Yep, you can live in the Bahamas. It doesn’t just have to be a holiday fantasy.
It can be your reality.
What’s better than Caribbean paradise, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches?
Living in the Bahamas is as tropical and relaxing as you’d expect. Anyone would be lucky to call Paradise Island their home.
So, if you’re planning on moving there, here are some things you should know before relocating to the tropics:
1. Requirements for moving to the Bahamas
The best way to become a resident is to buy property in the Bahamas. This way, you can get a homeowners resident card. You could also get a permanent residency if you’ve legally been living or working there for over 20 consecutive years, married to a Bahamian national, or worked in a particular profession during a specific period.
Once you become a permanent resident, you can live and work in the Bahamas for as long as possible. However, you don’t have the right to vote. You will need to pay 100 BSD for your application. Getting citizenship is not necessarily easy, but it is possible, and the process is pretty straightforward. You can visit the Government of The Bahamas for more information.
2. The costs of living in the Bahamas
Compared to the US and Canada, the cost of living is much higher. One mainly moves to the island for the lifestyle, not to save any money. The price of the property is more than the average. It all depends on location and the type of housing. Utilities and expenses are costly, but there is no capital gains tax, income tax, or estate tax, which is a win!
Most products are imported, so groceries and eating out can be costly, but most expats earn an excellent salary to live comfortably enough.
Will you be heading back to the states to visit family and friends often? Then why not think about moving to the Out Islands (also known as the family islands), some of which are a stone’s throw away from Florida’s coast.
3. Get ready for a culture shock
Get used to living on island time; this may be quite an adjustment for some. They are incredibly laid-back when it comes to working, and everything tends to close by 10:00 pm. Everyone on the island is amiable and welcoming. Adjusting takes some time, but it will soon feel like home!
4. Employment opportunities in the Bahamas for expats
You can expect to be well-paid when working in the Bahamas. However, you will need to get yourself a work permit, as employers legally need to hire a Bahamian resident over an immigrant. Tourism is significant there. You can find lots of gamblers and luxury cruisers stopping in. So working in the hospitality industry or finance are great options.
4. Taxes in the Bahamas
The Bahamas is a tax haven, as they do not collect corporate tax, personal income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains tax. Necessities are exempt from taxation, and the value-added tax is relatively low. However, if you are a resident there, you will need to pay for health insurance with a VAT of 12%.
5. Work-life balance
The work-life balance is fantastic. Living on an island, every day is a holiday. The typical workday is 8 hours and about 40 hours a week, but since they live on “island time,” the hours tend to change.
You can also benefit from paid leave, maternity leave, and sick leave. You’ll have plenty of time to visit the Island’s must-see places, like the Lucayan National Park, Paradise Island, or dip in the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean.
6. The education system
Most classes at schools are taught in English, and they have international schools and public and private schools. Most schools are in Grand Bahama or New Providence. The Ministry of Education and Culture provides public schools, and they are free of charge.
Unfortunately, the quality of the public education system has gone down.
It may be a good idea to view all options. The international schools are in the capital Nassau. These are excellent schools and are accessible to all expats. Also, your children won’t struggle as English is the official language.
7. Motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road
The Bahamas is a former British colony, so they all drive on the left side of the road in the left-hand seat of the car. You can go with your American driver’s license, but you’ll need to get an international license when your stay exceeds 90 days.
8. Prepare for hurricanes
Most countries near and around the Caribbean Sea are at risk of tropical storms. Hurricane season is generally from the 1st of June till the 30th of November and can occur at other times. But they aren’t too prominent, so there is no need to worry.
9. You’ll have to get used to Island time
Bahamians are notorious for being late. They hardly start their day on time and take things very easy. But who wouldn’t? You live on a tranquil and relaxing island – there’s no need to rush. Rush hour and being fast-paced are foreign concepts on the island.
10. Be patient with government services
If you’re planning to immigrate to the Bahamas, you’ll almost certainly need to access government services at some stage.
Most national government offices are located in Nassau. However, the Bahamas also has a system of local government which includes 32 districts and 41 towns.
Whether you need immigration assistance, to apply for a driver’s license, a marriage license, or something completely different, make sure you are patient and give yourself plenty of time. Queues for government services are common, and even though you might think your question is relatively straightforward, the answer can sometimes be unexpectedly complex.
Whatever the case, try to be as prepared as possible before contacting or visiting a government office and remember that a polite attitude goes a long way!
11. An important tip: Tip!
Most of us are used to tipping for good service, but we don’t always tip if it’s slow service.
Throw that commonality out the door.
