exploring the various islands that constitute this Caribbean paradise, each offering a unique story, traditions, and captivating encounters.

Remote Work Culture in The Bahamas

The Bahamas boasts well-developed infrastructure, particularly regarding services essential for remote workers. Addressing a common concern of global nomads, the country offers reliable internet services. With an average fixed broadband download speed exceeding 45 Mbps and an upload speed of over 10 Mbps, it provides ample coverage even in remote island settings. Moreover, the presence of numerous coffee shops, cafes, and high-quality coworking spaces like Incudesk in Nassau, a popular choice among global nomads, adds to the appeal.

Cost of Living and Quality of Life

While The Bahamas offers a remarkable remote work environment, it's essential to consider the cost of living, which is relatively high. Estimates indicate that the cost of living is more than 26.5% higher than in the United States, with rental properties being about 17.1% lower than their U.S. equivalents. An individual nomad can expect to spend approximately $1,265 USD per month (excluding rent), while a family of four might spend around $4,485 USD per month (excluding rent).

The quality of life in The Bahamas is rated as moderate, with a high cost of living and low purchasing power being notable aspects. However, the country excels in terms of the climate index, traffic commute time, and property price-to-income ratio.

Healthcare in The Bahamas

Healthcare services in The Bahamas have seen substantial improvement in recent years, attributed to the establishment of new hospitals and healthcare facilities in key areas like Nassau and Grand Bahama. The introduction of a national health service in 2017, allowing voluntary enrollment for residents, has further enhanced the healthcare landscape. Remote workers applying for the BEATS program are strongly advised to invest in comprehensive health insurance with coverage in The Bahamas. Specifically tailored digital nomad travel insurance, addressing the unique aspects of a remote working lifestyle, is recommended for added peace of mind.