Complete Guide to Bahamas Residency by Investment 2025

Luxury Ocean Club Estates homes for sale in Bahamas - Premium real estate for residency by investment program


As a Luxury Real Estate and Bahamas residency by investment specialist with over 20 years of experience in Nassau real estate and Caribbean immigration law, I guide high-net-worth individuals through the Bahamas residency by investment program. The Commonwealth of the Bahamas offers one of the Caribbean's most attractive residency by investment schemes, combining offshore banking benefits, tax haven advantages, and proximity to major North American financial centers.

The Bahamas residency by investment program operates under the Immigration Act and provides qualified foreign nationals with permanent residency status through strategic real estate investment or business establishment. This economic citizenship program has attracted international investors seeking tax optimization, asset protection, offshore banking facilities, and enhanced global mobility through Caribbean residency.

What distinguishes Bahamas residency by investment from other Caribbean citizenship programs is the jurisdiction's sophisticated financial services sector, stable political environment, English common law system, and absence of direct taxation on worldwide income. Many Bahamas residency by investment participants achieve substantial tax savings, with persons reducing their annual tax liability by $200,000-$500,000 through proper offshore structuring and residency planning.

About Glenn Ferguson - Your Bahamas Residency by Investment Specialist

Glenn Ferguson - Licensed Bahamas real estate agent and residency by investment consultant with 25+ years experience in Nassau Caribbean properties

I'm Glenn Ferguson, and I've been specializing in Luxury Real Estate and Bahamas residency by investment for over 20 years. What started as real estate work evolved into becoming one of Nassau's leading Bahamas residency by investment consultant when wealthy clients kept asking me how to make the Bahamas their permanent home.

I've mastered every aspect of Bahamas residency by investment - from residency laws and Immigration procedures to offshore banking and international tax strategies. My expertise in Bahamas residency by investment has helped families successfully obtain their Bahamian residency through strategic luxury property investments.

The best part of being a Bahamas residency by investment consultant? Telling clients "Congratulations, your Bahamas residency by investment application has been approved!" That moment never gets old, and it's why I'm passionate about helping people through the Bahamas residency by investment process. Learn more about my background and expertise.

"After 20 years in Bahamas residency by investment, I've seen how this program transforms lives. The Bahamas residency by investment process isn't just about getting residency - it's about gaining financial freedom and a better quality of life." – Glenn Ferguson

Bahamas Residency by Investment Requirements & Costs

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What are the Bahamas residency by investment requirements?

For Bahamas residency by investment through real estate, you need a minimum $1.0 million USD investment (increased from $750K as of January 1, 2025). For Bahamas residency by investment via business, it's $500K but with additional requirements. Total Bahamas residency by investment costs including fees range from $1.05M-1.1M for most applicants.

Let me break down the Bahamas residency by investment costs clearly. Understanding Bahamas residency by investment requirements upfront helps you plan properly for this life-changing investment. Use our residency by investment calculator to estimate your total costs.

🏖️ Bahamas Residency by Investment - Real Estate Route

$1,000,000 USD minimum Most popular Bahamas residency by investment option (increased Jan 1, 2025)

This is the most popular Bahamas residency by investment path. You're essentially buying a vacation home that also qualifies you for Bahamas residency by investment benefits. Win-win!

I'll show you Bahamas residency by investment approved properties - from Cable Beach condos to Paradise Island resort residences. Every property I recommend meets Bahamas residency by investment program requirements.

🏢 Bahamas Residency by Investment - Business Route

$500,000 USD minimum Alternative Bahamas residency by investment path

This Bahamas residency by investment route requires starting a business that employs 5+ Bahamians. I will guide Bahamas residency by investment clients through the best restaurants, tech companies, and service businesses.

The business Bahamas residency by investment option involves more government interaction but can be very rewarding for entrepreneurs seeking Bahamas residency by investment.

Complete Bahamas Residency by Investment Cost Breakdown

Here's every cost involved in the Bahamas residency by investment process. I believe in transparency about Bahamas residency by investment expenses from day one. Learn more about Bahamas property taxes and other ownership costs.

