The Independent Means Visa (Permit to Reside) in the Bahamas offers residency to qualified individuals who can demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves without the need for employment in the country.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Independent Means Visa (Permit to Reside) program in the Bahamas provides a pathway to residency for financially self-sufficient individuals. This program is designed to attract retirees, investors, and other individuals looking to establish residency in a Caribbean paradise known for its stunning beaches, tax-friendly environment, and high standard of living.
Overview
A pathway to residency for qualified individuals with substantial financial means in the Bahamas
Eligibility Requirements
Sufficient financial resources to support yourself without employment in the Bahamas
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
Typically 1-3 years, renewable for up to 5 years
Months to Visa
3-4 months
Physical Presence Requirement
No specific requirement, but regular visits are expected
Availability
Easy
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application to the Department of Immigration in the Bahamas, typically through a local attorney.
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
What types of financial means qualify for the Independent Means Visa?
How often do I need to renew my residency permit?
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for Bahamian citizenship?
benefits
The program offers numerous advantages for individuals looking to establish their presence in the Bahamas' tropical paradise.
Tax-friendly environment
Beautiful island lifestyle
Proximity to US markets
Fast Processing Time
No minimum investment required
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Average monthly income requirement
Visa-Free Travel Countries
132
Passport Validity
10 years, 5 years for children
Overview
The Bahamas offers a high quality of life, tax benefits, and stunning natural beauty for foreign residents.
Benefits:
Advantages:
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
What types of financial means qualify for the Independent Means Visa?
How often do I need to renew my residency permit?
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for Bahamian citizenship?
REQUIREMENTS
Check if you qualify based on your family history
Not applicable
Prrof of residence ownership+Regular Income Stream: Monthly pension payments, Annuities, Proof of Financial Independence
Not applicable
Criminal Record: A clean criminal record is required
REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the Independent Means Visa (Permit to Reside), applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their financial stability and self-sufficiency.
PROCESS
Initial Assessment
• Verify passive income sources
• Confirm income thresholds
• Review healthcare requirements
• Complete financial documentation
Selection Phase
• Choose destination country
• Review residency requirements
• Assess tax implications
• Select optimal visa category
Application Preparation
• Gather proof of income
• Obtain health insurance
• Prepare bank statements
• Complete background verification
Submission
• Submit residency application
• Pay visa fees
• Schedule interview (if required)
• Provide biometric data
Residency Setup
• Receive residency permit
• Register with local authorities
• Set up banking/utilities
• Complete residency registration
PROCESS
DOCUMENTS
Passport
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Proof of property ownership in the Bahamas
A clean criminal record is required, confirmed through police clearance certificates from the applicant's country of origin and any country of residence in the past 5 years
Applicants must provide documentation proving they have sufficient financial means to support themselves in the Bahamas
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
Rankings
75
Overall Rank
Cost
Based on application fee
Residency Requirements
Based on residency requirements
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Residency Privileges Length
Based on programs’s term
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Processing Speed
Based on estimated processing time
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Eligibility Requirements
Based on entry requirements
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Program Stability
Based on years of activity
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Time to Permanent Residency
Based on permanent residency timeline
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Rankings
Safety
Cost of Living
2
Quality of Life
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Healthcare Quality
Internet Speed
79
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Human Freedom
41
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
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