Does Economic Permanent Residency include the right to work?

Standard EPRs are typically without the right to work unless specifically endorsed. Glenn will advise based on your situation.

Bahamas Residency by Investment (2025)

Name: Glenn Ferguson — Bahamas Real Estate Agent & Residency Consultant
Address: Nassau, New Providence, BS
Telephone: +1-242-395-8495
Price range: $$$$

Why the Bahamas is the best destination visual — Why The Bahamas: tax-free haven, stable common-law jurisdiction, and nonstop access from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

Why the Bahamas Is the Ultimate Tax-Free Haven

The Bahamas offers zero personal income, capital gains, and inheritance taxes, political stability, common-law legal frameworks, and direct flights from major U.S. and global hubs.

Benefit	Bahamas	United States	United Kingdom
Personal Income Tax	0%	Up to 37%	Up to 45%
Capital Gains Tax	0%	Up to 20%	Up to 20%
Inheritance/Estate Tax	0%	Up to 40%	Up to 40%

When you’re investing in the Bahamas, it’s about more than property—it’s about peace of mind. I’ll confirm current requirements and guide you end-to-end.

Residency Pathways at a Glance

Economic Permanent Residency (EPR)

Minimum qualifying investment: USD $1,000,000 (effective 2025). Grants the right to reside in The Bahamas; pathway to a Homeowner’s Card and long-term stability. Investment should generally be maintained for at least 10 years.

Priority / Accelerated Consideration

USD $1,500,000+ purchases commonly receive priority/accelerated consideration. (Timelines are policy-based; no guaranteed number of days.)

Annual Residency Permit

Suitable for renters or buyers below the EPR threshold. Does not confer the same permanence or work rights as EPR.

Also discussed with clients: the zero-coupon bond alternative for residency by investment, and where appropriate, exchange control approvals via the Central Bank of The Bahamas.

Ask for a personalized residency plan See qualifying areas →

Step-by-Step Residency Process

1) Select a qualifying property. I verify current thresholds, HOA rules, and zoning before you sign.

2) Prepare documentation. Police certificate, financial statements, passport copies, references.

3) Submit EPR application. Filed with the Bahamas Department of Immigration with supporting evidence.

4) Government review. Timelines vary from several months; many cases fall in ~6–18 months. Priority files may move faster.

5) Approval & certificate. Receive your residency certificate and Homeowner’s Card as applicable.

I will verify current investment thresholds, document lists, and processing timelines with the Bahamas Department of Immigration before contracts are signed.

Ocean Club Four Seasons Residences Bahamas — Ocean Club, Paradise Island — blue-chip, EPR-friendly address with world-class amenities.

Best Islands & Properties for Fast Approval

Paradise Island

Ocean Club Residences & Marina (Four Seasons), One Ocean—blue-chip addresses with world-class amenities.

Cable Beach

Goldwynn, Aqualina, One Cable Beach—luxury beachfront condos with strong rental appeal.

Eleuthera & Harbour Island

High-end villas and boutique developments; compelling long-term appreciation and rental demand.

Explore listings: Goldwynn Penthouses · Aqualina Residences · One Cable Beach · Current listings (Bahamas MLS)

Request a VIP Property Match Run the ROI numbers →

Rental Income & ROI Calculator

Enter basic assumptions to estimate potential gross income and a simple cash-on-cash figure.

Purchase Price (USD) Equity / Cash Invested (USD) Average Nightly Rate (USD) Occupancy (%) Operating Expense Ratio (% of revenue)

Enter values and click Calculate.

This is a simplified illustration. I’ll run a full pro-forma with financing, HOA, insurance, exchange control, and management assumptions for you.

Fast-Track Tips From Glenn

Pre-qualify with Bahamian banks (or verify proof of funds) before shopping.
Choose developments with strong governance and a track record of approvals.
Consider multi-unit or branded residences that qualify and generate reliable rental income.
Align closing dates with application milestones to compress timelines.

Book Your Free Strategy Call See common questions →

FAQs

Can I finance my property and still qualify?

Yes—many clients use financing. Your equity and the purchase value must meet the current residency threshold.

Do I have to live in the Bahamas full-time?

No. Many residents split time across countries. Maintain ownership and good standing.

What happens if I sell the qualifying property?

Replace it with another qualifying property to maintain your status. I’ll outline timing and options.

How long does the process take?

Timelines vary from several months; many cases fall in ~6–18 months. Purchases of $1.5M+ may receive priority consideration.

Does EPR include the right to work?

Standard EPRs are typically without the right to work unless specifically endorsed. I’ll advise based on your situation.

Is there a minimum holding period?

Plan to maintain the qualifying investment for at least 10 years to remain aligned with policy expectations.

Can non-U.S. citizens apply for EPR via real estate?

Yes. EPR is available to eligible foreign buyers regardless of nationality. Requirements apply consistently for non-Bahamian purchasers.

Does EPR allow me to work or start a business?

Not by default. EPR is typically without the right to work unless specially endorsed; separate work permits or approvals may be required.

Do I need Central Bank exchange control approval?

Foreign currency purchases and repatriation often involve the Central Bank’s exchange control framework. I coordinate with your attorney to ensure compliance.

Goldwynn Bahamas for sale — Goldwynn, Cable Beach — luxury beachfront condos with strong rental appeal; useful for cash-on-cash strategies.

Compare Your Residency Options

Annual Residency vs EPR (Property-Based)

Annual Residency: Lower bar; renewals required; no permanence or work rights.
EPR via Real Estate: $1M+ qualifying purchase; long-term status; typically no work rights unless endorsed.

Ask which path fits you →

EPR Real Estate vs Zero-Coupon Bond