Bahamas Residency by Investment Cost Amount (USD) Purpose
Government Processing Fee (without work rights) $20,000 Required for all Economic Permanent Residence applications
Government Processing Fee (with work rights) $25,000 For those wanting to work in their own business
Application Processing Fee $200 Non-refundable processing fee per application
Professional Services (Glenn's fees) Negotiable Complete Bahamas residency by investment guidance
Property VAT 10% of purchase price VAT on real estate transactions over $100K (shared 50/50 buyer/seller)
10-Year Holding Requirement N/A Investment must be maintained for minimum 10 years

That 10% VAT is significant, but remember - with Bahamas residency by investment, you're buying freedom from worldwide income taxes. Most Bahamas residency by investment clients recover this cost through tax savings within 2-3 years. Also important: you must hold your investment property for at least 10 years to maintain your residency status. Browse our waterfront homes for sale that qualify for the program.

The different flavors of Bahamian residency

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So the government's got a few different options depending on what you're looking for. Think of it like ordering at a restaurant - they've got something for everyone. Learn more about Bahamas permanent residency options.

🏡 Annual Residence Permit

The "dipping your toes in" option

Good for 1 year, renewable forever. Perfect if you want to test the waters first or you're one of those people who just can't commit to anything permanent (I see you! 😄)

You gotta be here at least 90 days a year - which honestly, if you can't manage 3 months in paradise, what are we even doing here? Check out vacation homes in the Bahamas for your annual stays.

🌴 Permanent Residence (My favorite!)

The "I'm all in" option

This is what most of my clients go for. You get to live and work here permanently, and after 5 years you can apply for citizenship. It's like the VIP pass to island life.

Plus, the government reviews it every 5 years, but honestly, as long as you're not causing trouble (and why would you in paradise?), it's pretty much automatic renewal. Explore luxury Bahamas real estate perfect for permanent residents.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Homeowner's Residence Card

The "property owner special"

This one's newer and pretty sweet. If you own property worth over $1M, you get this special 5-year card. It's got some nice perks and makes renewals easier.

Think of it as the government's way of saying "thanks for investing in our little slice of paradise!" Browse properties for sale in the Bahamas that qualify.

How I actually get this done for you

Okay, so you're thinking "this sounds great Glenn, but how does this actually work?" Fair question! I've done this dance hundreds of times, so let me walk you through it. For a comprehensive overview, read our complete guide to buying property in the Bahamas.

  1. We chat (the fun part!)

    First, we hop on a call and I figure out what you're really looking for. Some folks want a beachfront condo, others want to start a business. Some just want to escape taxes (totally legal, by the way!). There's no wrong answer here.

  2. I show you the good stuff

    Based on what you told me, I'll put together a list of properties or business opportunities that make sense. I've been doing this long enough to know which developments are solid and which ones... well, let's just say I'll steer you away from the duds. Check out my curated selection of Ocean Club Estates homes for sale and Albany Bahamas real estate.

  3. Paperwork party (okay, not really a party)

    Here's where things get a bit tedious. We need background checks from everywhere you've lived, financial statements, medical exams, birth certificates - basically everything except your kindergarten report card. Don't worry, I've got a checklist. Learn about the 10 easy steps to buying property in the Bahamas.

  4. Money moves

    Once we've found your perfect property or business, we set up the purchase through escrow. I work with some really solid lawyers here who make sure everything's done right. Nobody wants surprises when you're moving this kind of money around.

  5. Government time

    I personally walk your application over to Immigration. Yeah, I know the people there pretty well after 20+ years. Sometimes that personal touch helps move things along a bit faster (wink wink).

  6. The waiting game

    This is the part nobody likes - waiting for government approval. Usually takes 3-6 months. The background checks take the longest because they're checking with Interpol and all that. I keep tabs on your file and bug them if things slow down too much.

  7. Welcome to the club!

    When approval comes through, we schedule a time for you to come down and get your residency card. I like to be there for this part - seeing people get their cards never gets old!

