Can foreigners buy in Bahamas?

There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in the Bahamas. Property purchasers are eligible for an annual Home Owners Resident Card, and those buying a property valued at $500,000 and above are given priority in permanent residence applications.



Yes, foreigners can absolutely buy property in The Bahamas, and the government actively encourages foreign investment through the International Persons Landholding Act. Non-Bahamians can purchase residential property of up to two acres without needing a prior permit; they simply need to register the purchase with the Foreign Investment Board afterwards. For properties larger than two acres, or those intended for commercial development or rental income, a permit must be obtained before the transaction is finalized. In 2026, the Bahamas remains a "tax-neutral" jurisdiction, meaning there are no income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes, though buyers must pay a "Value Added Tax" (VAT) on the property conveyance (typically 10% for properties over $100,000). To further entice buyers, those who invest at least $750,000 in Bahamian real estate are eligible to apply for Economic Permanent Residency, which streamlines entry and stay in the country.

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The Bahamas' favorable tax environment is another significant draw for property buyers, offering numerous advantages such as no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax. This tax-friendly atmosphere makes it an appealing destination for investors and those seeking to optimize their financial portfolios.

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The Bahamas offer immediate permanent residency status to investors who either buy a home for at least $750,000 or invest an amount of similar or greater magnitude in a local business that employs Bahamians. To maintain the permanent status, investors must spend at least 90 days each year in the Bahamas.

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Small supply and a large demand for Nassau real estate keeps prices higher than the Family Islands. Islands like Abaco, Eleuthera, Cat Island, Exuma and Long Island offer wonderful deals that are extremely affordable.

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Freedom to Live Your Way Unlike the fast-paced lives of the west, Bahamas is a pretty much peaceful country, so even those who like lying back for a while can have a great life here. Note that crime in Nassau is quite high, so keep this in mind when visiting or living in the city center.

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The Bahamas does have a high cost of living , which is a result of the country's imposition of high value-added taxes on groceries, furniture, appliances, and clothing. This isn't too much of an issue if you're planning to buy a vacation home but for those who want to buy a permanent home, it could be a factor.

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Property Tax is required by law in The Bahamas. The bill is due and payable once produced and must be paid by December 31 to avoid an additional 5% interest. Note: If a property is not up to date, it can be sold to recover the taxes owed. You may pay your Real Property Tax online using the go to service button.

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Tourist Visa Policy for the Bahamas The Bahamas Immigration authorities only require its visitors to offer an Immigration Form upon arrival, which is easy to complete. This document allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 3 months.

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Owning property in the Bahamas comes with numerous benefits, such as tax benefits, beautiful weather, and a stable economy, but also has its drawbacks, including limited land availability, high cost of living, and hurricane season.

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Retiring in the Bahamas offers a high standard of living, but the cost of living can be higher due to imported goods and consumption-based taxes. However, tax benefits on income, inheritance, gifts, and capital gains can offset the higher cost of living.

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A down payment (typically 10% of purchase price) is required upon the signing of the Sales Contract. Your agent will also speak with you regarding closing costs, namely Stamp Tax and legal fees.

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Famous faces are constantly on the paradise shores of The Bahamas, with the likes of Lenny Kravitz, Nick Cage and Mariah Carey all owning property there. It has also seen the likes of visitors such as Johnny Depp, Jennifer Aniston, Angela Bassett, Oprah Winfrey, Martha Stewart and Jennifer Hudson.

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