Student Permit (Permit to Reside — full-time student) — requirements, costs & how to apply

Who is eligible

Costs

Duration & renewal

Initial stay: 12 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.

Documents

• Letter of request addressed to the Director of Immigration
• Duly completed First Schedule Form 1 application with $10.00 Bahamian postage stamp affixed thereon (legible and notarized)
• Applicant’s original medical certificate (dated no earlier than 30 days of the application being submitted)
• Applicant’s original police certificate issued not earlier than six (6) months and must cover five years of residence; required for applicants age of 14 and older
• Two (2) current passport photographs of applicant on white background with name printed on back of photo (captured within six (6) months of application photo size must be 2 X 2 inches)
• VALID copy of biographical page of passport for applicant (must be signed and readable with minimum (2) months validity)
• Copy of biographical page of passport for sponsor (must be signed and readable with minimum two (2) months validity)
• Certified copy of marriage certificate of applicant (if applicable)
• Certified copy of birth certificate of applicant showing parents’ names (if applicable)
• Two (2) character references from reputable persons or persons of good standing in applicant’s community (please provide telephone contacts and email addresses)
• Reference from applicant’s financial institution(s) stating a figure range and/or statement prepared by a Certified Public Accountant (adults/independent applicants)
• Copy of conveyance for residential property(ies) owned by applicant in The Bahamas (adults only and if applicable)
• Complete the Annual Permit Questionnaire
• Letter confirming applicant’s enrollment in a school in The Bahamas (for children)
• Legal Court document granting custody or guardianship of applicant to sponsor (for children not accompanied by their parents)
• Certified copy of parents birth certificates (for children not accompanied by their parents)
• Evidence of legal custody of applicant is required from the accompanying parent/guardian (if children are not accompanied by both parents)
• Proof of registration with the Ministry of Education for home schooled children

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: ~12 days.