People expect a tip for practically anything and everything, whether it’s good service or not. The people are friendly, but be prepared to reward them for it.
12. Prepare for Potcakes – Stray dogs
Stray dogs are known as potcakes, and be prepared to see loads of them if you’re moving to the Bahamas, and I mean LOADS.
There’s a homeless dog problem on the island, and you’re sure to see them in poor and wealthy areas. This is because most dogs there haven’t been neutered or spayed. And sadly, many islanders don’t have the funds to take care of them.
13. Cash is king
Most people want to be paid in cash, especially in taxis. Some say it can even be a bit of a struggle to find ATMs there.
You’ll also find that certain businesses won’t accept credit cards, especially on the family islands. Their card machines tend to be down, so it’s highly recommended to always have cash on you.
14. Bahamian cuisine
The cuisine there is filled with unique flavors, and their staple is fish. Many of their delicacies include land crabs, fresh conch (pictured above as fritters), and rock lobsters. One local delicacy is boiled fish served with grits, and most of their dishes c0me with onions and spices, pigeon peas, and some rice with tomato. They also have their beer brands, Sands and Kalik.
What else?
Locals also enjoy sky juice; this is made with sweet milk, gin, and coconut water. They also have Switcha; a drink made using sugar, water, and native limes. All of the islands offer these delicious delicacies.
15. Getting around in the Bahamas
All Out Islands are connected by ferries to make it easy to get around. There are also some taxis and bus networks in the cities, and you may even be able to ride a bike in some.
They have over 20 airports. Due to its proximity, most Americans will fly to the Island’s International Airport.
16. Bahamian culture and traditions
Self-expression plays a big part in Bahamian culture, they do this through dance, art, and music, and they take a lot of pride in their culture. Music plays a significant role; all of the different islands play Caribbean calypso, African rhythms, and their traditional music called Goombay music.
Goombay music is made by beating a drum made of goatskin, and they practice it through dance and storytelling. They also have a cultural event called Junkanoo, a street parade filled with colorful costumes, dance, and music. They also love bush medicine, made from various indigenous plants.
17. Look out for the Lusca
Many people in the Bahamas believe in the mystical sea monster, the Lusca. There have been many reported sightings, especially in the blue holes.
The most famous sighting was in 1896 when a carcass of an enormous sea creature washed up on the beach. It is vast and has instilled fear in the locals for decades.
18. The crime rate in the Bahamas
The island paradise isn’t always bliss.
Similar to all major cities globally, more violent crimes generally occur in popular destinations such as Grand Bahama Island and New Providence island, especially armed robbery and cases of sexual assault.
Other islands like Exumas, Abacos, and Andros island are generally thought to be safer for permanent residents.
19. They have an excellent healthcare system
Their facilities are incredibly well-equipped, and the staff is highly trained and qualified. Their specialist and general medical care are up to a very high standard.
Children, pregnant women, civil servants, and senior citizens can benefit from free public and primary healthcare facilities. Their government funds the healthcare system, and they have worked hard to improve healthcare over the years.
20. Housing and accommodation in the Bahamas
There is a fair amount of accommodation and housing in the Bahamas. A lot of the properties there are owned by foreigners. There are beach houses, flats to rent, and more. However, rent is generally very high, and due to rough weather conditions, it is highly recommended you look for a sturdy and well-built house.
If you’re moving to the Bahamas for relaxation, it’d be wise to check out the Out Islands where the ‘paradise island’ vibe still exists but without the bustle of population found in the Grand Bahama Island.
Various estate agents can help, and moverDB.comis an excellent choice for moving all of your belongings over.
21. There’s a thriving community of foreign residents
There is a great sense of community among all expats on the island. Many foreigners support each other.
Many tourists help one another out when working, housing, and events. You won’t struggle to make relationships!
FAQs
Where do most expats live in the Bahamas?
Most expats live in Abaco, Grand Bahama Island, and New Providence Island.
Can you live on Paradise Island?
Yes, you can. But the cost of living there is exceptionally high as everything is imported.
What is the capital city of the Bahamas?
Nassau is the capital city, and New Providence Island can find it on the northeastern coast. The temperature is fantastic, and it boasts beautiful beaches.
What is New Providence Island best known for?
It is best known for its underwater sculpture garden. It is a beautiful sight, and visitors can snorkel around it in the crystal clear waters.
Final Thoughts
Moving to the Bahamas will be an adjustment, but the significant expat community will make it easier.
Can you think of anything better than a tropical lifestyle, great weather, and friendly people?
As with every country, there are pros and cons. But you can create the life you want and make the best of it. So pack those flip-flops, sunscreen, and costumes – you’re heading to the beach!
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