  8. The after-party (ongoing support)

    My job doesn't end when you get your card. Need help setting up a bank account? I know the bankers. Want to start planning for citizenship? I've got the timeline. Property management issues? I've got guys for that too.

How long does this whole thing take?

From our first chat to you holding your residency card? Usually 6-12 months. Could be faster if you've got all your documents ready and the property purchase goes smoothly. Could be longer if you're one of those people who takes forever to make decisions (you know who you are! 😄). Read about buying real estate in the Bahamas in 2024.

The tax situation (aka the really good news!)

Okay, this is my favorite part to talk about because this is where the Bahamas really shines. You ready for this? Learn more about Bahamas tax benefits for homeowners.

🚫 Our beautiful tax-free paradise

Here's what you won't be paying as a Bahamian resident:

❌ Personal Income Tax

That's right - ZERO income tax on your worldwide income

❌ Capital Gains Tax

Sell your stocks, crypto, whatever - keep it all

❌ Inheritance Tax

Your kids will thank you (and so will their kids)

❌ Wealth Tax

Be as wealthy as you want - we won't penalize you for it!

Now, I'm not a tax advisor (that's what CPAs are for), but I can tell you what I've seen with my clients. I had this one couple from California - between state and federal taxes, they were paying about 45% of their income in taxes. Down here? Just whatever they earn from local Bahamian sources, which for most retirees is... well, nothing. Read about living in the Bahamas pros and cons.

Some quick tax math (don't worry, I'll keep it simple)

Let's say you're making $500K a year and paying 40% in taxes back home. That's $200K going to the government annually. Over 10 years? That's $2 million you're giving away. Suddenly that $1M investment doesn't look so expensive, does it?

Of course, you'll still need to file taxes in your home country (can't escape everything!), but many countries have tax treaties with us that help reduce double taxation. Plus, there are legal ways to structure your affairs to maximize the benefits - but that's where you'll want to talk to a good international tax attorney.

Tax Type Bahamas USA UK Canada
Income Tax 0% Up to 37% Up to 45% Up to 33%
Capital Gains 0% Up to 20% Up to 28% Up to 25%
Inheritance Tax 0% Up to 40% Up to 40% 0%

Getting your Bahamian passport (the ultimate goal!)

When can I become a "real" Bahamian?

After 5 years of permanent residency, you can apply for citizenship. It's one of the faster citizenship programs in the Caribbean, and that Bahamian passport gets you visa-free travel to over 155 countries. Not too shabby! Learn about Bahamas citizenship by investment.

Alright, so you've been living the island life for 5 years, you've got your conch fritters recipe down pat, and you're ready to make it official. Here's what the citizenship journey looks like:

What you get with that shiny new passport

🌍 Travel like a boss

That Bahamian passport opens doors to 155+ countries without needing a visa. Europe, UK, Canada - just show up and they wave you through. It's pretty sweet.

Plus, you're part of the Commonwealth, which comes with some nice perks when traveling to other Commonwealth countries.

🏛️ Full rights and responsibilities

You can vote, run for office (Prime Minister Ferguson has a nice ring to it!), and own any property you want - including those beachfront lots that are usually restricted to citizens only.

You also get to complain about the government like a true Bahamian! 😄 Check out properties available to citizens in Lyford Cay.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family legacy stuff

Your kids automatically become Bahamian citizens, and their kids, and so on. It's like a gift that keeps on giving.

Plus, the Bahamas allows dual citizenship, so you don't have to give up your original passport. Best of both worlds!

The citizenship application process (I help with this too!)

After your 5 years are up, here's what we need to tackle:

There's a citizenship test (don't worry, it's not rocket science), proof that you can speak English (if you're reading this, you're probably fine), and we need to show that you've been a good citizen - no criminal activity, paying your bills, that sort of thing.

I've helped tons of folks through this process. The key is starting early - like 6 months before your 5-year mark. The government appreciates preparation, and it shows you're serious about making the Bahamas your permanent home.

