Permit to Reside (Annual Permit) — 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
• Applicant’s original medical certificate (dated no earlier than 30 days)
• Applicant’s original police certificate (issued not earlier than 6 months, covering 5 years; applicants age 14 and older)
• Two current passport photographs of applicant (on white background, with name printed on back)
• VALID copy of biographical page of applicant’s passport (min 2 months validity)
• Copy of biographical page of sponsor’s passport (min 2 months validity)
• Certified copy of applicant’s marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Certified copy of applicant’s birth certificate showing parents’ names (if applicable)
• Two character references from reputable persons (with contacts)
• Reference from applicant’s financial institution or CPA statement (adults/independent applicants)
• Copy of conveyance for Bahamian residential property (adults only, if applicable)
• Completed Annual Permit Questionnaire

Who can apply

Open to all nationalities.

How to apply

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