Permanent Residence — Long-Stay Worker (10–20 years on work permit) — requirements, costs & how to apply

Who is eligible

Costs

Duration & renewal

Citizenship possible after 10 years.

Documents

• Letter of request addressed to the Director of Immigration
• Duly completed application form with Bahamian $10.00 postage stamp affixed thereon (legible & notarized)
• Applicant’s original medical certificate (dated not earlier than 30 days before submission of the application. Required for every applicant)
• Applicant’s original police certificate (issued not earlier than six (6) months and must cover five years of residence; required of applicants 14 years old and older)
• Two (2) current passport photographs of the applicant on white background with name printed on the back of the photo (captured within six (6) months of application date; photo size must be 2 X 2 inches)
• Copy of the biographical data page of applicant’s current passport (must be signed and readable with minimum of two (2) months validity)
• Copy of biographical data page of spouse’s passport (must be signed and readable with two (2) months validity) [if applicable]
• Copy of biographical data page of child(ren)’s passport (must be signed and readable with two (2) months validity) [if applicable]
• Original birth certificate of the applicant (English translations and Bahamian $10.00 postage stamps affixed thereon) with the verification by the Consulate and authentication of the signature by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Two (2) character references from reputable persons or persons of good standing in the applicant’s community (please provide telephone contacts and email addresses along with the biographical page of passport)
• Original birth certificate for applicant’s spouse
• Original birth certificates for applicant’s children (if applicable)
• Certified copy of marriage certificate (English translations and Bahamian $10.00 postage stamp affixed thereon; if applicable)
• Copy of any Naturalization for spouse (if applicable)
• Deed Poll (if applicable) (registered at Registrar General’s Office)
• Proof of current immigration status (Work Permit/Permit to Reside, etc.)
• Death Certificate/ divorce decree (if applicable)
• Documentary proof of payment of Real Property Tax (if applicable)
• Copy of conveyance for residential property(ies) owned by the applicant in The Bahamas (if applicable)
• School letters (where applicable)
• Documentary proof of Adoption (registered at Registrar General’s Department) [if applicable]

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/permanent-residence/.