Work Permit (New) — requirements, costs & how to apply

Who is eligible

Costs

Duration & renewal

Initial stay: 12 months.

Documents

• Letter of Request addressed to the Director of Immigration
• Duly completed First Schedule Form 1 application with $10.00 Bahamian postage stamp affixed and notarized
• Applicant’s original medical certificate (dated not earlier than 30 days before submission)
• Applicant’s original police certificate (issued not earlier than six months and must cover five years of residence; required for applicants 14 years old and over)
• Two passport photographs (white background, name printed on back, 2x2 inches, taken within six months)
• Copy of applicant’s current passport (with minimum two months validity)
• Copy of Employer/Sponsor’s current passport (if employer is non-Bahamian, evidence of immigration status required)
• Labour Certificate with Notification of Vacancy from Department of Labour-Bahamas
• Nationally circulated newspaper advertisements (three consecutive days)
• Two written references from previous employers (with contact information)
• Letter of release from previous employer (if applicable)
• Copy of valid Business License, Certificate of Incumbency or Certificate of Incorporation of Employer/Sponsor
• Copy of Employer/Sponsor’s National Insurance Card/Certificate

How to apply

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
2. Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.immigration.gov.bs/residence/annual-work-permit.
3. Typical processing: ~84 days.