The questions everyone asks (and my honest answers)

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How much do I really need to invest?
$1M for real estate (increased from $750K in 2025), plus about $50-75K in fees and costs. So budget around $1.1M total to be safe. Yeah, it's not cheap, but remember - you're basically buying a lifetime tax exemption plus a really nice place to live. Browse homes for sale in the Bahamas that qualify for the program.
Can my family come too?
Your spouse and kids under 18 are automatically included - no extra investment needed. Kids between 18-25 can be included if they're students. Each family member pays their own application processing fees though ($200 each).
What if I hate it and want to leave?
Honestly? In 20+ years, I've had maybe 3 people decide the Bahamas wasn't for them. But if you do want to leave, you still own your property and can sell it (after the 10-year holding period). You just lose the residency status - no big legal complications. Read about the benefits of owning property in the Bahamas even without residency.
Do I really save money on taxes?
For most high earners, absolutely. I've had clients save $200K+ per year in taxes. But tax situations are complicated - you'll definitely want to talk to an international tax attorney before making any big moves. Learn about tax-free living and residency options.
Can I work in the Bahamas?
With permanent residency, you can get the version with work rights for an extra $5K fee ($25K vs $20K). You can work or start a business. Annual permit holders need separate work authorization, but I can help you get that sorted out.
What about healthcare?
Healthcare here is decent for routine stuff, but most of my wealthy clients keep international health insurance or travel to the US for major medical issues. We're only 45 minutes to Miami by plane, so it's not a big deal.
How often do I need to be in the Bahamas?
Minimum 90 days per year to keep your residency. But honestly, once you're here for 3 months, you'll probably want to stay longer. I've never had anyone complain about spending too much time in paradise! Check out the best places to live in the Bahamas.
What about hurricanes?
Yeah, they happen. Usually August through October. Most of my clients just travel during hurricane season - great time to visit family up north or take that European vacation. Plus, modern building codes here are pretty solid.

Premium Communities for Residency Investment

Not all properties qualify for the residency program, and not all qualifying properties are created equal. Here are my top recommendations for Bahamas residency by investment through luxury real estate:

🏖️ Ocean Club Estates

The crown jewel of Paradise Island. Home to Four Seasons Ocean Club residences and some of the most exclusive real estate in the Caribbean.

Browse Ocean Club Estates homes for sale starting at $2M+.

🏌️ Albany Bahamas

World-class golf community with an exclusive marina. Tiger Woods has played here, and the luxury amenities are second to none.

Explore Albany Bahamas real estate for sale and the unique Honeycomb Albany development.

🏨 Baha Mar Residences

Luxury resort living with multiple branded residences including Rosewood Baha Mar residences and Grand Hyatt Baha Mar residences.

View all Baha Mar residences for sale.

🌊 Goldwynn Resort & Residences

Cable Beach's newest luxury development with exclusive penthouses and resort amenities.

Discover Goldwynn Bahamas for sale options.

🏖️ Aqualina Bahamas

Beachfront luxury on Cable Beach with stunning ocean views and world-class amenities.

Browse Aqualina Bahamas residences and Aqualina beachfront condos.

🏡 Palm Cay

Master-planned community with marina, golf course, and luxury homes. Perfect for families seeking the complete Bahamian lifestyle.

Explore Palm Cay Bahamas homes for sale.

🌴 Ready to make the move?

Look, I get it - this is a huge decision. Maybe the biggest one you'll ever make. But here's the thing... I've been helping people navigate this exact journey for over two decades, and I've never seen anyone regret choosing the Bahamas lifestyle.

How about we start with a simple conversation? No commitment, no pressure - just you, me, and an honest discussion about whether this makes sense for your situation. I promise I'll give you the straight scoop, good and bad.

Read more about navigating residency in the Bahamas with Glenn Ferguson and why I'm considered your choice for luxury Bahamas real estate.

🔒 Everything we discuss stays between us • 🚀 No pushy sales tactics • ✅ Just honest advice from someone who actually lives here